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In the Yoruba language, there are forms of speech similar to English proverbs, but not all are considered òwe in the true sense. Some sayings that might fit into the broader concept of Yoruba proverbs do not have exact matches in English proverbs. To better understand what òwe means in Yoruba, it’s helpful to look at the word’s origin.
The word òwe is believed to come from the phrase ò-wé e, which means “something that wraps it up.” The verb wé means “to wrap” or “to cover” something around another object. The ò at the beginning is a prefix that turns a verb into a noun, much like in English we add suffixes like “-ist” or “-er” to verbs to make them nouns. When the word wé is shortened, it becomes we, and when we add the pronoun e (meaning “it”), we get òwe. So, òwe is about wrapping something up or comparing one thing to another.
In Yoruba, when we compare two things, we use the phrase fi (noun 1) wé (noun 2), which means “to wrap (noun 1) around (noun 2).” This demonstrates that, in the Yoruba way of thinking, comparing is like bringing two things together to see their similarities more clearly. This concept is also found in Yoruba riddles, or àlẹ̀, where one thing (the answer to the riddle) is described using something else that shares the same qualities.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of these famous Yoruba proverbs, idioms, and cultural wisdom. We’ll explore their meanings and see how they can guide us in our daily lives. So, grab a seat, and let’s start.
Yoruba Proverbs
Yoruba proverbs, called owe in the Yoruba language, are short but powerful sayings that carry important lessons about life. These sayings reflect the values, and experiences of the Yoruba people. They are used in conversations, storytelling, and ceremonies, and they help shape the way the Yoruba people think and act. Proverbs are so important in Yoruba culture that they are often seen as a form of teaching and a way to pass down knowledge from one generation to the next.
Importance of Proverbs
In Yoruba society, proverbs play a big role in communication. Elders are especially skilled in using proverbs to make their points clearer and to give their words more weight. Proverbs help to teach younger generations important life lessons. Some proverbs are about personal behaviour, while others are about community life.
Here are a few ways proverbs are used in Yoruba society:
Teaching and Learning: Proverbs help teach right from wrong. Instead of giving direct orders, elders use proverbs to encourage people to think about the consequences of their actions. For example, a proverb might remind someone that their actions will have effects on other people, or that they should always choose patience over anger.
Emphasising Values: Proverbs show important Yoruba values like honesty, respect, hard work, and patience. These values are at the heart of many proverbs and help to guide how people should behave in their everyday lives.
Moral Guidance: Proverbs offer advice on how to deal with difficult situations. Whether it is dealing with personal challenges or handling tricky relationships, proverbs provide wisdom on how to make the best choices and live a good life.
Examples of Yoruba Proverbs and Their Meanings
Let’s look at some popular Yoruba proverbs and what they mean.
Ìwà lẹ̀sìn; bí a bá ṣe mọ̀ ọ́ hù ni í ṣeé gbe’ni
Meaning: Character is like religion; how good one’s character is, that is how well it favours one.
Explanation: Just as a person’s faith or belief system can influence their actions and relationships, so does one’s character determine their success. A good character attracts good things like respect, trust, and fortune. On the other hand, a bad character can lead to rejection, missed opportunities, and hardship. How you act is the key to how life will treat you.
Bí a bá dé ìlú táà léèyàn, ìwà rere làá ní
Meaning: If you are new in a town, knowing no one, simply be armed with good character.
Explanation: Good character is a universal currency. If you are in a new place and don’t know anyone, showing kindness, honesty, and integrity is the best way to gain respect and acceptance. People will naturally be drawn to you and trust you, making it easier to build relationships. Without good character, even the best resources will fail to bring success.
Kò sí ohun tó ní ìbẹ̀rẹ̀ tí kò ní lópin
Meaning: There is nothing that has a beginning that won’t have an ending.
Explanation: This proverb serves as a reminder that all situations, whether good or bad, are temporary. Everything in life has a start and an end. This message encourages patience and resilience, urging you to endure difficult times and appreciate the good moments because they, too, will eventually come to an end.
Yàgò lọ́ná káyé ó rí mi; àsìkò ẹ̀ ó tíì tó ní; bí àsìkò bá tó gbogbo ayé ló máa rí i
Meaning: Move aside and let the world see me; his/her time is not due yet; once the time is right, the whole world will acknowledge him/her.
Explanation: Everyone has their moment in the spotlight. Life unfolds in stages, and it is important to wait for your own time to shine. Patience is key—when your time comes, the world will notice your talents and efforts. Don’t rush or compare your journey to others; success will come at the right time.
Ìgbà ò lọ bí òréré; ayé ò lọ bí ọ̀pá ìbọn
Meaning: No season goes on endlessly; life isn’t always as straight as the barrel of a gun.
Explanation: Life is full of ups and downs. Just as seasons change, so do our circumstances. This proverb teaches that no difficulty is permanent, and good times will eventually return. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance, as everything in life is cyclical, and change is inevitable.
Ìjì layé; tó bá fì síwájú, á tún fì sẹ́hìn ni
Meaning: Life is a storm; if it blows forward, it will often blow backward, as well.
