سحر خیز باش تا کامروا باشی
sahar khiz bash ta kamrava bashi
The early bird catches the worm
Meaning
Being an early riser or starting tasks promptly leads to success.
Cultural Background
The concept of 'Sahar' is deeply tied to the 'Adhan' (call to prayer). Even non-religious people often respect the 'Sahar' as a time of mental clarity and peace. Traditional merchants believe that the first customer of the day (Dasht) brings luck. Being 'Sahar-khiz' ensures you are there for the 'Dasht'. Classical poets like Rumi and Saadi often wrote about the 'Sahar' breeze (Baad-e-Sahar) as a messenger of love and wisdom. Iranian students preparing for the 'Konkur' (national university entrance exam) are often told this proverb daily by their parents.
Use it for encouragement
If a friend is nervous about a big day, say this to them. It sounds very supportive and wise.
The 'Sahar' Vibe
In Iran, 'Sahar' is also a popular girl's name, meaning 'Dawn'. It carries a connotation of hope and new beginnings.
Meaning
Being an early riser or starting tasks promptly leads to success.
Use it for encouragement
If a friend is nervous about a big day, say this to them. It sounds very supportive and wise.
The 'Sahar' Vibe
In Iran, 'Sahar' is also a popular girl's name, meaning 'Dawn'. It carries a connotation of hope and new beginnings.
Test Yourself
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
سحر خیز باش تا _______ باشی.
'Kamrava' is the traditional word used in this proverb to mean successful/fulfilled.
Which sentence is the correct form of the proverb?
Choose the correct version:
The proverb requires the imperative 'bash' and the subjunctive 'bashi'.
In which situation would you most likely use this proverb?
Situation: A friend is complaining that they don't have enough time to finish their project.
The proverb is used to encourage earlier starts to be more productive.
Complete the dialogue.
A: من خیلی خستهام و کارهایم تمام نشده. B: شاید باید صبحها زودتر بیدار شوی. میدانی که ...
This is the most relevant proverb for time management and early rising.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesسحر خیز باش تا _______ باشی.
'Kamrava' is the traditional word used in this proverb to mean successful/fulfilled.
Choose the correct version:
The proverb requires the imperative 'bash' and the subjunctive 'bashi'.
Situation: A friend is complaining that they don't have enough time to finish their project.
The proverb is used to encourage earlier starts to be more productive.
A: من خیلی خستهام و کارهایم تمام نشده. B: شاید باید صبحها زودتر بیدار شوی. میدانی که ...
This is the most relevant proverb for time management and early rising.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, but often in the context of exams or fitness. It's a classic that hasn't gone out of style.
You can, but it won't be the proverb anymore. It will just be a normal sentence.
Technically, it's the hour before sunrise. In the proverb, it just means 'very early'.
It depends on your relationship. Between family and friends, it's a common 'wake-up call'.
Related Phrases
وقت طلاست
similarTime is gold.
کار امروز را به فردا میافکن
builds onDon't put off today's work until tomorrow.
نابرده رنج، گنج میسر نمیشود
similarNo pain, no gain.