ProverbHub
Arabic · Arabic scriptProverb: Verified

«سَاعَهْ لْقَلْبَكْ وِسَاعَه لْرَبَّكْ»

Meanings

Each meaning is reviewed on its own.

Meaning: Verified
English translation

Set aside some time for your own enjoyment, and some time for God.

Literal wording

An hour for your heart, and an hour for your Lord.

Meaning and lesson

The saying recommends moderation by dividing one's time between two legitimate needs: personal ease and cheer through rest and recreation, and devotion to God through prayer and worship. "Hour" means a share of time, not a literal hour or fixed schedule, and "heart" here means lightheartedness, not romantic feeling. Neither side should swallow the other.

It can work in both directions, either defending a well-earned break for someone who is overly strict with themselves, or nudging a person caught up in diversion back toward their religious obligations. It does not dismiss religious duty, nor does it license anything at all in one's free time.

When it is used

Fits moments when someone is being urged to balance devotion and enjoyment, such as reassuring a person who feels guilty about relaxing or gently reminding someone absorbed in amusement to make room for worship.

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