This proverb means that it is not the material things or places that should be avoided, but rather the words and gossip of people. It highlights the importance of being cautious about what others say, as their words can be filled with lies, falsehoods, or slander that can cause harm. In this context, it serves as a reminder to be more wary of people’s words than of objects or places. The English equivalent could be: ‘People’s words are more dangerous than things themselves.’