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Dr. Mohammed Rashid Al Naqbi explained that the podcast explores the depths of Emirati culture through proverbs rich in wisdom. These expressions not only reflect national identity but also influence daily life. He also stresses that proverbs are more than mere sayings—they are mirrors of a rich culture and a long history shaped by ancestral experiences, offering a journey through time that reveals life lessons carried by these traditional sayings.
In the seventh episode, Al-Naqbi explores traditional Emirati proverbs that emphasize caution and foresight. One proverb warns against opportunists who seek what is not theirs, even when they are nearing their end. Another, deeply rooted in the country's pearl diving heritage, states: “He who doesn’t measure before diving, won’t benefit from the dive after drowning.”
This old saying reflects the wisdom of experienced divers who would measure sea depth using a weighted lead piece called "balad" before plunging in. The message is clear: those who fail to assess risks are bound to face dangerous consequences, regardless of any success they might have found.
The episode features proverbs rich in cultural insight, including “Build a property, not just wealth.” In this context, “lek” refers to money—approximately 100,000—while “dak” signifies construction and development. The proverb promotes investment in real estate over saving cash, emphasizing that while money may quickly vanish, land—whether industrial or agricultural—retains value and continues to generate returns when properly invested or managed by others.
Another proverb shared is “The wound of time heals, but a spring thorn lasts.” This expression conveys that while the wounds caused by life’s hardships may eventually fade and be forgotten, emotional wounds inflicted by a close friend are deeper and longer-lasting. Such betrayal, especially from someone cherished through years of companionship, leaves a lasting scar that is difficult to heal.
Dr. Mohammed Rashid Al-Naqbi continues exploring Emirati proverbs that reflect deep-rooted cultural values. He highlights sayings that criticize extreme stinginess, stress the importance of choosing noble family roots in marriage, and promote practical, measured responses to small problems. He also emphasizes that kindness and gentle behavior earn respect, while harshness drives people away. The proverb, “The miser’s food—neither smelled by a neighbor nor tasted by a mouse,” illustrates the social rejection of selfishness and underscores the importance of generosity in Emirati society.
Dr. Mohammed Rashid Al Naqbi highlights Emirati proverbs that stress the father’s role in raising children on values and traditions. He points to the saying “He whom his father doesn’t discipline, time will,” which reflects the belief that moral upbringing begins at home, while life’s hardships may later reinforce those lessons.
In concluding the episode, Dr. Mohammed Rashid Al-Naqbi reflects on the lasting significance of Emirati proverbs, describing them as a timeless reservoir of wisdom and life lessons. He emphasises that these carefully chosen words have long served as a guiding tool for daily life, used by ancestors to educate their children and strengthen the values of their communities. Through these proverbs, generations have passed down a legacy rich in culture, morals, and meaningful guidance.
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