Explanation: Life can be unpredictable, and just like a storm, it can bring both forward momentum and setbacks. This proverb reminds us that challenges and successes are part of life’s cycle. When things are going well, be aware that difficulties might follow, and when times are tough, remember that better days will come.
Olórí aṣọ ḿbọ̀ wá di àkísà lọ́jọ́ kan
Meaning: The favourite clothes of today will one day become rags.
Explanation: This teaches humility and the inevitability of change. The things we value most today may not retain their worth tomorrow. This proverb reminds us that nothing lasts forever, and it encourages us to stay humble, as today’s success can fade with time.
Bàtà orí àkìtàn náà re òde ìyàwó rí
Meaning: The pair of shoes now on the refuse dump was once worn to a wedding.
Explanation: Everything changes with time. What is considered valuable today can be discarded tomorrow. This proverb encourages humility and reminds us that material things or status can change, urging us not to get too attached to fleeting success. Appreciate the present, but be mindful of the future.
Ọ̀rẹ́ ọdún mẹ́ta ò tó ẹni tí à ńgbára á lé; ọ̀tá oṣù mẹ́fà ò tó ẹni tí à ńsà lóògùn
Meaning: A friend of three years is not one to be fully trusted; an enemy of six months is not one to be attacked with charms.
Explanation: Relationships take time to develop, and trust cannot be given too quickly. Similarly, enemies should not be underestimated or provoked hastily. This proverb advises patience and discernment, urging us to not rush into making judgments about people based on limited experience.
Ẹni ọ̀rẹ́ dà, kó má ṣe bí’nú; ẹni abínibí dá’ni
Meaning: Those betrayed by friends shouldn’t be offended; even siblings betray each other.
Explanation: Betrayal can come from those we trust the most, including friends and even family. This proverb teaches tolerance and forgiveness, encouraging us to not hold grudges, as it’s a part of life. Letting go of hurt allows you to move forward and protect your mental health.
Àjùmọ̀bí ò kan t’àánú; ẹni orí rán sí’ni ló ńṣe’ni lóore
Meaning: To be related to someone by blood does not guarantee to receive his or her support; help comes only from those divinely sent to one.
Explanation: This proverb highlights that true help doesn’t always come from the people we expect. Just because someone is a relative doesn’t mean they will always support you in times of need. True help often comes from unexpected sources, so it’s important to keep an open mind and be receptive to help when it arrives.
Ṣàṣà ènìyàn ni í fẹ́ni lẹ́yìn báà sí nílé; tajá tẹran ni í fẹ́ni lójú ẹni
Meaning: Precious few will love you behind your back; everyone loves you to your face.
Explanation: People often show loyalty and affection publicly, but genuine love and support are tested in private. This proverb advises caution, as not everyone who praises you in front of you is genuinely supportive. Some people may only flatter you for personal gain. Be mindful of who truly has your back.
Ìgbà ìpọ́njú là ńmọ ọ̀rẹ́; ọjọ́ tó bá burú là ńmọ ẹni tó fẹ́’ni
Meaning: It’s during tough times that true friends are known; when things are really difficult, you’ll know those who truly care.
Explanation: Hardships are a test of loyalty. During times of trouble, you will discover who your real friends are, as they are the ones who stay by your side and offer support. This proverb encourages you to appreciate those who are there for you when things are tough, as they are the ones who truly care.
Yoruba Idioms
In addition to proverbs, the Yoruba language has many idioms (called àpèjúwe or ọ̀rọ̀-ìtàn). These idioms make the language more colorful and creatively convey meaning. While proverbs usually give clear moral lessons, idioms use vivid images or comparisons, making them easier to remember and more powerful. Some idioms in the Yoruba language include:
Fori Jale Agbon – In Trouble
This idiom is used when someone is in deep trouble. If you’re “jale agbon,” it’s like getting yourself stuck in a difficult situation, just like being “in hot water” in English. It’s a way to say someone is in big trouble!
Je Ori Ahun – Stingy
“Je Ori Ahun” describes someone who is very stingy. This person is unwilling to share, even when they have plenty. It’s like saying someone is “tight-fisted” and doesn’t want to spend or give to others.
Siso Loju Eegun – Say the Truth
This means you should speak the truth, even when it’s hard. The word “eegun” means a masquerade, which hides the person behind it. So, this idiom encourages you to be honest and not hide the truth behind a mask.
Akara Tu Si Epo – The Secret Has Been Leaked
This idiom is used when a secret is no longer a secret. It’s like someone has spilled the beans, and the hidden information has been revealed for everyone to know.
Tun Ifun Oro – Make Unnecessary Enquiries
This is used when someone keeps asking questions that aren’t important or necessary. It’s a bit like being nosy or prying into something that doesn’t concern you.
Eja N Bakan? – Is it Positive or Negative?
This idiom is used when you’re unsure about a situation. It’s like asking, “Is this good or bad?” It expresses doubt or uncertainty about something happening around you.
