Proverbs are the easiest way of expressing well-known truths. They are based on common sense and experience. They can be used to make an argument, teach or reinforce morals, give advice, ease interpersonal tensions, promote understanding, or comfort others. Even though proverbs are culturally specific, their meaning is universal. People relate to them in some way or the other. A proverb succeeds where a long story fails. They are an impersonal vehicle for personal communication. (Barone 2021) Proverbs cover almost every facet of life and offer a link to universal truths that transcend individuals and temporal boundaries. Comparing proverbs from around the globe demonstrates that the same lesson can be learnt in a variety of cultural contexts and languages. The majority of literate societies have preserved their proverbs for future generations.

The succinct and pithy sayings are part of every spoken language and are difficult to trace. One cannot forget the sheer number of proverbial expressions in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart because “proverbs are the palm-oil with which words are eaten”, as Achebe puts it.

Here’s a list of some unique proverbs from around the world that are at once interesting and thought-provoking:

A loose tooth will not rest until it’s pulled out. — Ethiopian Proverb

This implies that until an issue or cause of discomfort is addressed and eliminated, it will not be fixed. It can serve as an example of why issues must be addressed head-on rather than ignored because doing so will only make matters worse.

He who digs too deep for a fish may come out with a snake. — African Proverb

This saying serves as a warning telling people to be aware of their boundaries and refrain from needlessly meddling in other people's personal matters. This serves as a warning against crossing lines or getting too involved in things that are not our concern because doing so may have unanticipated and possibly harmful effects.

What the child says he has heard at home . — Nigerian Proverb

This proverb highlights the importance of home training and parental influence in forming a child's behavior by stating that a child's words and actions mirror the lessons and surroundings they have been exposed to at home.

Speak the truth, but leave immediately after . — Slovenian Proverb

This implies that although being honest is vital, there are situations where it's better to avoid the possible repercussions of telling the truth, especially if they're serious or damaging The proverb recognizes the importance of integrity and honesty. This is a realistic view of the possible consequences of speaking the truth implying that the speaker might have to leave after speaking the truth in order to protect themselves.

It takes a whole village to raise a child . — African Proverb

This proverb refers to the idea that in order for children to experience and develop in a safe and healthy environment, the entire community must support and engage with them. Hillary Clinton, the first lady of the United States at the time, wrote the book It Takes a Village and Other Lessons Children Teach Us which was released in 1996

A goat’s hide buys a goat’s hide, and a gourd, a gourd. — Nandi Proverb

This proverb basically means “an eye for an eye” — that is, you get what you give, and similar things are often associated with that. This proverb is used to illustrate the idea that people are drawn to or associate with people who are similar to them and also that actions have consequences.

We tell them it is a bull, they say milk it. — Egyptian Proverb

This proverb means that sometimes when it's obvious that something isn't available people are obstinately attempting to obtain it. In its literal sense, the saying refers to a situation in which someone is confronted with an impossible task, that is milking a bull instead of a cow, and despite the stark reality insists on trying to milk it, which is a ridiculous and pointless endeavour. The proverb is used metaphorically to condemn those people who despite being told unequivocally that it is impossible, persist in trying to obtain something that is neither available nor attainable.

Go far, you'll be loved more. — Egyptian Proverb

This proverb implies that gaining success and personal development with time and distance can boost one's sense of value and admiration which in turn can lead to more affection and respect from others. This proverb is about self-awareness. It teaches that trying new things and stepping outside of your comfort zone leads to the discovery of the self. This also implies that one's character and value will be enhanced by the personal development and achievement of experiences which will result in increased respect and love from others. The proverb inspires people to follow their dreams and goals because the process of doing so can result in personal development and eventually a more contented and loved existence.

Every little pot has a fitting lid. — Dutch Proverb

This proverb implies that there is a solution for every problem or that everyone has a compatible partner.

Truth is more valuable if it takes you a few years to find it. — French Proverb

This proverb highlights that the knowledge acquired via personal experience and time is more significant and valuable than information that is easily accessible. According to the proverb, the time and effort put forth to find the truth increases the value and significance of the truth. Here truth means wisdom and knowledge. It emphasizes the value of individual development and specifically experience-based wisdom. The proverb highlights the importance of patience and perseverance.

Coffee and love taste best when hot. — Ethiopian Proverb

This proverb highlights that both love and coffee are fun when they are at their best, that is fresh and vibrant. It implies that actions are most effective when taken with purpose and at the appropriate moment. Coffee is best enjoyed hot, right out of the pot. Once it cools down it loses its flavor. Similarly, the proverb implies that love is more satisfying when it is intense and lively. The saying emphasizes the value of timing and it points out that some things are more pleasurable when at their best. The proverb inspires us to be more mindful.

Turn your face toward the sun and the shadows fall behind you. — Maori Proverb

This proverb encourages hope and optimistic thinking. As we anticipate better things the darkness fades. Rihanna wrote a song based on this proverb.

Cheese, wine, and friends must be old to be good. — Cuban Proverb

This proverb suggests that time and experience can improve the quality and value of certain things and products like fine cheese and wine. The proverb also implies that friendship, like wine and cheese, grows stronger and more enduring over time as a result of shared experiences.

Nobody wants to suckle the jaguar . — Brazilian Proverb

This proverb implies that people choose to do simpler tasks because nobody wants to be in a vulnerable or weak situation. Also, interacting with powerful or dangerous people is not something that people prefer. People don't want to be in a position where they are vulnerable or have to rely on someone who could hurt them. The proverb also serves as a cautionary tale about being too obedient or putting your trust in someone who might exploit you.

Good food is found in a poor man’s party . — Brazilian Proverb

The proverb implies that rich people value looks rather than quality. It implies that good food and hospitality can be found even in basic situations or with limited resources. It emphasizes that the standard of food or experience is independent of the ostentatious display of wealth. It also highlights that genuine uncomplicated experiences can bring about true happiness and fulfilment instead of relying on the display of money and class.

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I hope you enjoyed these proverbs.

Works Cited:

Barone, Francine. “Knowledge is power: anthropology of proverbs”

 https://hraf.yale.edu/knowledge-is-power-anthropology-of-proverbs/