35
“Mufradot” (single couplets) and wise sayings
Textbook: pp. 190–192
GoalUnderstand the meaning of “Mufradot” and Sa’diy’s wise sayings.
New words
single couplets · mufradotwise saying · hikmatpeace · sulhcontentment · qanoat
Explanation
“Mufradot” is a series of separate couplets that are not linked to each other; each couplet states its own thought. The “Mufradot” in the textbook has thoughts such as: it is better to have no child than an ill-mannered one; doing good to the good is good; the wealth of the world passes from hand to hand. In the wise sayings an ant collects grain all summer – prepare in advance; one who sows nothing today will not eat bread tomorrow; a donkey loaded with books is not a scholar; peace is a thousand times better than war; do not covet the property of others. These counsels are compact like proverbs and easy to remember.
Worked examples
Example: “the ant gathers all summer” – work today to prepare for tomorrow.
Example: a donkey with books is not a scholar – knowledge is not just carrying but understanding and using it.
Class activity
“Wisdom notebook”: write 3 sayings of Sa’diy and give an example from your life for each.
Practice
1
What is “Mufradot”?
A series of separate couplets.
2
What is the ant saying about?
Preparing in advance and working.
3
Why is the donkey with books not a scholar?
Because he carries books but does not understand them.
4
Why is peace said to be better than war?
Because war brings bloodshed and loss, while peace brings calm and prosperity.