The axe forgets, but the tree remembers
Meaning: Those who cause harm often forget quickly, while those who suffer carry the wound far longer.
Origin: Commonly labeled a Shona proverb from Zimbabwe, but it is also credited to other African and even Romanian traditions, and no early written source has been traced. It means that whoever causes harm forgets it quickly, while the one harmed remembers.
Equivalents in French, Spanish, and Japanese
- French: La hache oublie, mais l'arbre se souvient (literally: The axe forgets, but the tree remembers)
- Spanish: El hacha olvida, pero el árbol recuerda (literally: The axe forgets, but the tree remembers)
- Japanese: 斧は忘れる、しかし木は覚えている (Ono wa wasureru, shikashi ki wa oboete iru) (literally: The axe forgets, but the tree remembers)
More proverbs about Morality
- A house divided against itself cannot stand — Internal conflict destroys an organization from within; unity is essential for survival.
- Judge not, lest ye be judged — We should refrain from judging others because we ourselves are imperfect.
- If you light a lamp for somebody, it will also brighten your own path — Helping others ultimately benefits yourself as well.
- There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience — Peace of mind and restful sleep come only from living and acting honorably.
- The more laws, the less justice — Excessive rules and regulations can undermine rather than promote fairness.
- Know thyself — Self-knowledge and self-awareness are the foundation of all wisdom and right living.
From our compliments & insults
- Sei una persona d'oro — You're genuinely wonderful — kind, trustworthy, and precious to have in one's life.
- Che spettacolo! — You look absolutely stunning — a spontaneous burst of admiration for someone's appearance.
- Du bist ein Goldstück — You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.