proverb · Words worth keeping
He who does not honor his wife dishonors himself.
He who does not honor his wife dishonors himself.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
Failing to honour a wife is pictured as dishonouring oneself. The saying connects treatment of a partner with the person’s own conduct.
Example
Someone considers how respectful treatment of a partner reflects their own choices while maintaining mutual boundaries.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Honour can be read as respect rather than ownership or compulsory deference. A responsible interpretation extends attention to dignity and consent without assigning one gender responsibility for a whole relationship. Respect does not require obedience, concealment of harm or remaining in an unwanted union.
When to use it
Use it to discuss relational respect with equality and consent retained.
Keep in mind
No ownership, gender hierarchy or duty to endure mistreatment is established.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
Argentina
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- Argentina