الشاطرة تغزل برجل حمار
El shatra teghzel be regl homar
Translation: A clever woman would be able to spin yarn with the leg of a donkey
Meaning: Bright people can do wonderful things with minimal resources. Making fabric was a common household chore prior to the introduction of modern machines. Although weaving required a loom and a space, knitting could be done with a needle or a hook. As for spinning, it required very little concentration and can be done in free time, while relaxing on the raised step in front of your door or chatting with friends. The activity wasn't gender specific, and men too did a lot of spinning.
Source: ُEgyptian proverbs
Translated by: Nabil Shawkat
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