expression
blessed are the peacemakers; appreciate a mediator's advice
Proverb meaning that a well-timed greeting or mediation can resolve disputes as effectively as a god's intervention. Often used to encourage accepting a third party's conciliatory efforts.
「挨拶は時の氏神」というから、彼の仲裁を受け入れたほうがいい。
As the saying goes, 'a greeting is a god in times of need,' so you'd better accept his mediation.
The phrase literally means 'a greeting is the local deity of the moment.' It suggests that a timely, well-placed greeting or mediation can be as effective as divine intervention in resolving conflicts. The exact origin is uncertain, but it reflects traditional Japanese values of harmony and respect for mediators.