Sukuma Proverbs

1532. SUKUMA: UMONGO UYO GUDINA LUZWILO GUGAKAMAGA.

Ulusumo lunulo lwingilile kubhukengeji bho jisumbile. Bhuli mongo gugesendamilaga na gwisanya lwandiko logo, guti luzwilo, nyanza, nulu mbula. Ulu winga uwandijo bhogo bhunubho umongo gunuyo gugakamaga hado hado. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagayombaga giki, “umongo uyo gudina luzwilo gugakamaga.”

Ulusumo lununo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agibhaga wandijo bho nguzu jakwe umukikalile kakwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agabhadalahaga abhabyaji bhakwe kihamo nu Mulungu bhogwiyisanya weyi duhu umumilimo yakwe iya bhuli lushigu kunguno ya gwibha uko jafumila inguzu yake umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi aginogolelagwa mpaga oduma uguyilanhana ikaya yakwe kunguno ya gwibha uko jafumila inguzu yakwe jinijo, umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga nu mongo uyo gugakama aho gogagayiwa uluzwilo logo, kunguno nuweyi aginogolelagwa mpaga oduma uguyilanhana ikaya yakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “umongo uyo gudina luzwilo gugakamaga.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho gubhalonja abhabyaji bhabho na gunkuja Mulungu uyo agabhinhaga nguzu na bhupanga kugiki bhadule gupandika nguzu ja gujilanhana na kulela chiza ikaya jabho jinijo, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Yohana 15:5.

Yeremia 17:7–8.

Zaburi 36:9.

Mithali 22:28.

Wakolosai 2:6–7.

SWAHILI: MTO USIO NA CHEMCHEMI HUKAUKA.

Methali hii inatokana na uchunguzi wa maumbile. Kila mto hutegemea chanzo chake, kama vile chemchemi, ziwa, barafu, au mvua. Chanzo kinapotoweka, mto hukauka polepole. Ndiyo maana watu husema kwamba, “mto usio na chemchemi hukauka.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule anayesahau chanzo cha nguvu zake, maarifa, imani, au mafanikio maishani mwake. Mtu huyu huwadharau wazazi wake, na Mungu kwa kujitegemea mwenyewe katika shughuli zake za kila siku kwa sababu ya kusahau chanzo cha nguvu zake maishani mwake. Yeye huwa dhaifu katika kuendesha familia yake kwa sababu ya kujitenga na kile kinachomlisha na kumsaidia katika maisha yake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na ule mto uliokauka baada ya kukosa chanzo chake, kwa sababu naye pia huwasahau wazazi wake na Mungu hadi anakuwa dhaifu katika maisha yake. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “mto usio na chemchemi hukauka.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: kukumbuka na kuheshimu mizizi ya mtu. Kudumisha uhusiano na chanzo cha uzima, hekima, na nguvu. Kuwathamini wale waliochangia ukuaji na mafanikio yao. Kuelewa kwamba mafanikio ya kudumu yanahitaji msingi imara. Kuendelea kuwa waaminifu kwa Mungu ambaye ndiye chanzo kikuu cha uzima.

Yohana 15:5. “Mimi ni mzabibu; ninyi ni matawi. Akaaye ndani yangu nami ndani yake huzaa matunda mengi, maana pasipo mimi hamwezi kufanya neno lo lote.” Kama vile mto unavyohitaji chanzo chake, waumini wanamhitaji Kristo.

Yeremia 17:7–8. “Atakuwa kama mti uliopandwa kando ya maji…” Wale wanaomtumaini Mungu hubaki imara na huzaa matunda.

Zaburi 36:9. “Maana kwako iko chemchemi ya uzima.” Mungu ndiye chanzo ambacho uhai wote hutoka.

Mithali 22:28. “Usiiondoe alama ya kale ambayo baba zako waliiweka.” Hii inafundisha heshima kwa urithi na misingi yetu.

Wakolosai 2:6–7. “Mwenye mizizi na kujengwa ndani yake…” Kama vile mto usivyoweza kuishi bila chanzo chake, mtu hawezi kustawi bila kubaki ameunganishwa na chanzo cha uzima, hekima, imani, na maadili. Kumbuka mizizi yako, heshimu msingi wako, na ubaki umeunganishwa na Mungu.

