Don Sybertz

1545. SUKUMA: MUMO IGASEB’ELA IFUGO UDOYA UGUJA MOYI.

Usulumo lunulo luhoyelile nungu ya guzugila, golecha giki jilijiseme ja solobho umuguzugila ijiliwa jilijo. Jifumilile mumahoya ga jiafrika ayo gagolechaga nimo go nungu ugogolecha kaya iyo igalanhanagwa na jiliwe. Inungu ya guzugila ihingi igasebhaga noyi ahikanza lya kuzuga jiliwa, aliyo kihamo nubhusebhu bhunubho, abhanhu bhagamanaga bhuchala amakono gabho moyi kunguno igikalaga na jiliwa ja gubhambilija bhanhu gwikala musi. Hunagwene abhanhu bhenabho bhagayombaga giki, “mumo igaseb’ela ifugo udoya uguja moyi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agasagaga ntungulija aha kaya yakwe kihamo nu gupandika bhudamu umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo agigulambijaga gutumama milimo midamu bho gwiyumilija chiza kunguno ya bhutungilija bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agadulaga uguitongela chiza ikaya yakwe kunguno ya bhutungilija bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nabho bhalyaga jiliwa jamungu nsebhu, kunguno nuweyi agiyumilijaga gutumama milimo midamu mpaka ayitongela chiza ikaya yakwe umuwikaji bhokwe. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “mumo igaseb’ela ifugo udoya uguja moyi.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na wiyumilija bho gwigulambija kutumama milimo yabho chiza, kugiki bhadule gupandika mbango ja gubhiza na matwajo mingi, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Yakobo 1:2–4.

Zaburi 136:25.

Warumi 5:3–5.

Wagalatia 6:9.

Yohana 16:33.

Waebrania 10:35–36.

HATA KAMA CHUNGU CHA KUPIKIA KINACHEMKA, HUACHI KUKIENDEA.

Methali hii inarejelea chungu cha kupikia, chombo muhimu kinachotumika kutayarisha chakula. Inatokana na hekima ya jadi ya maongezi ya Kiafrika, ambapo chungu cha kupikia huashiria nyumba, familia, au mahali pa lishe, utunzaji, na mali. Chungu cha kupikia mara nyingi huchemka kwa nguvu na huwa cha moto sana wakati chakula kinapoandaliwa, lakini watu huendelea kukikaribia kwa sababu hutoa chakula wanachohitaji ili kuishi. Kwa sababu hii, watu husema, “Hata kama chungu cha kupikia kinachemka, huachi kukiendea.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu anayebaki mwaminifu kwa familia yake, marafiki, kazi, au sababu inayostahili licha ya ugumu, kutoelewana, au vikwazo vya muda maishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo huelewa kwamba matatizo ya muda, usumbufu, au migogoro haipaswi kumfanya mtu yeyote kuacha kile ambacho ni cha thamani au muhimu maishani mwake. Yeye huweza kuiongoza na kuitunza familia yake vizuri kwa sababu ya kutambua kwamba baraka za kudumu mara nyingi huhitaji uvumilivu, na kujitolea maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na wale watu walioendelea kula chakula ambacho kilikuwa kwenye chungu cha moto, kwa sababu naye pia huendelea katika magumu hadi kufikia hatua ya kuwaongoza vyema wanafamilia wake maishani mwake. Yeye hayaachi majukumu yake, mahusiano, au imani yake kwa sababu tu ya changamoto zinazotokea. Badala yake, huendelea kuyatekeleza kwa ujasiri, hekima, na matumaini majukumu yake, akiamini kwamba nyakati ngumu hatimaye zitapita. Hubakia akiwa amejitolea kuyatekeleza yaliyo mema na yenye thamani, akikumbuka msemo huu, “Hata kama chungu cha kupikia kinachemka, huachi kukiendea.”

Methali Hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: kuvumilia katika magumu maishani. Kuendelea kuwa mwaminifu kwa familia, jamii, na majukumu ya kibinafsi. Kutambua thamani ya kudumu ya kitu licha ya changamoto zake za muda. Kuendelea kujitolea kwa Mungu na watu wake hata wakati maisha yanapokuwa magumu. Kuelewa kwamba malengo yenye thamani mara nyingi huhitaji uvumilivu, na tumaini.