Je Iyan Nisu – Be Punished
If you’ve done something wrong, you will face the consequences. “Iyan” is a type of food (pounded yam), and this idiom suggests that you’ll be “punished” or made to face the results of your actions, like paying the price for your mistakes.
Ejo Lowo Ninu – Someone is Behind It
This idiom suggests that there is someone behind a situation, even if you can’t see them. It’s like saying, “Someone is pulling the strings,” or there’s a hidden hand influencing what’s happening.
Gbe Ounje Ale Fun Ologbo – Give Something You Will Need in the Future to Someone Else
This is a warning not to be short-sighted. Don’t give away things that you might need later on. It’s like loaning something important to someone else without thinking of your own future needs.
Fi Owo Mewa Jeun – Spend Without Saving
If you spend all your money without saving any for the future, you’ll find yourself in trouble. This idiom teaches the importance of saving for rainy days instead of spending everything at once.
Je Egun Moyan – Do Something Like a Taboo
This means doing something that’s forbidden or considered very wrong in society. It’s like breaking an important rule or going against a cultural norm. It’s a big no-no!
Doko Dele Danimo – Reached the End of Overdo
When you’ve gone too far and overdone something, this idiom is used. It’s like saying you’ve crossed the line and now you must face the consequences of going too far with something.
Je Agborin Esi Lobe – Bring Up an Outdated Issue
This idiom is used when someone talks about something that is no longer relevant. It’s like bringing up an old argument that doesn’t matter anymore or sticking to outdated ways when you should be moving forward.
Je Eran Deegun – Become Poor After Wealth
This refers to someone who once had money or success but lost it all. They may have spent recklessly or made poor decisions, and now they’re back to being poor after once having wealth.
Fie Eje Dudu Sinu Tu Funfun Sita – Deceitful
This idiom describes someone who is deceitful, like pretending to be good while hiding bad intentions. “Eje dudu” (dark blood) and “tu funfun” (turning white) show how someone can hide their true feelings or actions behind a mask.
Sin Ni Gbere Ipako – Inform Someone
This idiom is used when someone delivers important information or news. It’s like being the messenger who is sharing critical news, whether good or bad.
Fi Iru Fona – Find Trouble for Yourself
This idiom describes someone who gets themselves into trouble through their own actions. It’s like walking straight into a mess or causing problems for themselves by making bad decisions.
Dunro – In Pain
This is a simple way of saying someone is in pain, either physically or emotionally. It’s used to express that someone is suffering or hurting in some way.
Ijimere Gun Igi Aladi – Does Something Disgraceful
This idiom is used for someone who behaves in a way that brings shame or dishonour. It’s like making a fool of yourself in front of others or doing something that is deeply disrespectful.
Erin Wo – An Icon/Great Man Just Died
When a great leader or a respected person dies, people use this idiom to show that a significant figure has passed away. It’s a way of expressing the sadness and loss of someone important.
Ge Iganna – Perform Foolishly
This idiom is used when someone acts foolishly or makes a bad decision. It’s like doing something without thinking it through, leading to a silly or unwise outcome.
Tafa Sinu Ikudu – Invest in an Unprofitable Business
This idiom warns against putting your money or energy into something that will not bring a return. It’s like throwing your money away on a bad investment that’s bound to fail.
Je Ije Awonye – Be Covetous
If someone is always wanting more than they deserve, this idiom describes them as covetous. It’s about being greedy and wanting what belongs to others instead of appreciating what you already have.
Na Papa Bora – Run Away
This idiom is used when someone flees from a situation, often because they are too scared or unwilling to face the challenge ahead. It’s like running away from a problem instead of dealing with it head-on.
Cultural Wisdom
Cultural wisdom is knowledge passed down from generation to generation. It guides how people live together, treat their families, and relate to others. It is not just about rules but about understanding how to live in harmony with the world around you. Yoruba wisdom also encompasses spirituality, as many proverbs and idioms show respect for the divine.
Cultural wisdom helps people live their lives with respect, patience, and understanding. It teaches individuals to consider others and make decisions that benefit the community and the individual.
The Role of Cultural Wisdom in Yoruba Life
In Yoruba society, wisdom holds great importance. It shapes the way people think and behave. This wisdom is closely tied to family, community, and spirituality significance. Here are some key ideas behind Yoruba cultural wisdom:
Respect for Elders: Elders are seen as wise and experienced, and their advice is highly valued. Younger people are expected to listen and learn from them.
Community and Family: The well-being of the family and community comes first. People are encouraged to act in ways that benefit everyone, not just themselves.
Spirituality: Many Yoruba proverbs and idioms highlight spirituality as a vital aspect of life. The divine plays a role in everyday actions, and many proverbs remind people to live in a way that is respectful to the gods and their creator.
References
Yoruba Proverbs (@yoruba_proverbs) / X
50 YORUBA PROVERBS AND IDIOMS — Steemit
Yoruba Proverbs – oyekan owomoyela
Some Yoruba Idioms And Its English Meaning – Education – Nairaland
16 Yoruba Proverbs and Their Meanings | Zikoko!