ENGLISH: A RIVER WITHOUT A SOURCE DRIES UP.

This proverb comes from the observation of nature. Every river depends on its source, such as a spring, lake, glacier, or rainfall. When the source disappears, the river gradually dries up. That is why people say “a river without a source dries up.”

This proverb is related to a person who forgets the source of his strength, knowledge, faith, or success in life. This person disrespects his parents, and God by depending on himself in his daily activities because of forgetting his source of strength in his life. Such a person becomes weak in running the family because he has disconnected himself from what nourishes and supports him in his life.

This person resembles the river which dried up after missing its source, because he also forgets his parents and God to the point of becoming weak in his life. That is why people tell him “a river without a source dries up.”

This proverb teaches people about: remembering and honoring one’s roots.

Maintaining a connection with the source of life, wisdom, and strength. Appreciating those who contributed to their growth and success. Understanding that lasting success requires a strong foundation. Remaining faithful to God who is the ultimate source of life.

John 15:5. “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” Just as a river needs its source, believers need Christ.

Jeremiah 17:7–8. “He shall be like a tree planted by the waters…” Those who trust in God remain strong and fruitful.

Psalm 36:9. “For with you is the fountain of life.” God is the source from which all life flows.

Proverbs 22:28. “Do not move the ancient landmark that your fathers have set.” This teaches respect for our heritage and foundations.

Colossians 2:6–7. “Rooted and built up in Him…” Just as a river cannot survive without its source, a person cannot flourish without remaining connected to the source of life, wisdom, faith, and moral values. Remember your roots, honor your foundation, and stay connected to God.

 

 

1531. SUKUMA: UNTI GUGAPANDIKAGA NGUZU GUFUMILA KU MIZWI YAGO.

Imbuki ya lusumo lunulo ingilile kukikalile ka bhaafrica. Igalangaga giki, unti gugasagaga gupanga, na gubyala bhana kunguno ya mizwi yago. Imizwi yiniyo ulu ilimilihu unti gudugwishiwa nu nyaga. Giko lulu na bhanhu bhagapandikaga nguzu kufumilile ku nhungwa jabho ijawiza. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagayombaga giki, “unti gugapandikaga nguzu gufumila ku mizwi yago.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo alinawitegeleja bho gudimila kikalile kawiza umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu guti ng’wunuyo, agizukaga isumo yakwe na gwikala ntungilija umulikujo ni nguzu ja sumo yakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agakindaga bhudamu aha kaya yakwe kunguno ya bhutungulija bhokwe bhunubho ubho gujikalana inhungwa ijawiza umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga nu nti uyo gugapandikagaga nguzu ja gufumila kumizwi yago, kunguno nuweyi agajikalanaga chiza inhungwa ijawiza mpaga opandika nguzu ja gukinda bhudamu wingi aha kaya yake, umuwikaji bhokwe. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “unti gugapandikaga nguzu ku kufumila ku mizwi yago.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya solobho ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho gujikalana chiza inhungwa ja kikalile kiza akabhatale bhabho kugiki bhadule gujilela chiza ikaya jabho umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Yeremia 17:7-8.

Zaburi 1:3.

Wakolosai 2:6-7.

Mathayo 7:24-25.

SWAHILI: MTI HUPATA NGUVU KWA MIZIZI YAKE.

Asili ya Methali inapatikana katika tamaduni nyingi za Kiafrika katika aina tofauti. Inafundisha kwamba mti hubaki imara, wenye afya, na wenye matunda kwa sababu ya mizizi yake. Ikiwa mizizi ni mirefu na imara, mti unaweza kustahimili dhoruba, ukame, na upepo mkali. Vivyo hivyo, watu hupata nguvu kutokana na asili yao, maadili, imani, familia, na mila. Ndiyo maana watu husema “mti hupata nguvu zake kutokana na mizizi yake.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu anayebaki mwaminifu katika maadili mema maishani mwake. Mtu huyu hukumbuka historia yake, na hubaki ameunganishwa na chanzo cha hekima na nguvu. Mtu kama huyo husimama imara wakati wa magumu kwa sababu msingi wake ni imara maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na ule mti unaobaki na afya kutokana na mizizi yake, kwa sababu naye pia hupata nguvu zake kutokana na asili yake maishani. Pia yeye hufanana na yule anayemtumaini Mungu, anayetii amri zake, anayewaheshimu wazazi, na anayebaki na mizizi katika imani. Kama vile mti unavyotegemea mizizi yake kwa ajili ya lishe, mwamini humtegemea Mungu kwa ajili ya nguvu na mwongozo wa kiroho. Ndiyo maana watu husema kumhusu yeye kwamba, “mti hupata nguvu zake kutokana na mizizi yake.”

