This is said of someone who harbors malice: "Do not pry into his affairs, for he will harm you with the stench of his faults." The word for dung beetle is *khunfasa*, with a long *a* sound. The female is *khunfasa*. Al-Asma'i said: It is not said *khunfasa* with a *h* sound. *Khunfus* is a variant of *khunfasa*, and the female is *khunfasa*.
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The closest English equivalent to this proverb is:
Scratch a rascal, and you'll find a rogue.
Meaning: If you investigate a corrupt person, their corruption and wickedness will be revealed.
Another related expression is:
The more you stir it, the worse it smells.
This is used to describe someone whose flaws and harmfulness are exposed when their true nature is revealed. It's very similar in meaning to the saying, "A dung beetle, if touched, stinks."
Similarly:
Some things are better left untouched.
Meaning: Some people or things, when examined closely, reveal their evil and corruption.
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