“Dat dier hoor je niet als de dominee voorbij komt” is a Dutch saying that roughly translates to “You don’t hear that animal when the pastor passes by.” This expression is often used to describe someone who is quiet, well-behaved, or reserved in the presence of authority figures or people of high status.
The origin of this saying is not entirely clear, but it likely stems from a cultural tradition of showing respect and deference to religious leaders in Dutch society. The pastor or dominee holds a position of authority and moral guidance in the community, and it is expected that people behave appropriately in their presence.
In a broader sense, this saying can also be interpreted as a reminder to be mindful of one’s behavior and speech in different social contexts. It suggests that there are times when it is important to be respectful and reserved, especially when in the presence of authority figures or people of influence.
However, it is worth noting that this saying can also be interpreted in a more critical light. It may imply that people are only on their best behavior when being watched or when it benefits them in some way, rather than out of genuine respect or consideration for others.
Overall, “Dat dier hoor je niet als de dominee voorbij komt” serves as a cultural reminder of the importance of showing respect and deference in certain social situations, but also raises questions about the authenticity of people’s behavior in different contexts.