کفش کهنه در بیابان نعمت است
kafsh-e kohneh dar biyaabaan ne'mat ast
Old shoe in desert is a blessing
Meaning
Something old or worn can be valuable in a time of need.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Qana'at' (contentment) is a pillar of Iranian ethics, often contrasted with 'Hers' (greed). This proverb is a primary tool for teaching children to value their belongings. Saadi Shirazi, the 'Master of Speech', used such imagery to bridge the gap between elite philosophy and common wisdom. During times of sanctions, Iranians often use this proverb to describe 'Jihadi management' or making something out of nothing. In Sufi thought, the 'desert' is the world of material lack where the soul finds its true needs.
Use it for Gratitude
Use this phrase when someone gives you a small or old gift. It shows you are humble and appreciate the gesture.
Don't over-use
If you use it for every minor inconvenience, it can sound like you are complaining too much about the 'desert' of your life.
Meaning
Something old or worn can be valuable in a time of need.
Use it for Gratitude
Use this phrase when someone gives you a small or old gift. It shows you are humble and appreciate the gesture.
Don't over-use
If you use it for every minor inconvenience, it can sound like you are complaining too much about the 'desert' of your life.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
کفش کهنه در ________ نعمت است.
The word 'biyābān' (desert) provides the necessary context of hardship.
Which situation best fits the proverb?
A person finds an old map when their GPS fails in a remote area.
The old map is the 'old shoe' and the remote area is the 'desert'.
Choose the best response for Sara.
Ali: 'I lost my expensive pen, now I have to use this cheap pencil.' Sara: '_________'
Sara is reminding Ali to be grateful for the pencil in his time of need.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesکفش کهنه در ________ نعمت است.
The word 'biyābān' (desert) provides the necessary context of hardship.
A person finds an old map when their GPS fails in a remote area.
The old map is the 'old shoe' and the remote area is the 'desert'.
Ali: 'I lost my expensive pen, now I have to use this cheap pencil.' Sara: '_________'
Sara is reminding Ali to be grateful for the pencil in his time of need.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, especially ironically or when talking about old technology and vintage items.
No, it's generally used for objects or resources. Using it for a person might be seen as calling them 'old and worn out'.
'Ne'mat' is a blessing from God; 'Qanimat' is a lucky find or a prize. Both work in this proverb.
Related Phrases
لنگه کفش در بیابان غنیمت است
synonymA single old shoe in the desert is a godsend.
کاچی به از هیچی
similarA little pudding is better than nothing.
قدر عافیت کسی داند که به مصیبتی گرفتار آید
builds onOnly he who has suffered knows the value of safety.