Yakobo 1:2–4. “Hesabuni kuwa ni furaha tupu… kila mnapokabiliwa na majaribu ya aina nyingi… kwa sababu kujaribiwa kwa imani yenu huleta uvumilivu. Kama vile watu wanavyoendelea kurudi kwenye chungu licha ya kuchemka, Wakristo wanaitwa kubaki imara katika majaribu ya maisha, wakijua kwamba uvumilivu huzaa ukomavu wa kiroho.

Warumi 5:3–5. Mateso huzaa uvumilivu; uvumilivu huzaa tabia, na tabia huzaa matumaini.

Wagalatia 6:9. “Tusichoke katika kutenda mema, maana tutavuna mavuno kwa wakati wake tusipokata tamaa.” Mstari huu unawahimiza waumini kubaki waaminifu hata wakati safari ni ngumu.

Yohana 16:33. “Katika ulimwengu huu mtapata dhiki. Lakini jipeni moyo! Mimi nimeushinda ulimwengu.” Yesu anawakumbusha wafuasi wake kwamba magumu hayaepukiki, lakini ushindi wake unawapa tumaini na ujasiri wa kuvumilia.

Waebrania 10:35–36. Waumini wanahimizwa wasitupe ujasiri wao bali wavumilie ili waweze kupokea ahadi za Mungu.

ENGLISH: EVEN IF THE COOKING POT IS BOILING, YOU DO NOT STOP GOING TO IT.

This proverb refers to a cooking pot, an essential utensil used for preparing food. It comes from traditional African oral wisdom, where the cooking pot symbolizes a home, family, or a place of nourishment, care, and belonging. A cooking pot often boils vigorously and becomes very hot while food is being prepared, yet people continue to approach it because it provides the food they need to live. For this reason, people say, “Even if the cooking pot is boiling, you do not stop going to it.”

This proverb is compared to a person who remains faithful to his family, friends, work, or a worthy cause despite hardships, misunderstandings, or temporary setbacks in his life. Such a person understands that temporary difficulties, discomforts, or conflicts should not cause anyone to abandon what is valuable or necessary in life. He is able to lead and care for his family well because of recognizing that lasting blessings often require patience, perseverance, and commitment in life.

This person resembles to those who continued to eat the food which was a poiling pot, becacause he also carries on induring the hardships to the point managing to lead well his family members. He does not give up on his responsibilities, relationships, or faith simply because challenges arise. Instead, he continues with courage, wisdom, and hope, trusting that difficult times will eventually pass. He remains committed to what is good and worthwhile, remembering the saying, “Even if the cooking pot is boiling, you do not stop going to it.”

This proverb teaches people about: persevering through hardships and difficulties. Remaining faithful to family, community, and personal responsibilities. Recognizing the lasting value of something despite its temporary challenges. Staying committed to God and His people even when life becomes difficult. Understanding that worthwhile goals often require patience, endurance, and hope.

James 1:2–4. “Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds… because the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Just as people continue to return to the cooking pot despite its boiling, Christians are called to remain steadfast through life’s trials, knowing that perseverance produces spiritual maturity.

Romans 5:3–5. Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance develops character, and character produces hope.

Galatians 6:9. “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” This verse encourages believers to remain faithful even when the journey is difficult.

John 16:33. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Jesus reminds His followers that hardships are unavoidable, but His victory gives them hope and courage to endure.

Hebrews 10:35–36. Believers are encouraged not to throw away their confidence but to persevere so that they may receive God’s promises.

1544. SUKUMA: IKAYA IYO IGASALILAGA KIHAMO IGIKALAGA KIHAMO.

Olihoyi munhu uyo osalilaga kihamo ni kaya yakwe. Uweyi obhakomelejaga abha ha kaya yakwe gusalila rozari kubhulingisilo bho gubhalumanya chiza abhanhu bhakwe umuwikaji bhokwe. Ubhulingisilo bhokwe bhunubho bhugabhambilija abhanhu bhakwe gwikala kihamo umuwikaji bhobho. Hunagwene agayomba giki, “ikaya iyo igasalilaga kihamo igikalaga kihamo.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agantongejaga Mulungu aha kaya yakwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, obhakomelejaga gusalila kihamo abhanhu bhakwe bho gung’wisanya Mulungu umukakoye nu mubhuyegi, na gwilekeja kunguno ya gunzunya mulungu umukikalile kakwe. Uweyi agadujaga ugubhalela chiza abhanhu bha ha kaya yakwe kunguno ya gung’wisanya Mulungu umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga nuyo osalilaga kihamo ni kaya yakwe mpaka ubhambilija gwikala kihamo abhanhu bhakwe kunguno nuweyi agang’wisanya Mulungu mpaga obhalela chiza abhanhu bhakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “ikaya iyo igasalilaga kihamo ikikalaga kihamo.”

