بهشت زیر پای مادران است.
Behesht zir-e paye madaran ast.
Heaven is under the feet of mothers.
Meaning
Emphasizes the high status and importance of mothers in Persian culture.
Cultural Background
In Iran, the concept of 'Haq-e Madar' (the mother's right) is so strong that people believe a mother's 'Agh' (curse/displeasure) can ruin a person's life. This proverb is the positive counterpart to that fear. In Afghanistan, this proverb is often recited in Dari during 'Nikah' (wedding) ceremonies to remind the groom to never let his new marriage come before his respect for his mother. Tajik literature is filled with references to this proverb, often using it to contrast the harshness of life with the sanctuary of a mother's love. The proverb is a cornerstone of Islamic ethics across the Middle East, serving as a primary text for teaching children about social hierarchy and kindness.
Use for Ta'arof
If someone praises your success, you can humbly say it's because of your mother's prayers, mentioning this proverb.
Don't shorten it
Shortening it to just 'Behesht-e Madaran' loses the powerful imagery of the feet.
Meaning
Emphasizes the high status and importance of mothers in Persian culture.
Use for Ta'arof
If someone praises your success, you can humbly say it's because of your mother's prayers, mentioning this proverb.
Don't shorten it
Shortening it to just 'Behesht-e Madaran' loses the powerful imagery of the feet.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
بهشت ____ پای مادران است.
The proverb specifically uses 'Zir' (under) to show humility.
Which situation is most appropriate for this proverb?
When should you say 'Behesht zir-e pay-e madaran ast'?
It is a sentimental and moral proverb used for family and respect.
Complete the dialogue.
دوست الف: من خیلی به مادرم کمک میکنم. دوست ب: آفرین! چون ...
The proverb provides the moral justification for helping one's mother.
Match the Persian words to their English meanings in the proverb.
Match the following:
These are the four core components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesبهشت ____ پای مادران است.
The proverb specifically uses 'Zir' (under) to show humility.
When should you say 'Behesht zir-e pay-e madaran ast'?
It is a sentimental and moral proverb used for family and respect.
دوست الف: من خیلی به مادرم کمک میکنم. دوست ب: آفرین! چون ...
The proverb provides the moral justification for helping one's mother.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the four core components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, it is a cultural standard in Iran used by everyone to express the importance of mothers.
Yes, it can be used for any mother figure to show deep respect.
It symbolizes the ultimate humility of the child and the high status of the mother.
Related Phrases
دعای مادر
builds onThe mother's prayer/blessing
سلطان قلبها مادر
similarMother, the sultan of hearts
حق نان و نمک
relatedThe right of bread and salt (loyalty)
