A tree is known by its fruit, and not by its leaves.
Meaning: Character reveals itself through actions and results, not promises or appearances.
Origin: From Jesus' words in the Gospels (Matthew 12:33): "the tree is known by his fruit." People are judged by what they do, not by how they look.
More proverbs about Wisdom
- At twelfth-day the days are lengthened a cock's stride. — Winter daylight gains imperceptibly after the new year, measurable only in tiny increment…
- One cannot be in two places at once. — Human limitations demand choosing priorities; attempting everything simultaneously guaran…
- The greatest number is made up of units. — Mighty achievements require attention to countless small details and contributions from m…
- Valour can do little without discretion. — Bravery without careful judgment leads to reckless harm rather than meaningful heroic ach…
- Valour that parleys is near yielding. — Hesitation to fight signals weakness; true courage acts decisively without negotiation or…
- Venture a small fish to catch a great one. — Small sacrifices or risks are worthwhile investments when they lead to substantially grea…
From our idioms
- paint someone a picture — To explain something in very great detail.
- pandora's box — A situation that contains many unexpected and unwanted problems and consequences.
- par for the course — Usual or to be expected; typical.