In Persian culture, there are countless sayings about how different body parts behave as if they have minds of their own—similar to independent states under the governance of the brain, our central authority. This dynamic creates a fascinating interplay where the brain tirelessly works to uphold order, yet every so often, these states or body parts choose to rebel against that control. Take the heart, for instance; it’s the ultimate rebel, acting on its whims: it falls, wanders off, and sometimes gets lost altogether.

This idea is beautifully captured in the saying Del Bordan, Del Kandan, Delam Raft, which translates to the heart was taken, pulled away; my heart is gone! This phrase conveys the loss and disconnection when the heart acts independently. It highlights how the heart can mislead us, often swayed more by emotions than reason.

And the tongue, another troublemaker! It can even put our heads in danger. Its ability to utter words carelessly can have ominous consequences, as highlighted by the age-old proverb, A sharp tongue will cost a green head. This saying serves as a warning: if we continue to speak recklessly and without forethought, we may find ourselves in grave danger, even risking our very lives.

And then, there are times when these states team up and extort the poor brain! Like when the heart and eyes conspire together, pulling us away from logical decisions. That’s when we say, “My eyes saw, and my heart wanted!”

The Persian language is rich in proverbs and idioms, often using humor to give personality to different body parts. These expressions can be imaginative and reflect cultural nuances in their descriptions. They also capture the complexities of human emotions and thoughts, painting a vibrant picture of how we interpret our experiences. If you’re interested in exploring further into these captivating sayings, our eyes are on your way! This means we our eyes are eagerly waiting for you at FarsiMonde! (I must say, the eyes are the most rebellious!)

Author: Parastou Meskarian