Ulusumo lunulo lobhalanga abhanhu gubhiza na witegeleja bho gung’wisanya Mulungu na gwitogwa umubhuzunya bhobho kugiki bhadule gujilela chiza ikaya jabho, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Yoshua 24:15.

Mathayo 18:20.

Wakolosai 3:13-14.

Waefeso 6:1-4.

Zaburi 127:1.

Matendo 2:46–47.

SWAHILI: FAMILIA INAYOSALI PAMOJA HUDUMU PAMOJA.

Kulikuwa na mtu aliyesali pamoja na familia yake. Alihimiza wanafamilia wake kusali sala ya familia, hasa Rozari, kupitia Rozari ya Familia kwa lengo la kuwaunganisha wanafamilia wote maishani mwao. Lengo lake liliwawezesha wanafamilia kubaki wameungana pamoja maishani mwao. Ndiyo maana yeye alisema kwamba, “familia inayosali pamoja hudumu pamoja.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule anayemtanguliza Mungu katika familia yake. Mtu kama huyo huwatia moyo wanafamilia wake wa kusali pamoja, kumwamini Mungu wakati wa furaha na shida, kusameheana, na kuimarisha umoja wa familia kupitia imani. Yeye aliweza kuwalea vyema wanafamilia wake kwa sababu ya kumtanguliza Mungu katika maisha ya familia yake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule aliyesali pamoja na familia yake vya kutosha kuiwezesha familia yake kukaa pamoja, kwa sababu ya kumweka Mungu mahali pa kwanza katika familia yake hadi kufikia hatua ya kuwalea vyema wanafamilia maishani mwake. Yeye huiongoza familia kwa imani na mfano mzuri wa kuigwa na huleta amani na upatanisho kwenye migogoro inapotokea, kwa kuhimiza upendo, heshima kwa wanafamilia wote. Yeye pia humtegemea Mungu badala ya nguvu za kibinadamu pekee kwa ajili ya kujenga familia yenye maadili ya kiroho na utii kwa Mungu. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “familia inayosali pamoja hudumu pamoja.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu kumweka Mungu mahali pa kwanza katika familia zao kwa kukuza sala ya familia, umoja, kuamini mwongozo wa Mungu, ulinzi, upendo, utunzaji wa pamoja miongoni mwa wanafamilia, na nguvu ya imani katika kushinda changamoto, ili waweze kujenga familia imara juu ya msingi wa kiroho badala ya kimwili tu katika maisha yao.

Yoshua 24:15. “Mimi na nyumba yangu, tutamtumikia Bwana.”

Mathayo 18:20. “Kwa maana walipo wawili au watatu wamekusanyika kwa jina langu, mimi nipo hapo pamoja nao.”

Wakolosai 3:13-14. Mtakatifu Paulo anawaita waumini kusameheana na kuvaa upendo, ambao hufunga kila kitu pamoja katika umoja kamili.

Waefeso 6:1-4 inawafundisha watoto na wazazi kuishi katika utii, upendo, na nidhamu ya kimungu.

Zaburi 127:1. “Bwana asipoijenga nyumba, wajenzi wanafanya kazi bure.”

Matendo 2:46–47. Waumini wa mwanzo walikutana pamoja kwa umoja, maombi, na ushirika, wakionesha nguvu inayotokana na imani ya pamoja.

Kwa hiyo, methali hii “Familia inayosali pamoja huduma pamoja” inatukumbusha kwamba umoja wa kudumu wa familia hujengwa juu ya uhusiano wa pamoja na Mungu. Familia zinazosali pamoja hujenga vifungo imara vya upendo, uaminifu, msamaha, na kuwawezesha kukabiliana na changamoto za maisha kwa imani na matumaini.

ENGLISH: A FAMILY THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER.

