- English translation
If someone does not value me highly, I will not give them even the smallest respect.
- Literal wording
Whoever does not take me as kohl in his eye, I will not take as a sandal on my foot.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying calls for esteem to be returned in kind. Someone who withholds proper regard should not expect honor or regard from the person they slight.
Its force comes from an extreme contrast between being cherished like kohl for the eye and being treated as worn footwear beneath the foot. The footwear comparison is deliberately disparaging, expressing a firm refusal to accept one-sided respect.
- When it is used
Used to insist that respect must be mutual: someone who does not treat the speaker with esteem will not receive esteem in return. Its intentionally harsh comparison makes it best suited to a forceful rejection of unequal regard.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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