Meaning
Having troublesome or unpleasant neighbors can significantly disrupt one's peace and well-being.
Cultural Background
In modern Tehran, 'Apārtemān-neshini' (apartment living) has its own set of rules called 'Farhang-e Apārtemān-neshini'. This proverb is often used when these unwritten rules are broken. Historically, the 'Koucheh' (alleyway) was a shared social space. A bad neighbor affected the reputation of the entire alley. Islamic teachings emphasize 'Haqq-e Hamsāye' (The Right of the Neighbor) up to 40 houses in every direction. Violating this is seen as a major sin. Iranians often say 'Hamsāye-ro bepors, khāne-ro bekhar' (Ask about the neighbor, then buy the house).
The 'Nazri' Connection
If you have a bad neighbor, sometimes giving them 'Nazri' (religious food offering) is a traditional way to 'soften' them and improve the relationship.
Don't use as a joke
This phrase is quite heavy. Don't use it to joke with a neighbor you actually like, as they might take it personally.
Meaning
Having troublesome or unpleasant neighbors can significantly disrupt one's peace and well-being.
The 'Nazri' Connection
If you have a bad neighbor, sometimes giving them 'Nazri' (religious food offering) is a traditional way to 'soften' them and improve the relationship.
Don't use as a joke
This phrase is quite heavy. Don't use it to joke with a neighbor you actually like, as they might take it personally.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
همسایه بد ... جان است.
'Balā-ye' means plague or calamity, which is the core of this proverb.
In which situation would you most likely use this proverb?
Your neighbor's cat accidentally enters your garden once.
The proverb is for serious, chronic issues, not minor one-time accidents.
Complete the dialogue with the proverb.
شخص الف: همسایه جدید هر شب تا صبح مهمونی میگیره. شخص ب: ...
This is the most appropriate empathetic response to a complaint about a neighbor.
Match the proverb to the correct meaning.
همسایه بد بلای جان است
The proverb warns about the negative impact of bad neighbors.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Types of 'Bala' (Plagues) in Persian
Social
- • Bad Neighbor
- • False Friend
- • Rude Boss
Practice Bank
4 exercisesهمسایه بد ... جان است.
'Balā-ye' means plague or calamity, which is the core of this proverb.
Your neighbor's cat accidentally enters your garden once.
The proverb is for serious, chronic issues, not minor one-time accidents.
شخص الف: همسایه جدید هر شب تا صبح مهمونی میگیره. شخص ب: ...
This is the most appropriate empathetic response to a complaint about a neighbor.
همسایه بد بلای جان است
The proverb warns about the negative impact of bad neighbors.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, perhaps even more so! Thin walls in modern buildings make the 'bad neighbor' problem very common in Iranian cities.
Absolutely. It's very common for students or young professionals to use this for difficult roommates.
There isn't a single direct opposite proverb, but 'Hamsāye-ye khūb ne'mat ast' (A good neighbor is a blessing) is often used.
Related Phrases
اول همسایه بعد خانه
similarFirst the neighbor, then the house.
دوری و دوستی
contrastDistance leads to friendship.
همسایه از همسایه ارث میبرد
builds onNeighbors inherit from each other.
