- English translation
The one who prepares before the appointed time will not be caught unready.
- Literal wording
Whoever performs ablution before the time overtakes it.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying praises foresight: preparing for an obligation before its deadline gives a person control when the moment arrives. Readiness prevents delay, confusion, and the risk of missing what must be done.
Its image draws on Islamic ritual practice, referring to ablution in readiness for prayer. More broadly, it commends the prudent person who prepares early rather than waiting for urgency to force action.
- When it is used
Use it to approve early preparation or advise planning ahead for a deadline, meeting, journey, or other expected obligation. Its religious image can make it especially apt when timely observance or disciplined readiness is being emphasized.
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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