- English translation
The jar went hunting for its own lid and finally found it.
- Literal wording
The big jar searched around for its lid, until it came upon it.
- Meaning and lesson
A large earthenware jar is pictured looking for the one cover that sits properly on its mouth, and the search ends only when that cover turns up. Jar and lid are made for each other, so the image is about a natural fit between two parts.
The point is a search rewarded: whatever was seeking its proper match has now reached it. The image alone does not show whether the pairing is welcomed or noted with a dry smile, so either reading stays open, depending on the speaker and the situation.
- When it is used
Suitable for remarking that a search has ended with something meeting the counterpart that suits it. Because the tone may be warm or wry, let the surrounding situation show which is meant rather than assuming either praise or mockery.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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