Proverbs (ebe) are the main ingredients in the Akan language.
Akan proverb: Obi Nkyere Abofra Nyame. (No one points out God to a child.)
Meaning:The omnipotence of God; the existence of God is not limited only to adults.
Akan proverb: Onipa ye de. (Being human is sweet.)
Meaning: No man lives in isolatio
Akan proverb: Nsa baako nkura adesoa. (One hand cannot lift a heavy load.)
Meaning: Unity is strength.
Akan proverb: Aware nye nsafufu na woaka ahwe. (Marriage is not like palm wine to be tasted.)
Meaning: Marriage is a commitment to be made; a life long affair.
Akan proverb: Obi hwe wo ma wo se fifi a wo nso wohwe no ma ne de tutu. (Those who take care of you while you cut your teeth, you also take care of them when they lose theirs.)
Meaning: Children’s responsibility towards parents, the elderly or the aged.
Akan proverb: Woko aware a bisa. (Make enquiries before you marry.)
Meaning: Warns against hasty marriages.
Akan proverb: Obea ko aware a, ode ne na ko. (When a woman enters into marriage she takes her mother with her.)
Meaning: The way a woman is brought up by her mother is reflected in her conduct as a wife.
More Akan proverbs below:
Death’s ladder is there for everyone to climb. ~Akan proverb
Fowls will not spare a cockroach that falls in their midst. ~Akan proverb
If all the seeds that fall were to grow, then no one could follow the path under the trees. ~Akan proverb
It is a fool whose own tomatoes are sold to him. ~Akan proverb
Marriage is like a groundnut: you have to crack them to see what is inside. ~Akan proverb
Only birds of the same clan or species play together on the same tree. ~Akan proverb
The rain wets the leopard’s spots but does not wash them off. ~Akan proverb
The child is capable of splitting open the snail, not the tortoise. ~Akan proverb
The clever bird is easily trapped in the leaves at the edges. ~Akan proverb
The family is like the forest: if you are outside, it is dense; if you are inside, you see that each tree has its own position. ~Akan proverb
The good mother knows what her children will eat. ~Akan proverb
The knot tied by a wiseman cannot be undone by a fool. ~Akan proverb
The one who asks questions doesn’t lose his way. ~Akan proverb
When the hen steps on the feet of her chicken, she does not mean to kill them. ~Akan proverb
Akan culture, rooted in Ghana’s rich history, is a treasure trove of wisdom and tradition. At the heart of Akan culture are its proverbs, known as “ebe,” which play a fundamental role in conveying life’s essential lessons and values. These proverbs are more than just words; they are the main ingredients in the Akan language, offering insights into the beliefs, customs, and worldview of the Akan people. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most fascinating Akan proverbs, uncovering their meanings and the profound wisdom they contain.
No one points out God to a child: The omnipotence of God
“Proverbs (ebe) are the main ingredients in the Akan language,” and this statement serves as a gateway into the world of Akan wisdom. One of the Akan proverbs that beautifully illustrates their philosophy is “Obi Nkyere Abofra Nyame,” which translates to “No one points out God to a child.” This proverb conveys the omnipotence of God, emphasizing that the existence of God is not limited only to adults. It implies that the knowledge and understanding of God are innate, even in the youngest of minds.
The Akan people believe that faith and spirituality are intrinsic to human nature, and this proverb reflects their profound reverence for the divine. It reminds us that God’s presence is universal and accessible to all, regardless of age or experience.
Being human is sweet: The Joy of Human Connection
In the web of Akan proverbs, we find another gem: “Onipa ye de,” which means “Being human is sweet.” This simple yet profound statement reminds us of the value of human connection and the richness of our shared experiences. It speaks to the idea that no man lives in isolation, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment that come from our interactions and relationships with others.
In a world that often prioritizes individualism, this proverb encourages us to embrace the beauty of our humanity. It serves as a gentle nudge to cherish the bonds we create and the moments we share with fellow humans, for it is in these connections that life’s true sweetness lies.
Unity is Strength: The Power of Collaboration
The Akan proverb “Nsa baako nkura adesoa” succinctly captures a universal truth: “One hand cannot lift a heavy load.” This proverb underlines the significance of unity and cooperation in overcoming challenges and achieving shared goals. It is a reminder that when people come together, their collective strength is far greater than the sum of their individual abilities.
Throughout history, countless societies have thrived by embracing this principle of unity. From community projects to global movements, the concept of working together for a common purpose has driven progress and positive change. The Akan people, through this proverb, invite us to recognize the potency of collaboration and the rewards it brings to those who unite in pursuit of a common goal.
Marriage is a Commitment: The Journey of a Lifetime
The Akan proverb “Aware nye nsafufu na woaka ahwe” offers profound insights into the institution of marriage. Translated as “Marriage is not like palm wine to be tasted,” this saying underscores the gravity of marital commitment. In Akan culture, marriage is seen as a lifelong journey, not a casual endeavor.
This proverb serves as a gentle reminder that entering into a marital union is not a decision to be taken lightly. It calls for serious consideration and commitment, much like the process of making palm wine, which requires patience and dedication. By comparing marriage to this intricate process, the Akan people highlight the importance of honoring the vows and responsibilities that come with matrimony.
