Animals in the Western Neo-Aramaic Proverbs of Maʿlūla

The article explores the presence and significance of animals in the Western Neo-Aramaic proverbs of Maʿlūla, drawing on a collection of 366 proverbs recorded by Žaržūra Ruzḳalla. Of these, 108 proverbs feature animals, including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and other creatures. The study categorises and analyses the symbolic meanings attributed to specific animals, such as the donkey representing stupidity, the lion symbolising generosity, and the snake embodying fear or danger. The proverbs often reflect local environmental and cultural contexts, incorporating both practical observations and moral lessons. The study also compares the representation of animals in Maʿlūla proverbs with their presence in Arabic and other linguistic traditions, highlighting the unique blend of regional identity and shared human experience.