In the tapestry of Dutch idioms, one thread weaves a cautionary tale with vivid imagery: “Als de vos de passie preekt, boer pas op je kippen.” Translated directly, it means: “When the fox preaches about passion, farmer, beware of your chickens.” This proverb encapsulates a profound warning about being wary of deceitful intentions, especially when they come from unexpected sources.

At its core, this proverb advises against trusting individuals who may not have our best interests at heart, even if they speak convincingly or passionately. The fox, known for its cunning and sly nature, symbolizes deception and trickery. Meanwhile, the farmer represents innocence and vulnerability, his chickens embodying his prized possessions and livelihood.

The origin of this proverb can be traced back to the rich folklore and rural life of the Dutch countryside. Foxes were common predators of chickens, posing a constant threat to farmers’ flocks. In this context, the warning serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and discerning, especially when confronted with persuasive words or actions.

In conversation, the proverb can be used to caution against blindly trusting someone who may have ulterior motives. For example:

Conversation 1: Friend 1: “Did you hear about that new financial advisor? They’re offering incredible returns on investments!” Friend 2: “Hmm, I’d be careful. Remember the proverb: ‘Als de vos de passie preekt, boer pas op je kippen.’ Sounds too good to be true.”

Conversation 2: Colleague 1: “Our manager is really pushing for us to work overtime without extra pay. They say it’s for the success of the company.” Colleague 2: “I don’t know… It feels like the fox preaching about passion. We should be cautious and protect our own interests.”

In these examples, the proverb is invoked to remind individuals to exercise skepticism and protect themselves from potential harm or exploitation. It underscores the importance of discernment and critical thinking in navigating interpersonal relationships and decision-making processes.

As centuries pass, the wisdom of “Als de vos de passie preekt, boer pas op je kippen” continues to resonate, offering a timeless reminder to remain vigilant and wary of those who may seek to deceive us, no matter how convincing their words may be.