Meaning
This proverb warns against focusing on saving small amounts of money while ignoring larger, more significant expenses. Being overly frugal in minor matters but careless in major decisions can lead to bigger losses. Wise financial planning requires balancing small savings with attention to major investments or risks.
Understanding the Idea
Short-term savings are meaningless if they cause greater losses; prioritize wisely between minor and major expenditures.
A Beautiful and Relatable Moral Story
Ramesh bought cheap, low-quality tools for his carpentry business to save a few rupees. Soon, the tools broke, delaying projects and frustrating clients. He realized that his small savings caused bigger losses in time, reputation, and income. Later, Ramesh invested in high-quality tools, which lasted longer and improved productivity. He learned that focusing on trivial savings while ignoring bigger consequences is unwise.
Moral: Avoid short-sighted frugality; small savings should not lead to significant losses.