- 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.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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