a friend is a good thing to have; a good friend is a great blessing
Proverb emphasizing the value of true friends. Often used when a friend helps you out or shows kindness.
See also: 持つべきものは友
When you help me out in a pinch, it really shows that a friend is a good thing to have.
引っ越しを手伝ってくれてありがとう。持つべきものは友人だよ。
Thanks for helping me move. A good friend is a great blessing.
Shorter variant of the same proverb, using 友 instead of 友人. Slightly more casual or poetic.
Standard kanji form of the proverb.
Variant using 物 instead of もの; less common but still encountered.
A set phrase combining 持つべき (should have) + もの (thing) + は (topic marker) + 友人 (friend). The exact origin is unclear, but it is a common Japanese proverb.