Senegal, often revered as the "Pays de la Teranga" or the Land of Hospitality, possesses a cultural heartbeat that echoes through the rhythmic wisdom of its oral traditions. At the center of this philosophical landscape is the Wolof culture, the dominant ethnic group whose language serves as the lingua franca of the nation. The concept of Teranga is not merely a word for welcome; it is a complex social contract encompassing generosity, spiritual openness, and the communal sharing of one's resources, no matter how meager. This spirit is meticulously preserved and transmitted through leebou (proverbs), which serve as the legal, moral, and educational framework of traditional society.
The oral tradition in Senegal is guarded by the Griots (or Gewel in Wolof), the hereditary historians, praise-singers, and storytellers who have kept the archives of West African civilizations alive for centuries. In a society where the written word was historically secondary to the spoken word, proverbs became the vessels for carrying ancestral knowledge across generations. These sayings are not simple clichés; they are dense, metaphorical puzzles that require life experience to fully decode. They govern everything from conflict resolution in village squares to the upbringing of children within the compound, blending indigenous African spirituality with Sufi Islamic values that have permeated the region for a millennium.
To understand Wolof wisdom is to understand a worldview that prioritizes the collective over the individual and dignity (Jom) over material wealth. The imagery used in these proverbs draws heavily from the Sahelian landscape—the baobab tree, the savanna, the hyena, and the rhythms of the rainy season—grounding high philosophy in the tangible realities of daily life. The language is direct yet layered, often using humor and irony to critique human behavior without causing public offense, preserving the social harmony that is paramount in Senegalese life.
In this comprehensive collection, we explore the depth of Senegalese philosophy. These sayings offer a window into a culture that values patience, respects the hierarchy of age, and views speech as a powerful tool that must be wielded with extreme caution. Here is the timeless wisdom of the Wolof people, translated and interpreted for the modern seeker of truth.
POPULAR PROVERBS
The Essence of Teranga: Community and Relationships
"Man is the remedy for man."
This is perhaps the most famous defining philosophy of Senegalese culture, encapsulating the interdependence of humanity. It suggests that isolation is a sickness and that the cure for human suffering is found in the company and support of others. In the Wolof worldview, psychological and emotional health are inextricably linked to one’s integration into the community. No individual can thrive alone; we are the medicine that heals our neighbors' sorrows.
"A guest is a God."
This proverb forms the bedrock of Teranga, elevating the status of a visitor to the divine. When a stranger arrives at a Senegalese home, they are treated with the highest honor, often receiving the best portion of the meal and the most comfortable seat, regardless of the host's financial status. It implies that serving a guest is a spiritual act, a way of manifesting one's faith and humanity. To turn a guest away or treat them poorly is to invite bad fortune and spiritual disgrace.
"Hold a true friend with both hands."
Friendship in Wolof culture is viewed as a fragile yet essential bond that requires active maintenance and protection. Using "both hands" signifies a total commitment and the exertion of maximum effort to keep the relationship secure. It warns against taking loyalty for granted, suggesting that a true friend is a rare treasure that, once found, must be guarded with physical and emotional intensity. Losing a friend through negligence is considered a sign of foolishness.
"If you want to know a man, ask his neighbors."
Personal reputation is not built on self-proclaimed virtues but on the daily interactions one has with those living closest to them. In the close-quarters living of Senegalese villages and compounds, one's true character—patience, generosity, and temper—is impossible to hide from neighbors. This saying serves as a reminder that character is defined by how we treat people when we think no one of importance is watching. The community's consensus is the ultimate judge of integrity.
"Whatever you share, you do not lose."
This adage challenges the Western concept of accumulation, positing that generosity is an investment rather than a subtraction. By giving away food, money, or time, one builds social capital and spiritual merit that will return in times of need. It reinforces the safety net of the community, where hoarding is seen as a pathway to poverty of the soul. True wealth is measured by what flows through your hands to others, not what remains in your pocket.
