Meaning
Working hard by sleeping little.
Cultural Background
This proverb is often linked to the national epic 'Kalevipoeg' and the works of Tammsaare, representing the 'Estonian soul' which finds meaning in struggle. Similar values are found in Finland and Sweden, where the short summer necessitates intense labor, but Estonia's version is notably more focused on the 'late to bed' aspect. In the tech sector, this proverb is sometimes used ironically to describe 'crunch time' before a product launch. In villages, this is still a literal description of life during the harvest season (lõikusaeg).
Use it for motivation
If you want to sound like a supportive Estonian friend, use this when someone is working hard on a project.
Don't overdo it
Using this proverb too often can make you sound like a 19th-century schoolmaster. Use it sparingly.
Meaning
Working hard by sleeping little.
Use it for motivation
If you want to sound like a supportive Estonian friend, use this when someone is working hard on a project.
Don't overdo it
Using this proverb too often can make you sound like a 19th-century schoolmaster. Use it sparingly.
The 'Rikkus' part
Remember that 'rikkus' (wealth) in this proverb isn't just about millions in the bank; it's about having enough to provide for your family.
Test Yourself
Täida lüngad õigete sõnadega.
Vara ____, hilja ____, nõnda rikkus majja toodi.
The correct order is 'üles' (up) then 'voodi' (bed).
Millises olukorras on see vanasõna kõige sobivam?
Sinu sõber õpib öö läbi, et saada head hinnet.
The proverb fits someone working long hours for a goal.
Lõpeta dialoog.
A: Ma olen nii väsinud sellest projektist. B: Pea vastu! Tead ju küll: vara üles, hilja voodi, ...
This is the traditional rhyming completion of the proverb.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesVara ____, hilja ____, nõnda rikkus majja toodi.
The correct order is 'üles' (up) then 'voodi' (bed).
Sinu sõber õpib öö läbi, et saada head hinnet.
The proverb fits someone working long hours for a goal.
A: Ma olen nii väsinud sellest projektist. B: Pea vastu! Tead ju küll: vara üles, hilja voodi, ...
This is the traditional rhyming completion of the proverb.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, it is one of the most well-known proverbs. Even if people don't live by it, everyone understands the reference.
Not really. It's specifically about working or studying. For a trip, you'd just say 'me tõuseme vara' (we rise early).
It is a short form of 'voodisse' (into bed). In proverbs, these shorter forms are common for rhythm.
It can be. If they are exhausted, it might sound like you are telling them to work even harder. Use with caution!
No, it is a secular proverb, though it aligns with the Protestant work ethic common in the region.
The closest equivalent is 'Kes ees, see mees' (Who is first, is the man).
No, Estonian culture traditionally frowns upon 'unimütsid' (sleepyheads) who wake up late.
Yes, as a motivational closing or a comment on a busy period, it's quite acceptable.
'Nõnda' means 'thus' or 'in that way'.
Yes, some people say 'Vara üles, hilja voodi, nõnda surnuaeda viidi' (Early up, late to bed, thus one was taken to the graveyard).
Related Phrases
Tee tööd ja näe vaeva, siis tuleb ka armastus.
similarWork hard and struggle, then love will come.
Kes ees, see mees.
similarThe one who is first is the man (the winner).
Tark ei torma.
contrastA wise person does not rush.
Mida Juku ei õpi, seda Juhan ei tea.
builds onWhat little Juku doesn't learn, big Juhan won't know.