Methali Hii huwafundisha Watu Kuhusu: Umuhimu wa kuwa na msingi imara maishani. Kukumbuka asili na urithi wa mtu. Kudumisha uaminifu kwa Mungu na mafundisho Yake. Kujenga maisha juu ya maadili na kanuni nzuri. Kuelewa kwamba mafanikio ya kudumu hutokana na mizizi imara, si tu mwonekano wa nje.

Yeremia 17:7-8. “Heri mtu yule amtumainiye Bwana… Kwa maana atakuwa kama mti uliopandwa kando ya maji, Uenezao mizizi yake kando ya mto.” Kifungu hiki kinaonesha kwamba wale wanaomtumaini Mungu ni kama miti yenye mizizi imara inayoendelea kustawi.

Zaburi 1:3. “Naye atakuwa kama mti uliopandwa kando ya vijito vya maji, Utoao matunda yake kwa majira yake.” Mtu mwadilifu analinganishwa na mti wenye mizizi mizuri unaozaa matunda.

Wakolosai 2:6-7. “Umetia mizizi na kujengwa ndani yake, na kuimarishwa katika imani.” Wakristo wanahimizwa kuwa na mizizi imara katika Kristo, ambaye ndiye chanzo cha nguvu zao.

Mathayo 7:24-25. “Mtu mwenye busara… alijenga nyumba yake juu ya mwamba.” Kama vile mti unavyohitaji mizizi imara, mtu anahitaji msingi imara wa kiroho ili kustahimili dhoruba za maisha.

Mti usio na mizizi hauwezi kusimama, na mtu asiye na maadili imara, imani, na muunganisho imara na Mungu hawezi kubaki imara wakati wa majaribu. Kwa hivyo, kama vile mti unavyopata nguvu yake kutoka kwa mizizi yake, waumini hupokea nguvu zao kutoka kwa Mungu, Neno lake, na msingi imara wa kiroho.

ENGLISH: A TREE GETS ITS STRENGTH FROM ITS ROOTS.

The Original of his Proverb is found in many African cultures in different forms. It teaches that a tree remains strong, healthy, and fruitful because of its roots. If the roots are deep and firm, the tree can withstand storms, drought, and strong winds. In the same way, people draw strength from their origins, values, faith, family, and traditions. That is why people say “a tree gets its strength from its roots.”

This proverb is compared to a person who remains faithful to good values in his life. This persom remembers his or her background, and stays connected to the source of wisdom and strength. Such a person stands firm during difficulties because his foundation is strong in his life.

This person resembles the tree that remains healthy from its roots, because he also gets his strength from his origin in life. He also resembles the one who trusts in God, obeys His commandments, respects parents and elders, and remains rooted in faith. Just as a tree depends on its roots for nourishment, a believer depends on God for spiritual strength and guidance. That is why people say about him “a tree gets its strength from its roots.”

This Proverb Teaches People About: the importance of having a strong foundation in life. Remembering one’s origins and heritage. Remaining faithful to God and His teachings. Building life on good values and principles. Understanding that lasting success comes from strong roots, not merely outward appearance.

Jeremiah 17:7-8. “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord… For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river.”

This passage shows that those who trust in God are like trees with strong roots that continue to flourish.

Psalm 1:3. “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season.” The righteous person is compared to a well-rooted tree that bears fruit.

Colossians 2:6-7. “Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith.” Christians are encouraged to be deeply rooted in Christ, who is the source of their strength.

Matthew 7:24-25. “A wise man… built his house upon a rock.” Just as a tree needs strong roots, a person needs a strong spiritual foundation to withstand life’s storms.