"The eyes of the guest see what the host does not."
A fresh perspective can reveal flaws or beauties that have become invisible to those who live with them daily. This proverb teaches humility and the value of outside counsel, suggesting that familiarity breeds blindness. It encourages hosts to listen to visitors, as their detached observation allows for a clarity that emotional attachment often obscures. It is also a warning to behave well, as the guest observes the cracks in the household's harmony that the family tries to ignore.
"To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance, but to love others is the path to immortality."
While self-respect (Fayda) is important, this proverb elevates altruism as the only way to achieve a legacy that outlasts death. In oral traditions, one "lives" as long as their name is spoken with gratitude. By loving and serving the community, an individual ensures their memory is woven into the collective history. Self-love ends in the grave, but communal love echoes through generations of storytellers.
"One finger cannot lift a pebble."
This serves as a visual lesson in the necessity of cooperation and unity. Just as the hand needs multiple fingers to function, a society needs the collaboration of different individuals to overcome even the smallest obstacles. It is often used to quell internal disputes, reminding feuding parties that division renders them weak and ineffectual. Success is a collective mechanical action, not a solo endeavor.
"United, the ants can carry the elephant."
Expanding on the theme of unity, this proverb emphasizes that size and individual power are irrelevant in the face of organized collective effort. It is a message of hope for the marginalized or the poor, stating that when the "small" people coordinate their efforts, they can topple or transport the "giants" of the world. It speaks to the political and social power inherent in the masses when they share a single vision.
"The tongue that says 'mine' divides; the tongue that says 'ours' unites."
Language shapes reality, and this saying highlights the destructive nature of possessiveness versus the constructive nature of sharing. In a communal society, claiming exclusive ownership is often seen as an act of aggression against the group's harmony. Using inclusive language is not just a grammatical choice but a moral stance that invites peace and cooperation. It urges people to view resources as communal blessings rather than private conquests.
"Solitude is a bad counselor."
When left alone with one's thoughts, a person is prone to paranoia, selfishness, and distorted thinking. The Wolof culture places immense value on consensus and discussion (wahtaan), believing that truth is found in dialogue. This proverb warns against making major decisions in isolation, as the lack of external perspective often leads to errors in judgment. Wisdom requires the sounding board of the community.
"He who eats alone chokes alone."
This is a stark warning against selfishness, implying that hoarding resources leads to danger without assistance. If you do not share your feast, no one will be there to help you when you face a crisis (symbolized by choking). It suggests that the enjoyment of wealth is safer and more pleasurable when it is shared. Greed isolates a person, leaving them vulnerable to life's inevitable accidents.
"It is the human being that counts."
In a world increasingly driven by technology and commerce, this proverb recenters focus on the human element. It reminds leaders and individuals alike that structures, money, and laws are useless if they do not serve human dignity. It is often used to justify breaking a rigid rule to help a person in need, prioritizing compassion over bureaucracy. The ultimate value in the Wolof cosmos is the preservation of human life and dignity.
"A bad neighbor is like a thorn in the foot."
Living next to someone who is contentious or malicious causes a constant, nagging pain that makes every step in life difficult. Unlike a major injury that heals, a thorn causes persistent irritation that ruins one's peace of mind. This proverb encourages people to resolve conflicts with neighbors quickly, as a discordant home environment poisons all other aspects of life. It also serves as a warning to be a good neighbor oneself.
"Blood is heavy."
This signifies the weight and obligation of family ties. You cannot easily discard or ignore your kin because the bond of blood carries a gravitational pull that demands responsibility. Even when family members are difficult, the "heaviness" of the bond means you must carry them. It speaks to the inescapable duty one has toward their lineage, regardless of personal conflicts.
"The herd that has no shepherd is devoured by the hyena."
Leadership is essential for the survival of any group. Without guidance, structure, and protection, a community becomes vulnerable to external threats (the hyena). This proverb validates the role of elders and leaders, reminding the youth that total freedom without direction leads to destruction. It is a call for responsible governance and the necessity of respecting authority figures who watch over the group.
