The proverb “From the wave’s crest to the snow’s edge” describes a person who has traveled extensively—a rare occurrence in the past, as most people’s lives were confined to their villages.
“The Origin and Meaning of the Proverb”
Historian Kassem Hojeij explained:
“In the past, travel was uncommon in Jabal Amel. People’s needs were simple and fulfilled within their local environment, so few ventured beyond their villages.
Those who traveled were called ‘dayar,’ meaning wanderer.
The proverb refers to Tyre (‘the wave’s crest’) and Mount Hermon (‘the snow’s edge’), which represented the boundaries of the known world for the locals.”
“Stories of Ottoman-Era Conscription”
Hojeij added:
“During the Ottoman era, young men from Jabal Amel were conscripted into the empire’s military campaigns. Rarely did they return due to war, harsh weather, or diseases.
One notable story is of a man from the Ashour family who served in Rumelia (Eastern Europe). He was the only survivor among 160 men taken from the region in the early 20th century.”
“The Ashour Family and the Bosnian Wife”
“This Ashour man returned with a Bosnian wife he met during his service.
He had been gravely wounded in battle and was nursed back to health by a dedicated Bosnian nurse. After recovering, he proposed to her, and they married. They lived together in Rumelia until his service ended, then returned to Jabal Amel.
Such stories contributed to the region’s collective memory, adding an element of wonder to the lives of those who ventured beyond their villages.”
