- English translation
In the time it takes for the palm stalks to be cut, God may do whatever He wills.
- Literal wording
Until the palm stalks are cut, God does what He wills.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying points to the gap between dreading something and actually facing it. Since the feared event still lies some way off, the interval leaves room for an unexpected turn, and God may alter the situation entirely before it arrives.
In practice it works as gentle consolation: there is no use suffering in advance over a threat that has not yet come. The speaker urges patience and trust, implying that the present danger might dissolve or change shape while time passes.
- When it is used
Say it to someone anxious about a feared outcome that has not yet arrived, reminding them that time still remains and that God may change matters before the dreaded moment comes.
- Register
- Colloquial Arabic
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: In the time it takes for the palm stalks to be cut, God may do whatever He wills.