"Two eyes see better than one."
A simple yet profound endorsement of collaboration and consultation. No matter how sharp one's vision is, it is limited by perspective and blind spots. Adding another person's viewpoint doubles the capacity to perceive reality accurately. It is often used to encourage people to seek a second opinion before making a decision or to accept help when it is offered.
"The friendship of the water and the fish is eternal."
This metaphor describes a relationship of absolute necessity and perfect harmony. The fish cannot survive without the water, and the water is lifeless without the fish. It describes bonds that are organic and symbiotic, such as the relationship between a mother and child or a person and their culture. It suggests that some connections are not choices but fundamental laws of nature.
"If you help the community, you build your own house."
Civic duty is framed here as self-interest. By contributing to the stability and prosperity of the village or neighborhood, you ensure a safe and stable environment for your own dwelling. Neglecting the public good eventually leads to the deterioration of one's private sanctuary. It teaches that there is no distinction between public service and personal security.
"Peace does not make a noise."
True harmony is characterized by a lack of drama, conflict, and loud proclamations. When things are working well in a relationship or a community, there is a quiet rhythm to life. This proverb cautions against those who constantly speak of peace but create chaos; true peace is felt in the tranquility of the atmosphere, not heard in speeches. It values the quiet, steady work of maintaining social balance.
Wisdom on Patience, Resilience, and Destiny
"Softly, softly catches the monkey in the bush."
This is one of the most iconic Wolof proverbs (Ndank-ndank moy japp golo ci ñaay). It teaches that brute force and haste are ineffective against agility and intelligence. To achieve a difficult goal (catching a monkey), one must use stealth, patience, and strategy. It is applied to business, courtship, and problem-solving, advising that a slow, calculated approach yields better results than rushing.
"The sun does not forget a village just because it is small."
Destiny and divine providence are universal; no one is too insignificant to receive their share of blessings. This proverb offers hope to the poor and the marginalized, reminding them that the forces of nature and God treat everyone with the same laws. It encourages patience and faith, suggesting that one's time in the light will come regardless of their social station.
"He who wants honey must brave the bees."
Success always comes with a price and a risk. The sweetness of the reward (honey) is guarded by the pain of the effort (bees). This proverb is used to motivate people who are afraid of taking risks or who complain about the difficulties of their work. It asserts that there is no reward without resilience and the courage to face potential pain.
"Patience is a smile that hides a wound."
This definition of patience (Mun) moves beyond simple waiting; it describes a stoic endurance of suffering. True patience involves maintaining a pleasant and dignified exterior while enduring internal hardship. It speaks to the concept of Jom (dignity/honor), where one does not burden others with their pain but carries it with grace. It is a highly respected trait in Senegalese culture.
"The night is the queen of shadows, but the sun is the king of truth."
Darkness may hide deeds and secrets for a time, but the light of day inevitably reveals everything. This proverb warns against clandestine actions and dishonesty, as exposure is only a matter of time. It also offers comfort to those who have been wronged, promising that the truth will eventually vindicate them. It speaks to the cyclical nature of justice.
"Haste gives birth to 'I wish I had known.'"
Regret is the child of rushing. When we act without thinking, we invariably make mistakes that lead to the lament of "had I known." This saying urges people to pause and deliberate before acting, as the time spent thinking is far less than the time spent regretting. It is a counsel against impulsiveness in decision-making.
"Even the lion, the king of the forest, protects himself against flies."
No matter how powerful or resilient one is, small irritations and minor threats can still cause damage. This proverb warns against arrogance and complacency. It suggests that one must remain vigilant against even the smallest problems, as ignoring them because of one's perceived strength can lead to downfall. It emphasizes that vulnerability is universal.
"The river that forgets its source dries up."
