This article explores the use of Russian and English proverbs in language teaching, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by their integration into modern language education. The study examines the cultural and cognitive aspects of proverbs, the impact they have on language learners' motivation, and the ways they can enhance intercultural competence. By comparing the use of proverbs in Russian and English, the article identifies key pedagogical strategies for utilizing these linguistic tools in the classroom. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis, the study highlights both the difficulties teachers face when using proverbs and the potential benefits they bring to the learning process.