A tree without roots cannot stand, and a person without strong values, faith, and connection to God cannot remain strong in times of trial. Therefore, just as a tree gets its strength from its roots, believers receive their strength from God, His Word, and a firm spiritual foundation.

 

 

1530. SUKUMA: UMOTO UYO GOBHACHA NZENGANWA GUDULILE GUBHACHA NUMBA YINGI.

Imbuki ya lusumo lunulo yinginile ku likujo lya bhikaji bha Afrika. Uloyi luhoyelile munhu uyo adadilile makoye ayo gayikenagulaga kaya yingi. Amakoye geneyo nose gagashiga na ha kaya yakwe kunguno ya guleka gugadilila aho galikubhangi. Hunagwene abhanhu bhaganhugula bho guyomba giki, “umoto uyo gobhacha nzenganwa gudulile gubhacha numba yingi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo adadililaga makoye ga bhiye bho gwiganika giki, gadadulile ugunpandika uweyi, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agagabhonaga amakoye gabhiye olema ugwambilija josejose kunguno ya bhujidalonja bhokwe bhunubho, umukikalile kakwe. Aha ngelelo yabho, amakoye genayo gagashikaga nu kubhanhu bha ha kaya yakwe gayubhakoya mpaga oduma uguginja, kunguno ya bhujidalonja bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo agaleka gugadilila makoye gabhiye mpaga nose kuyipandika ni ikaya yakwe, kunguno nuweyi agalemaga ugugadilila amakoye gabhiye mpaga nose gabhapandika na kubhakoya abhanhu bha ha kaya yakwe yiniyo, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhaganhugulaga bho guyomba giki, “umoto uyo gobhacha nzenganwa gudulile gubhacha numba yingi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho gudilila gwiyambilija gugamala wangu amakoye gabhichabho haho gatali ugukula, kugiki bhadule gwikala bho mholele umukaya jabho jinijo.

Wagalatia 6:2.

1Wakorintho 12:26.

Mithali 26:20.

Yakobo 3:5-6.

Mathayo 5:9.

SWAHILI: MOTO ULIOWASHA JIRANI HUWEZA KUWASHA NYUMBA NYINGINE.

Methali hiyo inatokana na hekima ya jadi za Kiafrika. Inazungumzia mtu aliyepuuza hatari, uovu, migogoro, au matatizo yaliyoathiri familia nyingine. Matatizo hayo yaliifikia pia familia yake kwa urahisi kwa sababu ya kuyapuuza. Kama vile moto unavyohama haraka kutoka nyumba moja hadi nyingine, matatizo katika jamii moja yanaweza kuathiri jamii nzima. Ndiyo maana watu walimwambia mtu huyo kwamba, “moto uliowasha nyumba ya jirani unaweza kuwasha nyumba nyingine.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye hupuuza mateso, migogoro, au makosa yanayowapata wengine, akifikiri kwamba hayatamwathiri kamwe. Mtu huyo huona mgawanyiko, chuki, dhambi, ufisadi, au vurugu zikiongezeka karibu naye lakini hukataa kutenda lolote, kusaidia, kuomba, au kuwaonya wengine kwa sababu ya kutojali kwake. Mwishowe, shida hiyo hiyo iliwafikia wanafamilia wake kiasi cha kushindwa kuitatua katika maisha yake.

Mtu huyo hufanana na yule aliyepuuza matatizo ya wengine hadi kufikia hatua ya kuyaruhusu yawafikie watu wa familia yake, kwa sababu naye pia hupuuza mgawanyiko, mateso, na matatizo ambayo yanawaathiri wengine hadi baadaye, uharibifu huo huo huingia katika familia yake mwenyewe. Ndiyo maana watu humuonya kwa kusema kwamba, “moto uliowasha nyumba ya jirani unaweza kuwasha nyumba nyingine.”

Methali hiyo huwapa watu mawazo kuhusu: kujaliana katika jamii kwa kutatua matatizo kabla hayajaenea, kuwasaidia majirani wakati wa shida, kuelewa kwamba mateso ya mtu mmoja yanaweza kuathiri kila mtu.

Pia inawakumbusha watu kuhusu wajibu wao wa kukuza amani, umoja, na uwajibikaji miongoni mwao.

