That’s also how this Dutchwoman interprets it. But of course, while it literally refers to the creation of polders, the figurative meaning is ‘faith might have its place, but science and hard work are what solve problems’, like PhilosophyTutor said. (With a little bit of ‘Gee, aren’t we Dutch GREAT?’ thrown in. ;p)
That’s the interpretation given in this French children’s book, where I first encountered the proverb.
That’s also how this Dutchwoman interprets it. But of course, while it literally refers to the creation of polders, the figurative meaning is ‘faith might have its place, but science and hard work are what solve problems’, like PhilosophyTutor said. (With a little bit of ‘Gee, aren’t we Dutch GREAT?’ thrown in. ;p)