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هذا المنشور موجه للأجانب
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We often wonder to what extent is language an accurate reflection of the spirit of a culture. For example, in the Arabic language, wishing newly-weds “well-raised” or “righteous/virtuous” children is a very common congratulatory expression. Recently, we were asked to translate a wedding card which included the following statement:

داعين المولى عز وجل أن يرزقكما الذرية الصالحة

Which literally translates to:
We pray for God Almighty to grant you well-raised/good offspring

It seemed very awkward to convey such a statement to a Western couple, or is it? Is there an equivalent expression in non Arab/non Islamic cultures? And is this a reflection of the importance of having children (or its lack thereof) in these cultures? Please share your thoughts.