Wagalatia 6:2. “Chukulianeni mizigo, na kwa njia hii mtatimiza sheria ya Kristo.” Mstari huu unawafundisha Wakristo kusaidiana kwa sababu matatizo yanayomhusu mwamini mmoja yanaweza pia kuathiri jamii nzima.

1Wakorintho 12:26. “Kiungo kimoja kikiteseka, vyote huumia pamoja nacho.” Mtume Paulo anaelezea kwamba waumini ni kama mwili mmoja. Maumivu au shida katika sehemu moja huathiri pia mtu mwingine.

Mithali 26:20. “Pasipo kuni moto huzimika; bila umbea ugomvi hupungua.” Mstari huu unafundisha kwamba migogoro midogo inaweza kukua kama moto ikiwa watu wataendelea kueneza chuki na mgawanyiko.

Yakobo 3:5-6. “Ulimi pia ni moto…” Yakobo analinganisha maneno ya uharibifu na moto ambao unaweza kuharibu maisha ya watu wengi ikiwa hautadhibitiwa.

Mathayo 5:9. “Heri wapatanishi; maana hao wataitwa wana wa Mungu.” Yesu anawafundisha waumini kuacha migogoro na kuleta amani kabla uharibifu haujaenea zaidi.

ENGLISH: A FIRE THAT STARTED IN A NEIGHBOR’S HOUSE CAN SET FIRE TO ANOTHER HOUSE.

This proverb comes from traditional African wisdom. It talks about a person who ignored danger, evil, conflict, or problems which affected another family. Those problems easily reached his family because of ignoring them. Just as fire moves quickly from one house to another, trouble in one community can affect the whole society. That is why people told him, “a fire that started in a neighbor’s house can set fire to another house.”

This proverb is compared to a person who ignores suffering, conflict, or wrongdoing happening to others, thinking that it will never affect him.  This person sees division, hatred, sin, corruption, or violence growing around him but refuses to act, help, pray, or warn others because of his less concern. In the end, the same trouble reached his family members to point of failing to solve it in his life.

This person resembles that person who ignored problems of others to the point of letting them reach his family, because of he ignores division, suffering, and other problems which affect others until later, the same destruction enters his own family. That is why people warn his by saying, “a fire that started in a neighbor’s house can set fire to another house.”

This proverb imparts in people ideas about: caring for one another in communities by solving problems before they spread, helping neighbors during times of trouble, understanding that the suffering of one person can affect everyone.

It also reminds people about their duty of promoting peace, unity, and responsibility among people.

Galatians 6:2. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” This verse teaches Christians to help one another because problems affecting one believer can also affect the whole community.

1Corinthians 12:26. “If one member suffers, all suffer together with it.” The Apostle Paul explains that believers are like one body. Pain or trouble in one part affects everyone else.

Proverbs 26:20. “Without wood a fire goes out; without a gossip a quarrel dies down.” This verse teaches that small conflicts can grow like fire if people continue spreading hatred and division.

James 3:5-6. “The tongue also is a fire…” James compares destructive words to fire that can destroy many lives if not controlled.

Matthew 5:9. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” Jesus teaches believers to stop conflict and bring peace before destruction spreads further.

1529. SUKUMA: UYO ADIZUKAGA UKO OFUMILA, AGAJIMILAGA UKO AJILE.

Ulusumo lunulo lulolile likujo lya kihalile ka jiafrika. Abhanhu bhalangagwa gwizuka imbuki ya kaya jabho, kikalile, ni nhungwa ijawiza. Abhatale bhalibhamana igiki umunhu uyo agibhaga imbuki ya mizwi yakwe agajimilaga wangu umuwikaji bhokwe. Hunagwene bhagang’wilaga giki “uyo adizukaga uko ofumila, agajimilaga uko ajile.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agalekaga imbuki ya kikalile ka bhatale bhakwe nu bhulangwa ubho bhonkuja, umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, alinanhinda ja gubhulema ubhushauli bho gwita mihayo ya sagala kunguno ya gubhudalahija ubhulangwa bho bhatale bhakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agadumaga uguimala imilimo ya ha kaya yakwe kunguno ya guleka gubhudilila chiza ubhulangwa bho bhatale bhakwe, umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo agayibhaga imizwi ya bhatale bhakwe mpaka ojimila, kunguno nuweyi agabhudalahijaga ubhulangwa bho bhatale bhakwe mpaka oduma uguyimala chiza imilimo yakwe yiniyo, aha kaya yakwe, umuwikaji bhokwe. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo adizukaga uko ofumila, agajimilaga uko ajile.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya: gwizuka isumo yabho, bho gubhakuja abhabyaji bhabho, kugiki bhadule gujilela chiza ikaya jabho, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Kumbukumbu la Torati 8:2.

