He that pryeth into every cloud, may be stricken with a thunder-bolt.

Meaning: Excessive curiosity about dangerous or forbidden matters invites the very harm one seeks to understand.

Origin: From 'A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases' (1870). Public domain.

More proverbs about Wisdom

• Pull gently on a weak rope. — Excessive force on fragile things causes them to break; restraint and care preserve what'…
• It is easier to pull down than to build. — Destruction requires less effort, skill, and time than creating something of lasting valu…
• Let your purse be your master. — Spending wisely means letting your financial capacity, not desires, determine your purcha…
• He that shows his purse longs to be rid of it. — Displaying wealth openly invites theft, so the careless advertiser unconsciously desires…
• Don't quarrel with the beggar for his bone. — Arguing with someone who has nothing to lose is pointless and beneath your dignity.
• Raise no more spirits than you can conjure down. — Ambition beyond your control creates chaos you cannot contain or resolve.

← Back to Proverbs

Loading the full interactive collection…