- English translation
You who are sitting comfortably, may you be kept safe from the trouble that is on its way.
- Literal wording
O you who are sitting, may [God] spare you the evil of those who are coming.
- Meaning and lesson
The saying is a wish of protection directed at people who are already present and at ease. It asks that they be shielded from whatever harm a particular approaching party is expected to bring. The arrival is treated as a likely source of trouble before anything has actually happened.
In use, the expression marks the approaching people as unwelcome or dangerous and alerts those present to stay on guard. It can work as a mock blessing or a sly aside, signalling suspicion of the newcomers without openly accusing them of anything.
- When it is used
Say it to people who are settled and comfortable when you see particular people approaching who are likely to cause trouble. It works as a half-joking blessing or a quiet warning, but it judges the newcomers, so saying it within their hearing could give offence.
- Register
- colloquial
Cite or copy proverb
How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
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