Mithali 22:28.

Luka 15:17-18.

Zaburi 78:4.

Yeremia 6:16.

SWAHILI: ASIYEKUMBUKA ALIPOTOKA, HUPOTEA AENDAKO.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya kitamaduni ya Kiafrika. Katika jamii nyingi za Kiafrika, watu walifundishwa kukumbuka historia ya familia zao, utamaduni, mila, na maadili. Wazee waliamini kwamba mtu anayesahau mizizi yake hupoteza mwelekeo maishani kwa urahisi. Methali hiyo ilitumika sana kuwakumbusha vijana kuheshimu historia yao, wazazi, mila, na imani. Ndiyo maana wazee walimwambia yule anayesahau mizizi yake kwamba, “asiyekumbuka alipotoka, hupotea aendako.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule anayeacha mila zake kwa kupuuza ushauri mzuri kutoka kwa wazee ulioyaunda maisha yake. Mtu kama huyo huwa na kiburi kimpelekeacho kuwa na hali kuchanganyikiwa, au kufanya maamuzi mabaya kwa sababu hakumbuki tena msingi wa maisha yake. Yeye hushindwa kutimiza malengo yake katika familia yake kwa sababu ya kupuuza ushauri mzuri kutoka kwa wazee wake katika maisha yake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule mtu aliyesahau mizizi yake akapokea, kama msafiri anayetembea msituni bila kujua njia aliyotumia kuingia. Kwa kuwa amesahau njia aliyotoka, anapotea na hawezi kupata mwelekeo sahihi kwa urahisi. Ndiyo maana watu humuonya kwa kusema kwamba, “asiyekumbuka alipotoka, hupotea aendako.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: kukumbuka asili na historia yao, kwa kuwaheshimu wazazi, wazee, na mila, kujifunza kutokana na uzoefu wa zamani, kubaki wanyenyekevu hata baada ya mafanikio, na kudumisha imani na maadili popote wanapokwenda, ili waweze kufanikiwa katika kuwalea wanafamilia wao, katika maisha yao.

Methali huwafundisha watu kwamba, mtu anayekumbuka asili yake atakuwa na hekima, mwongozo, na utulivu maishani.

Kumbukumbu la Torati 8:2. “Kumbuka jinsi Bwana, Mungu wako, alivyokuongoza njia yote jangwani miaka hii arobaini.” Mstari huu unawafundisha watu kutosahau mahali ambapo Mungu amewaleta kutoka.

Mithali 22:28. “Usiondoe mawe ya mpaka wa zamani yaliyowekwa na mababu zako.” Hii inawakumbusha watu kuheshimu misingi na mila zilizorithiwa na mababu zao.

Luka 15:17-18. Mwana mpotevu alikumbuka nyumba ya baba yake baada ya kupotea katika maisha ya dhambi. Kukumbuka nyumba yake kulimsaidia kurudi kwenye njia sahihi.

Zaburi 78:4. “Tutawaambia kizazi kijacho matendo ya sifa ya Bwana.” Mstari huu unawahimiza watu kukumbuka na kuhifadhi historia na imani yao.

Yeremia 6:16. “Simama kwenye makutano ya barabara mkaone; uliza njia za kale, uliza njia iliyo njema iko wapi, na uifuate.” Hii inawafundisha watu kufuata njia nzuri na hekima ya zamani.

ENGLISH: HE WHO DOES NOT REMEMBER WHERE HE COMES FROM, HE GETS LOST WHERE HE GOES.

This proverb originates from traditional African wisdom. In many African communities, people were taught to remember their family background, culture, traditions, and values. Elders believed that a person who forgets his roots easily loses direction in life. The proverb was commonly used to remind young people to respect their history, parents, customs, and faith. That is why the elders told the one who forgets his roots “he who does not remember where he comes from, he gets lost where he goes.”