There was a person who prayed together with his family. He promoted family prayer, especially the Rosary, through the Family Rosary because of aiming at uniting all family members on the way to God. His aim enabled the famiy members to stay united together in his life. That is why he said “a family that prays together stays together.”

This proverb is compared to a person who places God at the center of his family life. Such a person encourages family members to pray together, trust God in times of joy and difficulty, forgive one another, and strengthen family unity through faith. He managed to nicely nurture his family members because of placing God at the center of the family in his life.

This person resembles the one who prayed together with his family enough to enable his family stay together, because of placing God at the center of his family to the point of nurturing well the family members in his life. He leads the family by faith and good example and brings peace and reconciliation whenever conflicts arise by encouraging love, respect, and mutual support among family members. He also depends on God rather than human strength alone by building a home founded on spiritual values and obedience to God. That is why he says, “a family that prays together stays together.”

This proverb teaches people about of placing God at the center of their family by promoting family prayer, unity, hormany, trust in God’s guidance, protection, love, fogiviness, mutual care among family members, and power of faith in overcoming challenges, so that they can build a strong family on spiritual rather than material foundation in their lives.

Joshua 24:15. “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Matthew 18:20. “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

Colossians 3:13–14. St. Paul calls believers to forgive one another and put on love, which binds everything together in perfect unity.

Ephesians 6:1–4. teaches children and parents to live in obedience, love, and godly discipline.

Psalm 127:1. “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.”

Acts 2:46–47. The early believers met together in unity, prayer, and fellowship, demonstrating the strength that comes from shared faith.

Therefore, this proverb “a Family that prays together stays together” reminds us that lasting family unity is built on a shared relationship with God. Families that pray together develop stronger bonds of love, trust, forgiveness, and mutual support, enabling them to face life’s challenges with faith and hope.

1540. SUKUMA: UNTI GUGAMANYIKAGA KUMATWAJO GAGO.

Ulusumo lunulo lugigelaga mukikalile ka jiafrica na kuwelelo yose. Uloyi lugalingisilaga giki, ubhunhana, ni nhungwa jigolejichiwa na miito ga ng’wa munhu, gitumo unti gugamanyichiwagwa na matwajo gako. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagayomba giki, “unti gugamanyigaka kumatwajo gago.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugelenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo amiito gakwe gagang’olechaga umo ali umukikalile kakwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agitaga miito gawiza ukubhiye kunguno agiganikaga chiza umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agabhalelaga abhanhu bhakwe chiza kunguno ya bhutungilija bhokwe bhunubho umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nu nti uyo gugolechiyagwa na matwajo gago, kunguno nuweyi alina bhutungilija bho gubhitila miito gawiza abhanhu bhakwe ayo gagabhalelaga chiza, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene agabhawilaga abhanhu bhakwe giki, “unti gugamanyikaga kumatwajo gago.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na bhutungilija bho gubhitila miito gawiza abhanhu bhabho kugiki bhadule kujilela chiza ikaya jabho jinijo, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Mathayo 7:16-20.

Luka 6:43-45.

Wagalatia 5:22-23.

Yakobo 2:17.

SWAHILI: MTU HUJULIKANA KWA MATUNDA YAKE.

Methali hii hupatikana katika tamaduni nyingi za Kiafrika na pia huoneshwa katika mila za hekima za kale kote ulimwenguni. Yenyewe humaanisha kwamba asili ya kweli, tabia, na thamani ya mtu hufunuliwa na matendo, tabia, na mafanikio yake, kama vile aina na ubora wa mti unavyotambuliwa kupitia matunda yake. Ndiyo maana watu husema “mti hujulikana kwa matunda yake.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye matendo yake huonesha kwamba yeye ni nani katika maisha yake. Mtu huyu hutenda matendo mema kwa wengine kwa sababu ya kuwa na mawazo mazuri katika maisha yake. Yeye huwalea wanafamilia wake vizuri kwa sababu ya kuwa mwaminifu katika maisha yake. Anajua kwamba, haijalishi mtu anasema nini kuhusu yeye mwenyewe au wengine, matendo yenyewe hatimaye yataonesha tabia yao halisi.

Mtu huyu hufanana na mti unaozaa matunda yake halisi, kwa sababu pia huwalea wanafamilia wake vizuri kwa kuwatendea wengine matendo mema katika maisha yake. Yeye ni kama mtu anayetenda yale anayoyahubiri, huaonesha wema wake kupitia matendo yake, uaminifu wake kupitia mwenendo wake, na huonesha pia imani yake kupitia matendo mema.

