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  What it means

  Literally “a candle for God and a candle stub for the devil.” Means to try and stay on good terms with two opposing sides, or to be hypocritically cautious. “To run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.”

  Vocabulary

  • świeczka — candle
  • ogarek — candle stub

  Grammar note

  Uses dative 'Panu Bogu' and 'diabłu' for the recipients.

  Cultural context

  Refers to old folk traditions of ensuring safety by placating both holy and dark forces.

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