Meaning & Explanation
The idiom “A prophet is seldom honoured in his own land” means that people often fail to recognize or appreciate the talents and wisdom of those closest to them. Great individuals are frequently undervalued in their own communities before gaining recognition elsewhere.
Hindi Equivalent:
“अपने देश में पैगंबर की कदर कम”
Literal Meaning: “A prophet receives little respect in his own country”
Detailed Explanation
This proverb highlights a universal truth about human nature:
- Familiarity Breeds Contempt: People often take local talent for granted
- External Validation Required: Recognition frequently comes from outsiders first
- Late Appreciation: True worth is often realized only after time/distance
The concept originates from biblical teachings but appears across cultures, reflecting how societies frequently overlook their own visionaries.
Real-Life Examples
1. Scientific Pioneers
English: “Dr. Kalam’s rocket research was initially ignored in India before gaining international acclaim.”
Hindi: “डॉ. कलाम के रॉकेट शोध को भारत में पहले अनदेखा किया गया, फिर विदेशों में मान्यता मिली।”
2. Artistic Talent
English: “The local painter struggled for years before foreign collectors recognized his genius.”
Hindi: “स्थानीय चित्रकार को वर्षों संघर्ष करना पड़ा जब तक विदेशी कलेक्टरों ने उसकी प्रतिभा नहीं पहचानी।”
3. Business Innovators
English: “His startup ideas were rejected locally but became successful overseas.”
Hindi: “उसके स्टार्टअप विचारों को स्थानीय स्तर पर ठुकरा दिया गया, लेकिन विदेश में सफल हो गए।”
Psychological & Social Insights
Why this phenomenon occurs:
✓ Resistance to change in familiar environments
✓ Jealousy among peers/community members
✓ Higher credibility given to “foreign” ideas
✓ Lack of perspective about local talent
Usage Tips
Use when discussing unrecognized talent Effective in conversations about innovation and change Helps explain why some seek opportunities abroad
Similar Proverbs
| English | Hindi |
|---|---|
| “No man is a hero to his valet” | “नौकर के लिए कोई मालिक महान नहीं होता” |
| “Common things are undervalued” | “आम चीज़ों की कदर कम होती है” |
| “Grass is always greener…” | “दूर के ढोल सुहावने” |
Cultural Perspectives
This truth appears worldwide:
- Chinese: “Local ginger isn’t spicy”
- Russian: “There’s no prophet in his own country”
- Arabic: “The carpenter’s door is loose”
Reflection Questions:
- Have you witnessed talented individuals being overlooked locally?
- How can societies better recognize their own visionaries?
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