Vivyo hivyo, mtu asiye mwaminifu hutambuliwa na athari mbaya za matendo yake. Ndiyo maana yeye huwafundisha wengine kwa kusema kwamba, “mti hujulikana kwa matunda yake.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Umuhimu wa kuwa na tabia njema. Thamani ya matendo kuliko maneno. Ukweli kwamba matendo mema huleta heshima na maisha ya watu huhukumiwa kwa matokeo wanayoyatoa katika matendo yao.

Mathayo 7:16-20. “Kwa matunda yao mtawatambua. Je, watu huchuma zabibu kwenye miiba, au tini kwenye miiba?… Hivyo, kwa matunda yao mtawatambua.” Yesu anafundisha kwamba asili ya kweli ya mtu hujulikana kwa matokeo ya maisha na matendo yake.

Luka 6:43-45. “Hakuna mti mzuri uzaao matunda mabaya, wala mti mbaya uzaao matunda mazuri; kila mti hutambuliwa kwa matunda yake.” Kifungu hiki kinalingana moja kwa moja na methali hiyo, kikisisitiza kwamba tabia njema huzaa matendo mema.

Wagalatia 5:22-23. “Lakini tunda la Roho ni upendo, furaha, amani, uvumilivu, wema, fadhili, uaminifu, upole na kujizuia.” Maisha ya mwamini yanapaswa kuzaa matunda ya kiroho yanayoakisi uwepo wa Mungu.

Yakobo 2:17. “Imani yenyewe, ikiwa haiambatani na matendo, imekufa.” Imani ya kweli huonyeshwa kupitia matendo yanayoonekana, kama vile mti unavyojulikana kwa matunda yake.

Sifa ya mtu hujengwa si kwa maneno, mwonekano, au ahadi, bali kwa matunda ya maisha yake. Kwa hivyo, kila mtu anapaswa kujitahidi kutoa matunda mema upendo, uaminifu, wema, uaminifu, na haki ili wengine waweze kuona wema wa Mungu kupitia matendo yao.

ENGLISH: “A TREE IS KNOWN BY ITS FRUITS.”

This proverb is found in many African cultures and is also reflected in ancient wisdom traditions around the world. It means that the true nature, character, and value of a person are revealed by their actions, behavior, and achievements, just as the type and quality of a tree are recognized by the fruits it produces. That is why people say “a tree is known by its fruits.”

This proverb is compared to a person whose deeds reveal who they truly are in his life. This person truly practices decent deeds to others because of having decent thoughts in his life. He nicely nurtures his family members because of being honest in his life. He know that, no matter what a person says about himself or others, their actions will eventually show their real character.

This person resembles the tree which produces his real fruits, because he also nurtures nicely his family members by doing decent deeds to others in his life. He like someone who practices what they preach, demonstrates kindness through actions, shows honesty through conduct, and reveals faith through good works. Likewise, a dishonest or harmful person is recognized by the negative effects of their actions. That is why he teaches others by saying,“a tree is known by its fruits.”

This proverb teaches people about: The significance of good character. The value of actions over words. Personal responsibility for one’s behavior. The fact that good deeds bring honor and respect. The truth that people’s lives are judged by the results they produce.

Matthew 7:16-20. “By their fruits you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?… Thus, by their fruits you will recognize them.” Jesus teaches that a person’s true nature is known by the results of their life and actions.

Luke 6:43-45. “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit.” This passage directly parallels the proverb, emphasizing that good character produces good deeds.

Galatians 5:22-23. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” A believer’s life should produce spiritual fruit that reflects God’s presence.

James 2:17. “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” True faith is demonstrated through visible actions, just as a tree is known by its fruit.

A person’s reputation is built not by words, appearance, or promises, but by the fruits of their life. Therefore, everyone should strive to produce good fruits love, honesty, kindness, faithfulness, and righteousness so that others may see the goodness of God through their actions.

