«اِبْنِ الحَاكِم يَتِيمْ»

The “son” is someone whose position depends on a ruler’s favor rather than on his own ability. If that patron loses power, the dependent may lose the support that sustained him.

The proverb warns against relying on another person’s authority as a substitute for competence and self-reliance. A powerful connection can seem secure while it lasts, yet leave its beneficiary exposed when circumstances change.

It could be used to caution someone whose prospects rest chiefly on a powerful patron, especially when a change in leadership might leave that person unable to manage independently.