This proverb is compared to a person who abandons his traditions, ignores good advice from elders, and forgets the struggles that shaped his life. Such a person may become proud, confused, or make wrong decisions because he no longer remembers the foundation of his life. He fails to actualize his goals at his family because of ignoring good advice from elders in his life.

This person resembles the traveler who walks into a forest without knowing the path he used to enter. Since he has forgotten the way he came from, he becomes lost and cannot easily find the right direction. That is why people warm him saying “he who does not remember where he comes from, he gets lost where he goes.”

This proverb teaches people about: remembering their roots and background, by respecting parents, elders, and traditions, learning from past experiences, staying humble even after success, and keeping faith and moral values wherever the go, so that they be successfully in nurturing their family members, in their lives.

The proverb teaches that a person who remembers his origin will have wisdom, direction, and stability in life.

Deuteronomy 8:2. “Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years.” This verse teaches people not to forget where God has brought them from.

Proverbs 22:28. “Do not move the ancient boundary stones set up by your ancestors.” This reminds people to respect the foundations and traditions handed down by their forefathers.

Luke 15:17-18. The prodigal son remembered his father’s house after getting lost in sinful living. Remembering his home helped him return to the right path.

Psalm 78:4. “We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.” This verse encourages people to remember and preserve their history and faith.

Jeremiah 6:16. “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it.” This teaches people to follow the good paths and wisdom from the past.

 

 

 

 

1528. SUKUMA: NZILAMAKA IGANJIMIJAGA UNSIMINZI.

Ulusumo lunulo lufumilile kulikujo lya kale ilya Africa. Ikale abhasiminzi wasiminzaga bho magulu bhalibhitila mumapolu, mabhonde na mumachalo bho mduhu ramani. Abhanhu bhenabho bhashikaga aha nzilamaka bhajimija ijilunga. Hunagwene bhagayomba giki, “njilamaka iganjimijaga unsiminzi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agabhonaga wiza wingi oduma uguchagula nulu jimo umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agadumaga uguchagula josejose ulu ubhonaga majikolo mingi agawiza kunguno ya gugawila bhumani wikujo lya kikalile kiza umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agajimijaga ijilunga ja guitongela chiza ikaya yakwe kunguno ya gugaiwa bhulangwa bho guchagula chiza, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nabhasiminzi bha mumapoli abho bhagajimija ijilunga, kunguno nuweyi agajimijaga amasala ga guchagula chiza mpaga oduma uguitongela chiza ikaya yakwe ulu obhonaga majikolo mingi agawiza, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki “njizamaka iganjimijaga unsiminzi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho guchagula gwikala chiza ulubhabhonaga majikolo mingi agawiza, kugiki bhadule kupandika matwajo mingi umukaya yabho jinijo, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Mithali 3:5–6.

Mathayo 7:13–14.

Yakobo 1:5.

1Wakorintho 14:33.

SWAHILI: NJIA PANDA HUMCHANGANYA MSAFIRI.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya jadi ya Kiafrika na pia inaakisiwa katika tamaduni nyingi kote ulimwenguni. Zamani, wasafiri walisafiri kwa miguu kupitia misitu, mabonde, na vijiji bila ramani. Walipofika kwenye barabara nyingi zinazovuka yaani njia panda, waliweza kuchanganyikiwa kwa urahisi na kupoteza mwelekeo. Kwa hivyo methali hiyo iliundwa ili kuwafundisha watu umuhimu wa hekima, mwongozo, na kufanya maamuzi yaliyo wazi maishani mwao. Ndiyo maana walisema kwamba, “njia panda humchanganya msafiri.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule hukabiliwa na chaguzi nyingi maishani na hajui ni njia gani ya kufuata maishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo huweza kuchanganyikiwa kwa sababu ya maoni mengi, vishawishi, au fursa nyingi maishani. Yeye hupoteza mwelekeo wa kuongoza familia yake vizuri kwa sababu ya kukosa hekima, mwongozo, na uwezo wa kufanya maamuzi mazuri maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na wale watu waliokosa mwongozo na hekima sahihi hadi kufikia hatua ya kupoteza mwelekeo wao kwa sababu naye pia hufuata maelekezo mengi kwa wakati mmoja na hatimaye hupoteza umakini katika kuongoza familia yake hiyo maishani mwake. Kama vile msafiri anavyoweza kupotea kwenye njia panda, mtu asiye na kusudi wazi anaweza kupotea kiroho, kimaadili, au kijamii maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “njia panda humchanganya msafiri.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: umuhimu wa hekima katika kufanya maamuzi, kutafuta mwongozo kabla ya kuchagua njia, kubaki makini maishani, kuepuka mkanganyiko unaosababishwa na mawazo mengi yanayokinzana, na kuamini uongozi na mwelekeo mzuri. Inawakumbusha watu kwamba maisha yana njia nyingi, na chaguo baya zaweza kusababisha matatizo huku chaguo za busara zikiongoza kwenye mafanikio na amani maishani mwao.