This speaks to the importance of remembering one's origins, ancestors, and history. A person who disconnects from their roots loses the cultural and spiritual nourishment that sustains them. It is a warning against assimilation or arrogance when one achieves success. Resilience is found in staying connected to the traditions and people that formed you.
"God is not asleep."
A concise reminder of divine justice and providence. When a person is suffering injustice or hardship, this proverb is spoken to remind them that a higher power is witnessing everything and will eventually intervene. It encourages resilience and moral fortitude, assuring the listener that the current state of affairs is not permanent because the ultimate Judge is watchful.
"The moon moves slowly, but it crosses the town."
Progress does not need to be fast to be effective; it just needs to be consistent. Like the moon, which seems to hang still but eventually traverses the entire sky, a person who persists will eventually reach their destination. This proverb is used to encourage those who feel their progress is too slow, validating the power of steady, quiet movement.
"What the storm breaks was already cracked."
Crises reveal the structural weaknesses that were already present. When a relationship ends or a business fails during hard times, it is because the foundation was not solid. This proverb teaches people to look at the root causes of failure rather than blaming external circumstances. It encourages building resilience and integrity before the storm arrives.
"If you are in a hurry, sit down."
This paradoxical advice suggests that when the mind is racing and the impulse to rush is strong, that is exactly the moment one needs to stop. Rushing leads to mistakes that cause delays, so the fastest way to finish is to pause and compose oneself. It is a technique for mastering anxiety and regaining control over a chaotic situation.
"To trip is not to fall."
Making a mistake or encountering a setback is not the end of the journey. This proverb distinguishes between a temporary stumble and a total collapse. It encourages resilience, reminding people that everyone makes errors, but character is defined by the ability to recover one's balance and keep moving. It rejects the idea of perfectionism.
"The morning does not know what the evening will bring."
Life is unpredictable, and fortunes can change in a single day. This saying promotes humility in good times and hope in bad times. It reminds the wealthy that they could lose everything by sunset, and the poor that their luck could turn. It anchors the Senegalese worldview in a pragmatic acceptance of uncertainty.
"Pain is like a fabric; the more you wash it, the more it fades."
Time heals emotional wounds. Just as repeated washing fades the color of a cloth, the passage of time and the processing of grief eventually lessen the intensity of pain. This proverb is used to console the grieving, offering a gentle promise that the sharpness of their sorrow will not last forever, even if the memory remains.
"A tree does not move, but its seeds travel."
While a person may be rooted in one place or circumstance, their influence (children, ideas, deeds) can spread far and wide. It speaks to the legacy of stability. One does not need to be a wanderer to have a global impact; by staying grounded and producing good "fruit," one's essence can travel the world.
"The beautiful fig may contain a worm."
Appearances can be deceiving. Something that looks perfect and desirable on the outside may be rotten internally. This proverb warns against judging by surface aesthetics, whether in choosing a spouse, a business deal, or a leader. It encourages looking deeper than the skin or the packaging to find the true quality of a thing.
"When the music changes, so does the dance."
Adaptability is the key to survival. One cannot continue to act in the same way when the circumstances (the music) have shifted. This proverb counsels flexibility and the willingness to change strategies in response to new realities. Sticking to old ways when the world has changed is seen as a lack of rhythm and wisdom.
"He who waits for the river to dry up before crossing will wait forever."
Some obstacles will never disappear, and one must learn to navigate them rather than waiting for them to vanish. This proverb criticizes procrastination disguised as caution. It urges people to take action despite the difficulties, as waiting for perfect conditions is a recipe for stagnation.
"Only the knife knows what is in the heart of the pumpkin."
We cannot truly know what is inside a person—their thoughts, pain, or intentions—until they are "opened up" by experience or crisis. It warns against making assumptions about others' internal states. It also implies that some truths are only revealed through painful or invasive processes.
The Power of Speech, Silence, and Discretion
"The tongue has no bone, but it can break a bone."
