It was said: “If you have money, don’t buy land by the river, and if you’re wealthy, don’t marry a second wife.” However, many of the prejudices that guided that mindset have changed in the modern world.
Why shouldn’t you buy land by the river if you have money, and why shouldn’t you marry a second wife if you’re wealthy?
The old proverb states: “If you have money, don’t buy land by the river, and if you’re wealthy, don’t marry a second wife.” The meaning of this phrase is that when you have money and want to invest in land, you should not buy land by the river, even if it is fertile.
The reason is that according to the experience of our ancestors, land by the river is often low-lying, so when there is heavy rain, the river water can rise, or in the event of a flood, it cannot be contained, which can lead to loss of life and property for you and your family, posing unforeseen risks of disaster. Therefore, this saying is not only a piece of advice on investing wisely but also a warning to carefully consider natural factors before making decisions.
The meaning of this phrase is that when you have money and want to invest in land, you should not buy land by the river, even if it is fertile.
The second part of the saying, “if you’re wealthy, don’t marry a second wife,” reflects the views of the ancients on marriage. They did not value remarriage because they placed great importance on a woman’s “three obediences and four virtues.” They believed that once a woman was married, she had to be faithful to her husband, devote all of her love and loyalty to her marriage, and take responsibility for raising her children.
The second part of the saying, “if you’re wealthy, don’t marry a second wife,” reflects the views of the ancients on marriage.
At the same time, women in the past also treasured their honor. Therefore, if a woman remarried, society would view it as a violation of ethics and traditional customs, and she would often be ostracized by her husband’s family.
Does this saying still hold true in the modern era?
At the same time, in today’s society, remarriage is considered a personal right and is no longer a matter of moral controversy or serious social stigma as it once was.
The second part of the proverb reflects ancient views on marriage and a woman’s role. “Three obediences and four virtues” were highly valued, emphasizing a married woman’s faithfulness, devotion, and responsibility in child-rearing. Remarriage was seen as a violation of ethics and traditional customs, often leading to ostracization.
While the proverb offers wise advice on investing and considering natural hazards, the perspective on remarriage has evolved. Today, remarriage is viewed as a personal right, free from moral controversy and social stigma. Society now recognizes an individual’s freedom to choose their marital path, regardless of wealth or social status.