Mithali 3:5–6. “Mtumaini Bwana kwa moyo wako wote, wala usizitegemee akili zako mwenyewe; katika njia zako zote mtii, naye atanyosha mapito yako.” Mstari huu unafundisha kwamba Mungu hutoa mwongozo wakati barabara za maisha zinaonekana kuchanganyikiwa.

Mathayo 7:13–14. “Ingieni kwa kupitia mlango mwembamba… mlango ni mdogo, na njia nyembamba iendayo uzimani.” Yesu anafundisha kwamba kuna njia nyingi maishani, lakini njia sahihi tu ndiyo inayoongoza kwenye uzima wa milele.

Yakobo 1:5. “Lakini mtu yeyote kati yenu akipungukiwa na hekima, na amwombe Mungu, awapaye wote kwa ukarimu.” Watu wanapokabiliwa na maamuzi yanayochanganya, wanapaswa kutafuta hekima kutoka kwa Mungu.

1Wakorintho 14:33. “Maana Mungu si Mungu wa machafuko, bali wa amani.” Mungu anatamani watu wake watembee katika uwazi, amani, na mwelekeo sahihi badala ya mkanganyiko.

Methali “njia panda humchanganya msafiri” hufundisha kwamba maisha yamejaa chaguzi na njia panda. Bila hekima, mwongozo, na imani katika Mungu, mtu anaweza kupoteza mwelekeo kwa urahisi. Watu wenye busara hutafuta ushauri, huomba uelewa, na kwa uangalifu.

ENGLISH: “INTERSECTION OF ROADS CONFUSES THE TRAVELER.”

This proverb comes from traditional African wisdom and is also reflected in many cultures around the world. In ancient times, travelers journeyed on foot through forests, valleys, and villages without maps. When they reached many crossing roads, they could easily become confused and lose direction. The proverb was therefore created to teach people the importance of wisdom, guidance, and clear decision-making in life. That is why they said, “Intersection of roads confuses the traveler.”

This proverb is compared to a person who faces many choices in life and does not know which path to follow in life. Such a person may become confused because of too many opinions, temptations, or opportunities. He loses direction of leading well his family because of lacking wisdom, guidance, and clear decision-making in life.

This person resembles those people who lacked proper guidance and wisdom to the point of losing their directions because he also follows many directions at the same time and finally loses focus in leading his family in life.

Just as a traveler can become lost at roads intersection, a person without clear purpose can become lost spiritually, morally, or socially. That is why people tell him that, “Intersection of roads confuses the traveler.”

This proverb teaches people about: the importance of wisdom in making decisions, seeking guidance before choosing a path, remaining focused in life, avoiding confusion caused by many conflicting ideas, and trusting good leadership and direction. It reminds people that life has many crossroads, and wrong choices can lead to trouble while wise choices lead to success and peace.

Proverbs 3:5–6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This verse teaches that God gives direction when life’s roads seem confusing.

Matthew 7:13–14. “Enter through the narrow gate… small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life.” Jesus teaches that there are many paths in life, but only the right path leads to eternal life.

James 1:5. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all.” When people face confusing decisions, they should seek wisdom from God.

1Corinthians 14:33.“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” God desires His people to walk in clarity, peace, and right direction rather than confusion.

The proverb “intersections of roads confuse the traveler” teaches that life is full of choices and crossroads. Without wisdom, guidance, and faith in God, a person can easily lose direction. Wise people seek counsel, pray for understanding, and carefully.