Words are soft and physically insubstantial, yet they possess the power to destroy lives, reputations, and relationships. This vivid imagery reminds the speaker that verbal abuse or gossip can inflict injuries as severe as physical violence. It is a stern warning to control one's speech, as the damage done by words is often irreparable.
"Words are like bullets; once fired, they cannot be recalled."
Similar to the previous proverb, this emphasizes the irreversibility of speech. Once a secret is told or an insult is hurled, no amount of apology can undo the act. It urges a high degree of caution and forethought before speaking. In a culture with a strong oral tradition, the permanence of the spoken word is taken very seriously.
"A secret is a slave as long as you keep it, but you become its slave once you tell it."
When you hold a secret, you have power over it. The moment you share it, you lose control, and the information (and the person who knows it) now has power over you. This proverb advises extreme discretion. It suggests that true freedom lies in the ability to keep one's own counsel and not burden others with sensitive information.
"The mouth that eats does not talk."
This has a double meaning. Literally, it is bad manners to talk with food in your mouth. Metaphorically, it means that if you are benefiting from someone's generosity or a system, you should not criticize it at the same time. It also suggests that when one is busy with productive work (eating/sustenance), they have no time for idle chatter.
"Silence is also speech."
Refusing to answer or staying quiet conveys a message as powerful as words. Silence can signify disapproval, agreement, wisdom, or contempt. This proverb teaches that communication is not limited to sound. Learning to interpret silence is considered a mark of high social intelligence in Wolof society.
"What the old man sees sitting down, the young man cannot see standing up."
This famous saying asserts the superiority of experience over physical vigor. The "sight" referred to here is foresight and wisdom. An elder, though physically diminished (sitting), has a vantage point built on years of experience that a youth, despite their height and energy, cannot replicate. It commands respect for the advice of the elderly.
"If you speak, say something better than silence."
Silence is viewed as a state of peace and dignity. Therefore, one should only break that silence if what they have to say adds value. This discourages babbling, gossip, and nonsense. It sets a high bar for participation in conversation, suggesting that if your words are not useful, truthful, or kind, it is better to remain quiet.
"Many words do not fill a basket."
Talk is cheap; action is what provides sustenance. You can talk about farming all day, but it will not put harvest in the basket. This proverb is used to criticize people who make big promises or talk at length without producing tangible results. It prioritizes pragmatism over rhetoric.
"The ears do not grow higher than the head."
This metaphor reinforces hierarchy and humility. Just as ears physically cannot grow above the head, a younger person or a student should not presume to be above their elder or teacher. It warns against arrogance and knowing one's place within the social structure. It reminds the ambitious that they cannot bypass the natural order of things.
"Before you speak, turn your tongue seven times in your mouth."
This is a specific instruction on impulse control. The physical act of turning the tongue delays the speech, giving the brain time to process the consequences of the words. It advocates for a deliberate pause between thought and expression. This "cooling off" period prevents regretful outbursts.
"A lie has short legs."
A lie cannot run far before it is caught. While a lie might get a head start, it lacks the stamina and structure to sustain itself over the long term. Truth, by implication, has long legs and will eventually overtake the falsehood. It teaches that dishonesty is a poor long-term strategy because it inevitably fails.
"Do not tell the man carrying you that he stinks."
If you are dependent on someone for support, it is foolish to insult them. This proverb teaches pragmatism and gratitude, or at least diplomatic silence. While the person helping you may have flaws (they "stink"), criticizing them while you rely on their strength is a sure way to be dropped. It advises biting one's tongue for the sake of survival.
"The dog barks, the caravan passes."
This saying, shared across the Sahel and Arab world, indicates that significant progress cannot be stopped by petty criticism. The "caravan" represents a person on a mission or a grand destiny; the "dog" represents insignificant detractors. It teaches focus: do not be distracted by the noise of critics; simply keep moving toward your destination.
"He who asks does not get lost."
There is no shame in admitting ignorance. Asking for directions or advice is the surest way to reach a goal. This proverb counters the pride that prevents people from seeking help. It suggests that the humble inquirer arrives safely, while the arrogant guesser wanders in the wilderness.
