Most stable combinations are rooted in the Church Slavonic language. Such phrases were included in the active reserve of the Russian language, but retained their original meaning. Bible expressions are used by native speakers in various fields of communication. In the colloquial style, they are used most often.
What does "throw beads in front of pigs" mean?
In modern Russian, the expression "throw beads in front of pigs" took root after the publication of the famous comedy D.I. Fonvizina "Undergrowth". One of the heroes in his monologue says that on his statement on expulsion from the theological seminary it was written: “To dismiss from all the doctrine: it is written that there is - do not roll the beads in front of the pigs, but do not trample it underfoot”. It is in this meaning that people use phraseology today. However, in the process of semantic development, this expression has undergone some semantic changes.
Traditional interpretation
The gospel is a traditional source of the enduring expression "throwing beads before the pigs." "Do not give the shrine to the dogs and do not throw your pearls before the pigs, lest they trample it underfoot with their feet and, turning, do not tear you to pieces." This sentence is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew in verse 7 of chapter 6. The direct meaning - do not humble yourself and pay attention to unworthy people. It is important to note that in ancient times small river pearls, which were obtained in large quantities in local rivers, were considered to be beads. Such pierced pearls decorated clothes. Subsequently, pearls and any small glass objects intended for needlework, began to be called beads. Therefore, pearls ceased to be associated in the minds of native speakers with a precious stone, that is, they depreciated. In this regard, the expression “throwing beads in front of pigs” has come to mean “say something to those who cannot understand and appreciate it”.
Some linguists believe that the original meaning of phraseology was lost due to the initial distortion of the biblical phrase. The meaning of the phrase is directly related to the fact that you should not trust the sacred to people who do not believe in the highest spiritual values of the world and do not believe in the divine principle. By trusting them, you blaspheme and insult God. Jesus calls not to throw precious pearls before pigs, who cannot appreciate anything sacred. As a result, pearls become cheap beads, and the biblical basis of phraseology becomes meaningless.