Children’s Responsibility Towards Parents: A Circle of Care
“Obi hwe wo ma wo se fifi a wo nso wohwe no ma ne de tutu,” an Akan proverb, beautifully encapsulates the reciprocal relationship between generations. Translated, it means, “Those who take care of you while you cut your teeth, you also take care of them when they lose theirs.” This proverb illustrates the interdependence of family and the enduring bond between parents and children.
In Akan culture, it is deeply ingrained that children have a moral duty to care for their parents in their old age, just as parents cared for them in their infancy. This concept of filial piety echoes across cultures and serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of respecting and supporting one’s elders.
Make Enquiries Before You Marry: The Wisdom of Patience
The Akan proverb “Woko aware a bisa” is a cautionary statement that advises against hasty decisions in matters of the heart. Translated as “Make enquiries before you marry,” it encourages individuals to exercise prudence and due diligence when embarking on the journey of marriage. Rushing into such a significant life choice without careful consideration can lead to regret and difficulties.
This proverb acknowledges that love and emotions should not cloud one’s judgment when choosing a life partner. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of seeking to understand and know one’s potential spouse well before making a lifelong commitment. It’s a reminder that patience and discernment are key when it comes to matters of the heart.
The Influence of Upbringing: A Mother’s Role in Marriage
“Obea ko aware a, ode ne na ko” is an Akan proverb that underscores the role of a woman’s upbringing in shaping her conduct as a wife. Translated as “When a woman enters into marriage, she takes her mother with her,” this saying highlights the lasting influence of a mother’s teachings and guidance on her daughter’s behavior in marriage.
In Akan culture, a woman’s character and actions as a wife are often seen as a reflection of her family upbringing. This proverb serves as a reminder that the values and lessons instilled by one’s mother play a significant role in determining how one navigates the complexities of married life. It underscores the idea that a mother’s wisdom is carried forward by her daughter into her own family.
More Akan Proverbs: Nuggets of Wisdom
The Akan culture is replete with proverbs that offer profound insights into various aspects of life. Here are a few more Akan proverbs, each brimming with its own unique wisdom:
- “Death’s ladder is there for everyone to climb.” This proverb reminds us of the universal truth that mortality is an inevitable part of the human experience. It encourages us to live our lives purposefully and make the most of our time.
- “Fowls will not spare a cockroach that falls in their midst.” This saying highlights the ruthlessness of some situations and serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of finding oneself in an unfamiliar or hostile environment.
- “If all the seeds that fall were to grow, then no one could follow the path under the trees.” This proverb teaches us about the importance of competition and natural selection, as not all opportunities can be pursued simultaneously.
- “It is a fool whose own tomatoes are sold to him.” This saying reminds us to be cautious in our dealings and not to fall victim to deceit or manipulation.
- “Marriage is like a groundnut: you have to crack them to see what is inside.” This proverb emphasizes that true understanding of a person or situation requires effort and patience.
- “Only birds of the same clan or species play together on the same tree.” This proverb reflects the idea that people tend to associate with those who share their values and interests.
- “The rain wets the leopard’s spots but does not wash them off.” This saying suggests that one’s fundamental nature remains unchanged despite external circumstances.
- “The child is capable of splitting open the snail, not the tortoise.” This proverb underscores the importance of recognizing one’s limitations and focusing on tasks that align with one’s abilities.
- “The clever bird is easily trapped in the leaves at the edges.” This proverb cautions against becoming complacent or overconfident, as even the most intelligent individuals can fall into traps if they are not vigilant.
- “The family is like the forest: if you are outside, it is dense; if you are inside, you see that each tree has its own position.” This saying highlights the complexity of family dynamics and the importance of understanding and respecting individual roles within a family.
- “The good mother knows what her children will eat.” This proverb celebrates the intuition and nurturing instincts of mothers, who often have a deep understanding of their children’s needs and preferences.
- “The knot tied by a wise man cannot be undone by a fool.” This saying underscores the importance of seeking wisdom and making thoughtful decisions in life.
- “The one who asks questions doesn’t lose his way.” This proverb encourages curiosity and the seeking of knowledge as a means of navigating life successfully.
- “When the hen steps on the feet of her chicken, she does not mean to kill them.” This saying reminds us that sometimes actions that seem harsh or critical are intended for our protection or benefit.
Conclusion: The Timeless Wisdom of Akan Proverbs
Akan proverbs are more than mere words; they are the embodiment of centuries of wisdom, culture, and tradition. Through these succinct and thought-provoking sayings, the Akan people convey profound life lessons that resonate with people of all backgrounds. From the importance of faith and unity to the value of patience and understanding in marriage, these proverbs offer valuable insights that enrich our lives.
As we explore these Akan proverbs, we are reminded of the universality of human experiences and the timeless wisdom that transcends borders and cultures. These proverbs are not just a window into Akan culture but a mirror reflecting the shared human journey—its challenges, joys, and complexities. In embracing the wisdom of Akan proverbs, we find not only valuable lessons but also a deeper appreciation for the richness of human diversity and the common threads that bind us all.