"The truth is like a chili pepper; those who chew it find it hot."
The truth is often uncomfortable, painful, and intense. Delivering the truth can cause a reaction, and hearing it can sting. This proverb acknowledges that honesty is not always pleasant or soothing. However, like the chili, it is a potent and necessary ingredient in life. It prepares the listener for a difficult conversation.
"When the head is not there, the knees carry the load."
When wisdom/leadership (the head) is absent, the body suffers the physical consequences. If you do not think and plan, you will have to work much harder physically to correct your mistakes. It emphasizes the value of intellectual labor and strategy in saving physical effort.
"One implies two."
If you say "A," you imply "B." If you start a conflict, you imply a reaction. This proverb teaches logical consequences. Nothing exists in a vacuum; every word or action pulls a chain of associated events. It warns people to think about the second and third-order effects of what they say.
"Do not measure the snake until it is dead."
Do not discuss the details of a danger while you are still in danger. Dealing with the threat takes priority over analyzing it. It can also mean do not gloat over a victory until the enemy is truly defeated. It urges focus on the immediate task of survival before engaging in analysis or celebration.
"Rumor is a fast traveler."
Bad news and gossip travel faster than anyone can control. By the time the truth puts on its shoes, the lie has traveled halfway around the world. This serves as a warning against starting rumors, as they quickly spiral out of control, and a reminder not to believe everything one hears immediately.
"The wall has ears."
Privacy is an illusion in a communal society. This classic warning reminds people that someone is always listening, even when you think you are alone. It encourages discretion at all times, suggesting that you should never say anything you wouldn't want repeated publicly.
Family, Upbringing, and Elders
"The child is the father of the man."
The traits, habits, and values instilled in childhood determine the character of the adult. This proverb places immense responsibility on parents to raise their children well, as the "man" he becomes is entirely shaped by the "child" he was. It suggests that character is formed early and is difficult to change later.
"A mother's love is the most comfortable blanket."
Maternal affection is viewed as the ultimate refuge. No matter how cold or harsh the world becomes, the love of a mother provides warmth and security. This proverb celebrates the matriarchal strength in Senegalese families, honoring the mother as the emotional center of the home.
"When you follow the elephant, you do not get wet from the dew."
The elephant represents a powerful protector, a wealthy patron, or a wise elder. The "dew" represents the minor annoyances and hardships of life. By aligning oneself with a great person (walking in their path), one is shielded from the daily struggles that others face. It teaches the value of mentorship and loyalty to leaders.
"The stick that beats the black dog will beat the white dog."
This is a warning about fairness and precedent in the family. If a parent punishes one child for a mistake, they must be prepared to punish the favorite child for the same mistake. It also warns that a person who mistreats others will eventually mistreat you. It speaks to the consistency of character.
"You cannot shave a man's head in his absence."
You cannot make decisions for someone, or raise a child, without their presence and participation. It also applies to conflict resolution: you cannot judge a man or settle his affairs if he is not there to defend himself. It emphasizes the right of the individual to be present in matters concerning their life.
"What belongs to the goat belongs to the owner of the goat."
Children are ultimately the responsibility (and "property" in a guardianship sense) of their parents. A child's actions reflect on the parents, and the child's successes belong to the lineage. It reinforces the idea that children do not exist as independent agents but as extensions of the family unit.
"A log may float in the water for a hundred years, but it will never become a crocodile."
One's essential nature or heritage does not change simply by changing one's environment. You can live in a foreign land or adopt a new culture, but your roots remain your roots. This is often said to remind people to be proud of who they are and not try to fake an identity that is not theirs.
"The old baobab does not run, but it sees far."
Elders may lack physical speed and mobility, but their wisdom allows them to perceive future outcomes that the youth miss. The baobab is the symbol of Senegal—ancient, immovable, and life-giving. This proverb commands reverence for the elderly, equating their stillness with deep perception.
