igbo digital
an interactive cultural space
an interactive cultural space
The ant said that he knew what it would be like for him in the rainy season, then used the dry season to gather his food
Meaning: It is best to be prepared for things.
The slave who laughs when he sees his companion's grave being dug should remember that his day is coming.
Meaning: Don't think you are so different from others. Be humble.
If you speak proverbs to a wise person, he will understand; if you speak them to a fool, he will head straight for the bush.
Meaning: Observe how people react to knowledge. Running into the bush is a sign of confusion. A calm temperament is a sign of wisdom.
You should not, until it is night time, speak badly of one who worships his personal god.
Meaning: Give some time for calmness before attacking or insulting a person.
You should not go past your farm with a thief.
Meaning: Do not bring disaster unto yourself.
One who goes to a land where they cut off ears should cut off his own and contribute it
Meaning: In a sense, if you know about how a place is, be prepared for the consequences of going there. We sleep in the bed we make.
Scoop up water while it is shallow
Meaning: Do something while it is a small issue, and don't let it wait until it requires a major effort.
The small yam is used to recognize fertile soil
Meaning: In farming, you don't know if the soil is fertile. So use a small yam, not all your yams, to find a good place. Be careful and strategic.
Adults use their eyes to divide the food in the pot
Meaning: Children and the inexperienced are know to dish out food and argue over portions. In this case, the wise are able to use their minds to make sure all are properly taken care of.
The wise child is an honor to his father
Meaning: A child should learn their proverbs. Their wisdom is a gift to their family.
If one tears his mat he sleeps on the ground
Meaning: Don't do things that will harm yourself.
A person should not, because of famine, sell the mother who bore him.
Meaning: There are things that must never be done.
One who throws away the seed pod does not realize that he has thrown away a basket of vegetables
Meaning: Understand the value of things, even if it takes hard work to turn a rock into a gem.