A proverb is a brief, provocative saying that expresses practical wisdom in colorful language. Often, it is a principle dressed up in an illustration. Those who don't serve well end up losing. Proverbs occur in every culture as a means of communicating values and principles. The images they use are not only memorable, but they also open up areas of the mind and heart that are energized by concrete word pictures more than by mere ideas.
Proverbs are useful because they can be applied to many situations.
A mother may use it to express her opinion of her daughter's short skirt. A teacher may use it in conversation with another instructor who has enhanced the grades of a football star to protect the athlete's eligibility.