- English translation
He can raise the one laid low and topple the one who stands tallest.
- Literal wording
He raises up the flattened thing and knocks down the high tower.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that God's power has no limits: He can lift up someone worn down by illness to extreme weakness and close to death, and just as easily bring down someone healthy, strong, and proud. The images describe people, not buildings, and neither condition is permanent.
In practice it offers hope to the very sick and their families while warning the strong against arrogance. Fortunes can reverse without warning, so present vigor guarantees nothing, and present frailty need not mean the end.
- When it is used
Suitable when someone gravely ill unexpectedly recovers, or a robust person suddenly falls ill or dies. It can caution against judging fate by present strength, especially where divine will is acknowledged. Applied to a healthy person's possible downfall, it may sound like ill-wishing, so tone and setting matter.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: He can raise the one laid low and topple the one who stands tallest.