"If you want to grow straight, you must be pruned young."
Discipline must be applied early in life. If a sapling is crooked, it can be straightened; if a full-grown tree is crooked, it breaks if you try to bend it. This justifies strict parenting and education, arguing that correction is necessary in childhood to produce a virtuous adult.
"He who refuses to obey his mother will obey the world."
If a child is too stubborn to listen to the loving correction of their parents, life (the world) will teach them the same lessons through suffering, humiliation, and hardship. The parents' discipline is gentle compared to the brutality of the world's discipline. It is a warning to rebellious youth.
"The hyena does not know the flavor of the soup, only the amount."
This refers to people who lack refinement or proper upbringing. They care only about quantity (greed) rather than quality or manners. It is used to describe someone who is gluttonous or uncultured, warning children not to behave like the scavenger hyena.
"Two rams cannot drink from the same bucket."
There cannot be two masters in one house. In a family or organization, there must be a clear hierarchy. If two people of equal power and stubbornness try to lead, conflict is inevitable. It teaches the necessity of defining roles to maintain harmony.
"Inheritance is not just cows; it is character."
Wealth is fleeting, but the reputation and values passed down from a father to a son are the true legacy. This proverb urges parents to focus on teaching Jom (honor) and Ngor (dignity) rather than just accumulating money. A child with good character can rebuild lost wealth, but a rich child with no character will lose everything.
"The shade of the palm tree is for the stranger."
Sometimes, people are more generous to outsiders than to their own family. The palm tree's leaves direct rain away from its own roots and cast shade far from its trunk. This is a critique of those who neglect their own household while trying to impress the public. It reminds people that charity begins at home.
"Even if the baby does not speak, he hears."
Do not assume that children are unaware of what is happening around them. They absorb the emotional climate and the words spoken by adults. This warns parents not to argue or speak inappropriately in front of infants, as the impression remains even if the child cannot vocalize it.
"A bird that flies off the earth and lands on an anthill is still on the ground."
Making a small change is not the same as true progress. If a child leaves home but falls into the same bad habits next door, they haven't really moved. It urges true elevation of character, not just a superficial change of scenery.
"The lizard does not pant for the one who does not run."
Parents will not exhaust themselves for a child who makes no effort. Help is given to those who try. If the child is "running" (working hard), the parent (the lizard) will pant (exert effort) to help them. It teaches children that support is conditional on their own industry.
"Respect is a dish that is eaten cold."
Respect is not a passionate, fiery emotion; it is a cool, steady, and deliberate behavior. It requires self-control and formality. To show respect to elders requires suppressing one's own immediate emotional urges.
"The kola nut lasts long in the mouth of those who value it."
Resources last longer when they are appreciated. If a child values what their parents give them, they will take care of it. If they are ungrateful, they will consume or destroy it quickly. It teaches stewardship and gratitude.
"The wisdom of the year is known at the harvest."
You cannot judge the success of a parenting style or a life choice until the end results are seen. It encourages patience in judging families. A rebellious child may turn out well in the end; the harvest is the final proof.
Humility, Wealth, and Life's Realities
"Wealth is like dew; it disappears when the sun rises."
Material riches are temporary and fragile. Just as the morning dew evaporates with the first heat of the day, money can vanish due to illness, theft, or misfortune. This proverb warns against arrogance based on wealth and encourages people to build things that last, like relationships and character.
"If you dig a hole for your enemy, dig two."
Malice creates a trap for the aggressor as well. The effort and negative energy spent trying to harm another person inevitably rebounds on the perpetrator. It is a karmic warning that those who plot against others are simultaneously plotting their own downfall.
"The spoon does not know the taste of the soup."
It is possible to be close to wealth or power without possessing it, or to be involved in a situation without understanding its essence. A spoon is immersed in soup but remains an inanimate object. It refers to people who work for the rich but remain poor, or people who act mechanically without feeling.
"Do not buy the fish while it is still in the water."
