Meaning
Everything that begins must eventually come to an end; impermanence of things.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Mehmān-navāzi' (hospitality) is central. This proverb helps both host and guest manage the 'Tārof' (ritual politeness) of leaving. Sufi poets used this phrase to teach 'Zohd' (asceticism), reminding people that the soul's 'coming' to earth will be followed by its 'going' back to the divine. In fast-paced cities like Tehran, it's used more pragmatically for job changes or moving apartments, reflecting a resilient attitude toward change. The phrase is a staple in 'Pand-nāmeh' (books of advice), used to remind rulers that their power is temporary.
Use it to end a conversation
If you are a guest and want to leave politely without making it awkward, this is your magic phrase.
Don't over-use it
If you say it every time you leave a room, it loses its philosophical weight and sounds repetitive.
Meaning
Everything that begins must eventually come to an end; impermanence of things.
Use it to end a conversation
If you are a guest and want to leave politely without making it awkward, this is your magic phrase.
Don't over-use it
If you say it every time you leave a room, it loses its philosophical weight and sounds repetitive.
Pair it with a wish
Always follow the proverb with a positive wish, like 'Omidvārām bāz ham bebinimetun' (Hope to see you again).
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct words.
هر آمدنی را _______ است.
The proverb requires the gerundive form 'raftani' to match 'āmadani'.
In which situation is this proverb MOST appropriate?
When is it best to say 'Har āmadani rā raftani ast'?
It is a classic polite way to acknowledge a departure.
Complete the dialogue.
A: حیف که تعطیلات تمام شد. B: بله، ولی ________________.
The proverb fits the context of a period of time (holidays) ending.
Match the Persian word to its English meaning in the proverb.
Match the following:
These are the literal components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesهر آمدنی را _______ است.
The proverb requires the gerundive form 'raftani' to match 'āmadani'.
When is it best to say 'Har āmadani rā raftani ast'?
It is a classic polite way to acknowledge a departure.
A: حیف که تعطیلات تمام شد. B: بله، ولی ________________.
The proverb fits the context of a period of time (holidays) ending.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the literal components of the phrase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsWhile it aligns with Islamic views on impermanence, it is a secular proverb used by everyone regardless of religion.
Yes, but it sounds very detached. It might make you seem like you don't care about the relationship ending.
It's a suffix that turns a verb into a noun representing the act or potential of that verb.
Not really. The full phrase is the standard form.
Absolutely! It's a great way to show you understand Persian culture and advanced-sounding (but simple) grammar.
Related Phrases
این نیز بگذرد
similarThis too shall pass.
دنیا محل گذر است
builds onThe world is a place of passage.
نو که آمد به بازار، کهنه شود دلآزار
contrastWhen the new comes to the market, the old becomes an eyesore.
خوشا آمدی و صفا آوردی
contrastWelcome, you brought purity/joy.
