- English translation
If you come upon a blind man, strike him and take the food from his chest pocket; you cannot be more merciful than his Lord.
- Literal wording
If you see a blind person, hit him and take his supper from his breast pocket; you are not more merciful than his Lord.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying reflects the belief that disability is a condition a person deserves and that it therefore need not awaken pity. Its violent commands press the claim that divine judgment, rather than human compassion, determines the sufferer’s lot.
It presents a fatalistic, stigmatizing view of disabled people, treating impairment as evidence against the person who has it. The expression thus rationalizes indifference by portraying mercy as presumptuous beside God’s supposed decision.
- When it is used
Best treated as an object of analysis when examining fatalistic attitudes toward disability or how harsh sayings justify withholding compassion. Quote it only with clear critical framing, and avoid casual repetition, because its violent and degrading imagery can cause harm regardless of intent.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: If you come upon a blind man, strike him and take the food from his chest pocket; you cannot be more merciful than his Lord.