Egyptian proverbs
A goose’s child is a swimmerMeaning: Like father, like son.
A monkey is a gazelle in its mother’s eyes.
Meaning: People are not objective when it comes to themselves and their family.
An absent person has his excuse.
Meaning: Don't blame someone for not being here until you hear him/her out.
Bathe her and then look at her.
Meaning: Look at a girl without makeup and hairdo to see if she’s really pretty.
Be patient with a bad neighbor. Maybe he’ll leave or a disaster will take him out.
Meaning: Take your time before getting into fights you can avoid.
Borrowing is bad, and paying back is always a loss.
Meaning: Obvious
Cover your candle, it will light more.
Meaning: Be cautious! Don’t brag about what you have.
Dress up a stick and it’ll be a doll.
Meaning: Don't be fooled by women’s appearances; look deeper.
He who couldn't overcome the donkey took on the saddle.
Meaning: Said of people who don’t face their match and pick on the weak instead.
He whose house is made out of glass, doesn’t throw stones at people.
Meaning: Think of the repercussions before taking actions; you may be more liable to get harmed.
If your friend is (like) honey, don't lick it all.
Meaning: Don’t abuse people’s generosity towards you.
If you marry a monkey for his wealth, the money goes and the monkey remains.
Meaning: Don’t get married to people for their money; it won’t bring you happiness.
Knowledge is in the head, not the copybook.
Meaning: Thinking is more important than just getting knowledge from books.
News that’s for money today will be for free tomorrow.
Meaning: Obvious
Stretch your legs as far as your quilt goes.
Meaning: Don’t do what’s beyond your capabilities. Don’t buy what you cannot afford.
This cub is from that lion.
Meaning: Like father, like son.
Those who had some shame are dead.
Meaning: People don’t have boundaries anymore.
What comes easily is lost easily.
Meaning: Obvious
When I hear you, I believe you. When I see what you do, I’m surprised.
Meaning: You speak reason yet you do weird stuff that contradicts it.
When the Angels arrive, the devils leave.
Meaning: Said when people leave upon others’ arrival.