- English translation
There's no running away from what is fated.
- Literal wording
The written thing, there is no fleeing from it.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying holds that whatever has been destined for a person will reach them no matter what they do. 'The written' means fate as already recorded, not a physical document, so efforts to dodge it are futile, and the wise response is to accept what arrives rather than flee it.
In practice it serves as a formula of resignation and comfort, carrying a strong religious sense of predetermined fate. People use it to frame loss, accidents, or surprising outcomes as unavoidable rather than as personal failures, easing regret.
- When it is used
Said after a misfortune or unexpected turn to accept the outcome calmly, or to discourage straining against circumstances beyond control. It consoles, but may sound dismissive to someone still hoping to change things.
- Register
- Colloquial
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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