Do not count your chickens before they hatch. It is foolish to make deals or plans based on assets you do not yet securely possess. This practical advice governs trade and expectations, warning against speculation and the assumption of success.
"The donkey likes to be thanked with a kick."
Some people are ungrateful by nature. No matter how much you help them, they will repay you with insults or betrayal. It advises people to be realistic about human nature and not to expect gratitude from everyone. It helps one accept ingratitude without bitterness.
"Even the king's well has a bottom."
Resources are finite. No matter how wealthy a person is, if they spend without replenishing, they will eventually run dry. This warns against wastefulness and the illusion of infinite abundance. It teaches conservation and fiscal responsibility even to the rich.
"Pride is the mask of one's own faults."
Arrogance is often a defensive mechanism used to hide insecurity or incompetence. A truly confident and capable person is humble. This proverb teaches people to be wary of those who boast, as they are likely compensating for a hidden deficiency.
"He who is destined to be a king does not need to blow a horn."
True power and quality speak for themselves. You do not need to self-promote if you are genuinely talented or destined for greatness. This encourages humility and trust in one's destiny, suggesting that desperate attention-seeking is a sign of weakness.
"The hand that gives is always above the hand that receives."
This is a literal and metaphorical truth. In the act of giving, the giver's hand is physically higher. Socially, the giver holds the power and the dignity. It encourages people to strive for self-reliance so they can be the ones giving rather than receiving, as dependency lowers one's status.
"Poverty is not a shame, but being ashamed of it is."
There is no dishonor in lacking money, as fortune is fickle. The only disgrace lies in losing one's dignity or trying to hide one's reality through lies. It encourages the poor to walk with their heads high, maintaining their Jom regardless of their bank balance.
"A full stomach does not understand an empty one."
It is difficult for the privileged to truly empathize with the suffering of the poor. This proverb reminds the wealthy that their perspective is skewed by their comfort. It calls for active compassion, acknowledging that physical satisfaction can dull moral sensitivity.
"It is the rider who knows how the saddle fits."
Only the person going through a situation truly understands its difficulties. An observer cannot judge the pain or comfort of another person's life. It warns against judging others' choices, as we do not "wear their saddle."
"If you throw ashes at the wind, they come back to your eyes."
Actions against nature or against the innocent often backfire immediately. Trying to harm something powerful or pure (the wind) only results in self-injury. It is a warning against futile and malicious efforts.
"The small cloud brings the big rain."
Do not underestimate small beginnings. A humble start or a small investment can yield massive results. It encourages people not to despise small opportunities, as they are the harbingers of abundance.
"Only the dirt knows the secrets of the dead."
Ultimate truth is known only by the earth (nature/God) and the deceased. It speaks to the mystery of life and death, reminding the living that there are limits to human knowledge. It encourages humility in the face of mortality.
"The monkey is smart, but he cannot sew his own pocket."
Everyone has limitations. The monkey is clever enough to steal, but not skilled enough to create (sew). It reminds us that no matter how talented someone is, they cannot do everything. We all need the skills of others to complete our lives.
"Do not insult the crocodile before you cross the river."
Be pragmatic. Do not antagonize those who have power over your safety or success until you are out of their jurisdiction. It is a lesson in timing and survival, prioritizing safety over the satisfaction of speaking one's mind.
"The shadow of the palm tree is long, but it disappears at night."
Influence and fame are prominent during the "day" (life/success), but in the "night" (death/failure), they vanish. It reminds people that worldly glory is fleeting and dependent on external conditions (the sun).
"He who has a head has a hat."
If you have life and health (a head), you will eventually find the material things you need (a hat). Do not worry about material possessions as long as you have your life. The essential is the existence; the accessories will follow.
"Life is a market; we trade and then we leave."
This sums up the Senegalese view of mortality. The world is a temporary place of transaction and interaction, not a permanent home. We are all visitors. It encourages people to make fair trades (live honorably) because the market closes for everyone eventually.