Igbo proverbs, known as “ilu” in Igbo language, are deeply woven into the fabric of Igbo culture. They encapsulate wisdom, moral lessons, and cultural values passed down through generations. Here are some Igbo proverbs along with their translations and meanings:
- Proverb: A na-ele di ya ka e si ele mmanwu.
Translation: One looks at her husband as one looks at a masquerade.
Meaning: Treat important people with respect and admiration. - Proverb: Ebe onye dara ka chi ya kwaturu ya.
Translation: Where a person fell is where their god pushed them down.
Meaning: One should take responsibility for their failures and learn from them. - Proverb: Egbe bere ugo bere, nke si ibe ya ebene, nku kwaa ya.
Translation: Let the eagle perch and let the hawk perch; if one says the other should not perch, may its wings break.
Meaning: Live and let live; coexist peacefully with others. - Proverb: Ihe doro gboo, a nu ya a nu ya.
Translation: What is said in the early morning is heard clearly.
Meaning: Early planning and clear communication are essential. - Proverb: Onye kwe, chi ya ekwe.
Translation: If a person agrees, their personal god agrees.
Meaning: Determination and self-belief are crucial for success. - Proverb: Okenye anaghi ano n’ulo, ewu amuo n’ogbu.
Translation: An elder does not stay at home while a goat gives birth tethered.
Meaning: Elders should ensure things are done correctly and provide guidance. - Proverb: Nwata bulie nna ya elu, ngwere abuo adi ya n’isi.
Translation: When a child lifts his father up, two frogs cling to his head.
Meaning: When you praise or elevate others, you share in their glory. - Proverb: A na-agba onye ndi ilo gba gburugburu egwu, o na-eti mkpu onye obula ka o choro.
Translation: When someone is surrounded by enemies and calls out, anyone can answer.
Meaning: In times of crisis, help can come from unexpected places. - Proverb: Agwo otu onye huru bu eke.
Translation: The snake seen by one person is a python.
Meaning: One person’s perception can exaggerate the reality. - Proverb: Okuko adighi ekwupuru onwe ya na mbe gwara ya okwu.
Translation: The chicken does not argue with the tortoise.
Meaning: Know when to avoid conflict, especially with those who may be deceitful. - Proverb: O bu mkpuru mmiri enyere ibe ya anya ka oji agwo ofe.
Translation: It is the drop of water given to another that is used to prepare soup.
Meaning: Sharing and kindness lead to greater benefits for everyone. - Proverb: Onye bu ụzọ gbalu ogu ka e jiri ama onye ga-emeri ogu.
Translation: The person who first sounds the gong determines who wins the battle.
Meaning: Taking initiative often leads to success. - Proverb: Ebe onye oso ruru ka onye ije ga-eru.
Translation: Where the runner reaches, the walker will also reach.
Meaning: Persistence and patience will get you to your destination. - Proverb: Jiri obi gi niile kwuo eziokwu, ebe okwu nkoropụ di, udo adighi.
Translation: Always speak the truth with your whole heart; where lies exist, peace does not.
Meaning: Truthfulness fosters peace and harmony. - Proverb: Okuko n’akọrọ nri ya, ebe aka ya n’ọtụtụ ụtụtụ.
Translation: The hen scratches for her food in the early morning.
Meaning: Hard work and early action lead to success. - Proverb: Ihe anyi nwere bu ihe anyi ga-agba nkiti ya.
Translation: What we have is what we will remain silent about.
Meaning: Be content and humble with what you have. - Proverb: Onye na-ejighi mmiri eme ihe n’ejighi ya n’akwuya.
Translation: He who does not use water will use sweat.
Meaning: Hard work is inevitable if one does not utilize available resources wisely. - Proverb: Onye ji akpiri ara ama na-eti mkpu n’ulo ime.
Translation: He who carries the palm kernel around knows where he is selling it.
Meaning: One who initiates a task knows their plan or goal. - Proverb: Nwoke adighi eto eto ebighi ebi.
Translation: A young man does not stay young forever.
Meaning: Time changes everything; youth and strength are transient. - Proverb: Ọhụụ dịka ọkụ, ọ na-anya anya.
Translation: New things are like fire; they attract attention.
Meaning: New or novel things always draw interest and curiosity.
These proverbs provide a window into the wisdom and values of the Igbo people, emphasizing respect, perseverance, community, and the importance of integrity. If you need professional translation services for Igbo or any other language, consider Translingua. Visit Translingua.ng to explore our services and ensure accurate, culturally nuanced translations for your needs.