- English translation
He comes bearing Kulayb's head.
- Literal wording
Having brought Kulayb's head.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying points at a person who makes a show of something weighty he has done. His pride is out in the open, and the expression fixes attention on that display of satisfaction over a significant act he has performed.
This display is not framed as hollow bragging. The person in question already enjoys a familiar reputation for strength and for the good that comes from it, so his boasting sits on top of standing that others recognize.
- When it is used
Fits remarks about someone openly savoring a weighty achievement of his own, where listeners already know his reputation. Reserve it for pride tied to a real deed by someone of recognized standing; it is not meant for empty boasting or idle braggarts with nothing to show.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: He comes bearing Kulayb's head.