The phrase alludes to a period of significant hardship or prolonged challenges experienced within the state. It suggests a time marked by difficulty, perhaps economically or socially, drawing a parallel to the bleakness and rigor associated with the winter season. The number seven implies an extended duration of these trials.
Understanding this idiom offers insights into the resilience and adaptability of the population during times of adversity. Its historical context is rooted in the agrarian experiences of the region, where agricultural failures or economic downturns could precipitate widespread suffering. The phrase emphasizes the endurance required to overcome prolonged periods of difficulty.
