This Merina proverb highlights how emotionally painful disagreements and quarrels with loved ones can be. The pain felt during a conflict with someone we care about is often more intense than physical pain. Hence, it is often said in English: ‘Quarrels with friends are the most painful.’ This expression reminds us of the importance of nurturing harmonious relationships and resisting the temptation to engage in conflicts, as emotional wounds can be deeper and longer-lasting.