This proverb means that it is preferable to bear guilt or disapproval from humans than from God because the spiritual and moral consequences are much more severe. In many cultures, including the Merina culture of Madagascar, the belief in divine judgment is strong, and the fear of divine punishment outweighs social disapproval. An equivalent proverb in English could be ‘Better the blushing cheek than the pale heart’ or ‘Fear God and keep His commandments’.