Where does the expression "The dog barks, the caravan goes" come from? - briefly
The proverb "The dog barks, the caravan goes" originates from Persian literature, specifically from the works of the famous poet Saadi Shirazi in his book "Gulistan." It conveys the idea that actions speak louder than words and that progress continues despite opposition or criticism.
Where does the expression "The dog barks, the caravan goes" come from? - in detail
The expression "The dog barks, the caravan goes" originates from the ancient Middle Eastern and Central Asian nomadic cultures. These tribes, such as the Turks, Mongols, and Arabs, relied heavily on camel caravans for transportation across vast deserts and steppes. In these cultures, dogs were often used to guard the caravans, alerting their owners to potential threats or intruders with their barking.
The phrase emphasizes the resilience and determination of nomadic peoples who faced countless challenges during their journeys. Despite any obstacles or dangers signaled by the barking dog, the caravan continued its journey, showcasing the unyielding spirit and adaptability of these ancient travelers.
In modern usage, this proverb has been adopted to emphasize the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. It encourages individuals to press on with their goals and ambitions, despite the presence of difficulties or setbacks, much like the nomadic caravans that persisted through harsh conditions and constant challenges.