proverb · Words worth keeping
God tempers the wind to the shorn sheep.
God tempers the wind to the shorn sheep.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying expresses trust that divine care makes allowance for vulnerability. The shorn sheep and moderated wind picture compassion toward exposed need.
Example
A believer expresses hope for care during a difficult transition while accepting practical assistance from friends.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
A sheep without its fleece is given gentler conditions through God’s care. A believer may use the image to express hope during a vulnerable period. It does not prove that harmful weather or hardship will be prevented, or that suffering shows an absence of faith. A careful reading keeps the confidence within its religious frame while recognising the continuing importance of practical help and protection.
When to use it
Use it to discuss religious hope for compassion toward vulnerability.
Keep in mind
It expresses belief, not a guarantee of protection or an explanation for suffering.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English