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  What it means

  A variant of the same idea: giving God a proper candle and the devil a candle stub. Someone who tries to keep both good and evil on their side, or who is two-faced in their loyalties.

  English equivalent

  To run with the hare and hunt with the hounds.

  Vocabulary

  • świeczka — candle
  • ogarek — candle stub, burnt-down candle

  Grammar note

  Dative: 'Panu Bogu' and 'diabłu' are recipients. 'Ogarek' (accusative) contrasts with 'świeczkę' ; a lesser offering to the devil.

  Cultural context

  The distinction between a full candle and a stub subtly implies the speaker still favours God, but the gesture toward the devil is telling.

  Intermediate

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