“A fire should be extinguished when it is small; an enemy should be subdued while young.”
Problems and threats are far easier to handle before they grow large.
— Traditional Bhutan Wisdom, Bhutan
Source: Traditional Bhutan proverb, public-domain oral tradition
More Proverbs from Bhutan
Don't put an easy tongue in an easy mouth.
A warning against careless, excessive talkativeness — speak thoughtfully rather than freely.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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If the thought is good, your place and path are good; if the thought is bad, your place and path are bad.
A person's inner intentions shape the course and quality of their life.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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The stripes of a tiger are on the outside; the stripes of a person are on the inside.
An animal's nature is visible on its skin, but a person's true character is hidden within and only known over time.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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A trustworthy person steals one's heart.
Genuine trustworthiness wins people's affection more surely than any other quality.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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Do not start your worldly life too late; do not start your religious life too early.
Practical duties should be taken up promptly in youth, while spiritual devotion is best approached with the maturity that comes later in life.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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A girl with a dedicated heart and good behaviour is more precious than your own heart.
Loyalty and good character in a loved one are valued above all else.
Traditional Bhutan Wisdom
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