العين ما تعلاش عالحاجب
El ein ma te’lash ‘al hageb
Translation: The eye cannot be higher than the eyebrow.
Meaning: This saying refers to a certain pecking order and is almost exclusively used in class contexts. It is acknowledgement of social standing and the status of one’s superiors. It was often used in black and white films in the original meaning. But if you hear this proverb today, it will most probably be in jest between friends and family members.
Source: Egyptian Proverbs, (Al-Ahram Center for Translation and Publishing, 1986) by Ahmed Taymour Pasha,
Translated by: Nabil Shawkat
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