In the region of Jabal Amel, there’s a widely recognized proverb: “Green or Dry, Bring It” (أخضر يابس هات). This saying reflects greed and an unyielding desire to take, even at the expense of others’ well-being. It also highlights the persistence of individuals who exploit others for personal gain, regardless of circumstances.
When asked about the origins of this proverb, historian Kassem Hojeij, head of the Deir Antar municipality and a living archive of Jabal Amel’s oral heritage, explained:
“This proverb is used to describe greedy individuals who cannot be satisfied. They will take advantage of generous people around them, even when those people’s resources are exhausted. The phrase, ‘green or dry,’ symbolizes the exploitative nature of such individuals who demand everything—whether it is fresh and flourishing or dry and depleted—for their own benefit.”
Hojeij further elaborated:
“The idea behind the proverb is clear and straightforward. It’s a cautionary tale against those who parasitically live off the generosity of others, considering even the scraps to be a prize worth taking. This greedy behavior is sharply criticized in Jabal Amel society, where generosity and mutual aid are core values. Exploitation of this kind is not only frowned upon but is seen as an affront to the principles of communal living.”
The proverb serves as a reminder to identify and guard against greed, while also encouraging a culture of fairness and reciprocity within the community.
