proverb · Words worth keeping
The poor man’s main tool is his tongue with which he defends himself.
The poor man’s main tool is his tongue with which he defends himself.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A poor person defending himself through speech gives words a role when material resources are limited. The saying recognises a means of making a case.
What the words are saying
A responsible reading does not assume speech is the only resource available or that eloquence should determine justice. Barriers to being heard can remain. A useful application supports accessible ways to express needs alongside practical assistance and fair processes.
Everyday example
A group helps a member present a concern and provides practical support rather than expecting persuasive speech alone to solve it.
When to use it
Use it to value being heard while recognising unequal resources.
What it does not mean
No guaranteed protection through speech or worth ranking by eloquence is established.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
South Africa
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin.- Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided wisdom reference (2014 AD)
Supplied reference B; unit 700; PDF page 63; collection label: South Africa
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.
- Culture
- South Africa