“Sá sem bíður, verður vís” – Those who wait become wise

Meaning

“Sá sem bíður, verður vís” is an Icelandic proverb that means “Those who wait become wise.” This expression conveys the lesson that being patient and waiting can lead to wisdom and insight. In other words, by observing the situation calmly and waiting, one can make the best decisions or find the right answers.

The phrase emphasizes the importance of patience and the value of taking time to grow and learn rather than demanding immediate results. In everyday life, it is used in situations where one should proceed cautiously without rushing or when enduring a difficult time while waiting for the right opportunity.

In Japanese, a similar saying is “Ishi no ue ni mo san nen” (“Three years on a stone”), which means that even in difficult situations, perseverance and sustained effort will eventually lead to success. Another comparable expression is “Mateba kairō no hiwari ari,” meaning that by waiting patiently, good things will come, reinforcing the same idea.

Origin

Iceland is a country surrounded by volcanoes and glaciers, with highly unpredictable weather. Because of this, both agriculture and fishing required people to follow nature’s rhythm. For example, fishermen had to wait for the sea to calm before setting out, and farmers needed to patiently wait for the best time to harvest their crops.

This necessity of respecting nature’s power and waiting for the right moment gave rise to this proverb. It emphasizes the importance of not acting against natural forces but instead waiting patiently for optimal conditions.

Conclusion

“Sá sem bíður, verður vís” means “Those who wait become wise,” teaching the value of taking time and being patient to gain wisdom and insight. This saying is deeply connected to Iceland’s natural environment and reflects the values of the Icelandic people, who have learned through experience to follow nature and wait for the best opportunities in the face of harsh conditions.