- English translation
Like the Bedouin who shouts, 'Camels in front of you, camels behind you!' when he is leading only one.
- Literal wording
Like the Bedouin who says: your face and the camels, your back and the camels.
- Meaning and lesson
The image is of a Bedouin herder driving just one camel down a road. He yells warnings to passersby to clear the way in front and behind, as though a great herd were about to strike their faces or backs. All the commotion hides how little he actually has.
The saying targets people who swell with self-importance and brag. They talk up modest means or minor accomplishments so that others will picture something grand. Its humor relies on the Bedouin as a stock figure of exaggeration, which can read as a stereotype rather than a fair portrayal.
- When it is used
Use it to tease or criticize someone who makes a big show of small resources, achievements, or influence, when their noise far exceeds what they have. It suits informal, mocking remarks. Its Bedouin figure is a stock comic stereotype, so use it with care.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: Like the Bedouin who shouts, 'Camels in front of you, camels behind you!' when he is leading only one.