(your) status is respected/safeguarded; seniority comes first
العين لا تعلو على الحاجب

ماذا يعكس هذا المثل عن الثقافة العربية؟

This idiom literally means "the eye can never go higher than the eyebrow". It is a common expression used to show respect for a person of a higher status, and is particularly used when a person of a relatively lower seniority climbs the ladder or achieves what is perceived as excellence. It is a reassurance that this does not change the status quo. This attitude can be traced to the tribal roots of Arab societies where respect for the established hierarchy is among the most important virtues for the survival of the whole clan.

تاريخ النشر 15-07-2020
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