Meaning & Analysis
One should rely on a man's verbal promise as the basis for trust, just as one would use a cow's horn as a secure point of control or leverage. It advises on the proper way to 'handle' or assess both humans and animals based on their most reliable features.
Insights
Basis of Reliability
The proverb establishes a parallel between the physical and the abstract as foundations of reliability. A cow's horn is its most tangible point of control, and similarly, a person's word is the essential 'handle' for their social and moral identity.
The Word as Character
A person's word is presented as the defining feature of their character and the primary instrument of social engagement. It is the point where they are held accountable, making their verbal commitments both a source of strength and a point of vulnerability.
Social Contract and Integrity
It underscores the foundational role of verbal promises in the social contract. In society, a person's word is the equivalent of a physical bond, the essential tool for establishing trust, forming agreements, and maintaining order.
Historical Code of Honor
This proverb reflects a pre-modern social context where verbal agreements and personal honor were paramount, often serving as binding contracts in the absence of widespread written documentation. The comparison elevates a man's word to the status of a physical, tangible asset.
Human-Animal Distinction
The proverb draws a clear distinction between the animal and human realms. Animals are controlled by physical force and tangible attributes (horns), whereas humans are meant to be governed by abstract principles like integrity and language, highlighting a hierarchical worldview.
Psychology of Trust
Psychologically, the proverb addresses the anxiety of trusting others by providing a simple, concrete metric. Equating an abstract promise ('word') to a solid object ('horn') makes the intangible concept of reliability feel more secure and graspable.
Rhetorical Devices
Parallelism and Antithesis
The proverb uses a balanced, parallel structure ('Take a... by...') to create a direct comparison between the man and the cow, emphasizing the contrast between the abstract 'word' and the concrete 'horn'.
Metaphor
The 'word' is used metaphorically as a tangible point of leverage, akin to a horn. This treats the abstract concept of integrity as a solid object that can be 'taken' or 'held,' making the idea more forceful and memorable.
Synecdoche
The 'horn' stands in for the entire physical nature of the animal, while the 'word' represents the entirety of a person's honor, reputation, and social accountability.
Transcription
Quotations
(and a cow be the horne).
*A Reflection upon one who has broken his Word to us.
Cross References
- See DÜR., II, no. 700.
- O107 An ox is taken by the horns and a man by the tongue (word).
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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