Every language carries wisdom passed down through generations, and Lebanese Arabic is no different. Proverbs (amthal 7ikmiyeh) are short, punchy sayings that reveal how people think, live, and laugh.
In Lebanon, proverbs are used in daily conversations, from grandparents scolding kids to friends joking about life. Learning them not only boosts your Lebanese Arabic but also gives you insight into Lebanese humor, values, and way of thinking.
Here are 10 of the most famous Lebanese proverbs, explained in Arabic, transliteration, English, and cultural context.
1. إيد وحدي ما بتزقف – Iid wa7de ma btza2f
One hand can’t clap.
👉 Meaning: You can’t achieve much alone, teamwork matters.
💡 Usage: When someone tries to do everything without help.
2. كل ديك ع مزبلتو صيّاح – Kell deek 3a mzablto sayya7
Every rooster crows on his own trash heap.
👉 Meaning: Everyone feels powerful in their own space.
💡 Usage: Said when someone brags too much in their comfort zone.
3. بعد ما شاب ودّوه ع الكتّاب – Ba3d ma shaab waddaou 3al kitteb
After he grew old, they sent him to school.
👉 Meaning: Too little, too late.
💡 Usage: When someone tries to fix things after it’s already useless.
4. إللي إيدو بالمي مش متل إللي إيدو بالنار – Illi eedo bel mayy mesh metl illi eedo bel nar
The one whose hand is in water isn’t like the one whose hand is in fire.
👉 Meaning: Easy to talk when you’re not the one suffering.
💡 Usage: Said when someone judges without experiencing hardship.
5. الحكي ما عليه جمرك – El 7aki ma 3leh joumrok
Talking doesn’t pay customs.
👉 Meaning: Talk is cheap.
💡 Usage: When someone promises big things but never acts.
6. إذا مش إلك، لغيرك – Iza mish elak, laghayrak
If it’s not yours, it’s someone else’s.
👉 Meaning: Don’t obsess, what isn’t meant for you belongs to others.
💡 Usage: To console someone about lost opportunities.
7. من برّا الله الله، ومن جوّا يعلم الله – Men barra Allah Allah, w men jouwa ya3lam Allah
From the outside: Godly. From the inside: Only God knows.
👉 Meaning: Someone looks perfect on the outside but is corrupt inside.
💡 Usage: Criticism of hypocrisy.
8. الجار قبل الدار – El jaar abl el daar
The neighbor before the house.
👉 Meaning: Good neighbors are more valuable than the house itself.
💡 Usage: Said when advising someone to consider people before possessions.
9. عصفور بالإيد ولا عشرة عالشجرة – asfour bel iid wala 3ashra 3al shajra
A bird in the hand is worth ten on the tree.
👉 Meaning: It’s better to secure something small than risk it for something bigger.
💡 Usage: Warns against greed and risk-taking.
10. إللي بيركض ورا المجرّة بتضيع النجوم – Illi byerkez wara el mejra bteDii3 ennoujoum
He who chases after galaxies loses the stars.
👉 Meaning: If you aim too unrealistically high, you’ll miss what’s achievable.
💡 Usage: Practical advice to stay grounded.
Lebanese proverbs show the humor and resilience of a people who’ve faced hardship but never lost their wit. They’re short, sharp, and often come with a smile or laugh.
By learning them, you don’t just sound more native, you also connect with the soul of Lebanese culture.
🙋 FAQ – Lebanese Proverbs
Do Lebanese people use proverbs in daily life?
Yes, very often! They’re part of everyday conversations, especially with older generations.
Are Lebanese proverbs unique to Lebanon?
Some overlap with Arabic from other countries, but many are distinctly Lebanese in wording or humor.
Can learning proverbs improve my Arabic?
Absolutely, they teach natural phrasing, cultural context, and boost your listening skills.
What’s the most famous Lebanese proverb?
Iid wa7de ma btza2f (One hand can’t clap) is one of the most common.
