Why Is ‘Al Yad’ (The Hand) So Common in the Damascene Dialect?

The Damascene dialect is rich with expressions and phrases that creatively incorporate the word “Yad” which means “hand” to describe various characters and behaviors. Here are some examples of these phrases and their meanings:

1. “Eedo Khadra” (His hand is green):

This phrase is to describe someone who has a talent for planting, and whose land always yields a good crop. It describes a successful and fortunate person.

2. “Eedo Beida” (His hand is white):

This is about a generous person who is always willing to help others and is known for their kindness and goodwill.

3. “Eedo Maska” (His hand is tight):

This refers to a stingy person who is reluctant to spend money.

4. “Eedo Taileh” (His hand gets far):

This phrase describes someone with influence and power, especially in government or a high position.

5. “Eedo Wasleh” (His hand reaches far):

This is to describe someone with strong connections who can achieve difficult things thanks to their network.

6. “Eedo Taweeleh” (His arm is long):

This describes a person who harms others around him, whether through words or actions.

7. “Eedo Khafifeh” (His hand is light):

This phrase is to describe a sneaky or very skilled person in their work, someone who takes something without anyone noticing.

8. “Eedo Mabkhusheh” (His hand is punctured):

This describes a spendthrift who doesn’t manage their money well and spends it quickly.

9. “Eedo Faroutiyeh” (His hand is a whip):

This phrase is for someone whose punch is powerful and painful, often used metaphorically for someone strong in a fight.

10. “Eedo A Albou” (His hand on his heart):

This is about someone who is very fearful and always anxious.

11. “Eedo Wel Kaf” (His hand and the slap):

This describes a hot-tempered person who is hard to reason with.

12. “Eedi B Hal’o” (My hand in his throat):

This refers to someone you’ve spent on, bought gifts for, and invited many times.

13. “Eedi Bzanarak” (My hand is on your belt):

This is a way of asking for help or quick support from someone.

14. “Eid Mn Wara W Eid Mn Edam” (A hand from behind and a hand from in front):

This is about someone who is broke, with absolutely nothing left.

15. “Jayi Aam ylawlheh B’ideih” (He came with his hands swinging):

This is for someone who returns empty-handed from a trip or errand.

16. “Eidak Wa Ma Taatik” (Your hand and whatever it gets you):

This is a threatening phrase. It implies that the person is powerless to do anything, meaning “Try it and see what happens.”

17. “Eedo Satieh” (His hand is firm):

This describes someone whose strike is strong and effective.

18. “Eidi Ala Eidak” (My hand on your hand):

This phrase expresses readiness to work together.

19. “Eidi Ala Rasak” (My hand on your head):

This is a way of making an oath, ensuring that one is telling the truth.

20. “Hattet Eidak Aal Jereh” (You put your hand on the wound):

This phrase is when someone pinpoints the exact problem or diagnoses it correctly.

These expressions reflect the rich heritage and authentic spirit of the Damascene dialect, adding a special flavor to conversations among people, which is why it’s important to keep them alive.