These Tiv Proverbs will Change the way You Think
On Wisdom and Knowledge
Proverb #1
Wisdom is like tilapia fingerlings cooked in sesame sauce; a small child who knows how to dip his hand well in the sauce can fetch some.
Wisdom is available to all, but only a few know how to benefit from its application. A man who applies wisdom to life, will benefit from life.
Proverb #2
A child who is piggybacked does not know how far the road is.
One who has been given a freehand in life does not understand the difficulties and sacrifices taken to arrive at the point that he is. Freebies are good, but they are also dangerous, ignorance is not always bliss.
Proverb #3
In the world of the blind, the man with one eye is King.
Anyone can lead who has an advantage over others. What advantage do you have in life that can set you ahead?
Proverb #4
When the child is disciplined, the servant also hears.
Instead of gloating at the mistakes of others, we should become more mindful so as to not be in the same circumstances later on.
Proverb #5
There is no medicine for foolishness.
One can treat an illness, one can be hopeful for a sick person, however, there is no medicine for foolishness.
Proverb #6
A child who washes his hands properly will dine with the elders.
One who is careful and diligent to excel at his current level, will go far in life.
Proverb #7
He who climbs the tree can see clearer than the one on the floor.
Perspective matters in life. One who has experience has better foresight than one without experience.
Proverb #8
He who asks questions will not miss the way.
Curiosity brings forth enlightenment and understanding
Proverb #9
A blind man does not burn two pans of roasted groundnuts.
A disadvantaged person who has failed once, will take the lessons from the first time and excel the second time.
Proverb #10
Oil does not form over night
Success is not found over night. It takes process and effort to reach a certain goal.
The Tiv are an indigenous tribe in middle belt Nigeria. They number over 4 million, the language is rich and the people are steeped in culture and farming. Proverbs are a way of instruction and bring life to those who pay heed to them.
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