Muy zaunk zai ani sakhor khaunk zai

There are two parts to this proverb: an ant, standing for humility, and sugar, which represents something very desirable.

In the health-conscious world of today, the word sugar almost sounds pejorative. Yet there was a time when sugar was almost the ultimate in desirability, as illustrated by the song, “Sugar in the morning, sugar in the evening, sugar at supper time” and many other songs, poems and proverbs of yesteryears. So, at least to put this proverb in the proper perspective, let us for a moment transport ourselves back to the nineteenth century and assume that sugar is indeed an extraordinary commodity.

On the other hand, volumes could be written on what has been said about humility in the literature and proverbs of all languages and religions of the world. But here we are dealing not with an exhortation on humility, but with its pragmatic aspect: if you want to eat sugar, then … In other words, the proverb speaks not about the greatness of humility or its desirability per se, but about its benefits. Even psychological research studies have dwelt on this topic, like in this example.

Instead of sermonizing, one of the most effective ways of driving home a point of ethics or morality is to draw one’s attention to its happy outcome. And that is exactly what this proverb purports to do. It reminds me of a little verse I came across as a child in the book, The Treasure Hunt:

He that is down needs fear no fall,
he that is low no pride;
he that is humble ever shall
have God to be his guide.

Which is the first stanza of a poem written by John Bunyan in the 17th century.

Meanings:
muy