1535. UYO WIBHA UKO OFUMILA, AGAJIMILAGA UKO ALIJA.

Imbuki ya lusumo lunulo igigelaga umukikalile ka jiafrica. Ulusumo lunulo luhoyelile munhu uyo agiibha uko ofimila mpaga nose ujimija ubhulingisilo bho wikaji bhokwe. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wila giki, “uyo wibha uko ofumila, agajimilaga uko alija.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agalyibhaga ililange lya bhatale bhakwe umukikalile kakwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agalyibhaga ililange lya bhatale bhakwe bho guligumanija sagala kunguno ya bhujidalonja bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe. Uweyi agafunyaga bhulamuji bhubhi aha kaya yakwe kunguno ya gulileka ililange lya bhatale bhakwe umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo agayiibha isumo yakwe mpaga ujimila uko ojaga, kunguno nuweyi agalyibhaga ililange lya bhatale bhakwe mpaka oyufunya bhulamuji bhubhi aha kaya yakwe, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo wibha uko ofumila, agajimilaga uko alija.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho gulikalana chiza ililange lya bhatale bhabho kugiki bhadule gujilela chiza ikaya jabho, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Kumbukumbu la Torati 32:7.

Zaburi 78:4.

Yeremia 6:16.

Mithali 22:28.

SWAHILI: ASIYESAHAU ALIPOTOKA, HUPOTEA ANAKOENDA.

Asili ya Methali hiyo hapo juu hupatikana katika tamaduni nyingi za Kiafrika. Methali hii huelezea maana ya kukumbuka mizizi, historia, familia, mila, na maadili ya mtu. Yenyewe humzungumzia mtu aliyesahau asili yake na hivyo kupoteza utambulisho wake, mwelekeo, na kusudi lake maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana watu walimwambia kwamba, “asisahau alikotoka, hupotea anakoenda.”

Methali hii ni sawa na mtu anayeacha urithi wake kwa kupuuza hekima ya wazee wake maishani mwake. Mtu huyu husahau masomo yaliyounda maisha yake. Yeye huathiriwa kwa urahisi na mawazo potofu hadi kufikia hatua ya kufanya maamuzi mabaya kwa sababu ya kuacha msingi wake imara maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule aliyepoteza kusudi lake baada ya kusahau asili yake kwa sababu naye pia husahau mafundisho ya wazee wake hadi kufikia hatua ya kufanya maamuzi mabaya maishani mwake. Ni kama msafiri anayesafiri safari ndefu bila ramani au dira. Kwa sababu hajui alikoanzia, hawezi kuamua kwa usahihi juu ya njia sahihi ya kufuata anakokwenda. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “asisahau alikotoka, hupotea anakoenda.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: umuhimu wa kukumbuka mizizi na urithi wao. Kuheshimu familia, utamaduni, na mila. Kujifunza kutokana na uzoefu wa zamani. Kujenga mustakabali juu ya msingi imara kwa kudumisha utambulisho na kusudi maishani.

Kumbukumbu la Torati 32:7. “Kumbuka siku za kale; fikiria vizazi vilivyopita. Mwulize baba yako, naye atakuambia, wazee wako, nao watakueleza.” Mstari huu unawahimiza watu kukumbuka historia yao na kujifunza kutoka kwa wale waliowatangulia.

Zaburi 78:4. “Hatutawaficha watoto wao; tutawaambia kizazi kijacho matendo ya sifa ya Bwana.” Watu wa Mungu wameagizwa kukumbuka na kurithisha urithi wao kwa vizazi vijavyo.

Yeremia 6:16. “Simama kwenye njia panda, utazame, uliza njia za kale, uliza, njia njema iko wapi, na uifuate.” Nabii anafundisha kwamba hekima hupatikana kwa kukumbuka na kufuata njia njema za zamani.

Mithali 22:28. “Usiondoe jiwe la mpaka wa kale lililowekwa na baba zako.” Mstari huu unasisitiza heshima kwa urithi na misingi iliyoanzishwa na vizazi vilivyopita.

Mtu anayekumbuka alikotoka hutembea kwa hekima, utambulisho, na kusudi. Kukumbuka mizizi ya mtu humsaidia kufanya maamuzi mazuri, kuhifadhi mila zenye thamani, na kubaki mwaminifu kwa kanuni zinazowaongoza maishani.

ENGLISH: HE WHO FORGOT WHERE HE CAME FROM, GETS LOST WHERE HE IS GOING.

The Original of the overhead proverb is common in lots of African cultures. This proverb expresses the meaning of remembering one’s roots, history, family, traditions, and values. It talks about a person who forgot his origin as a result he lost his identity, direction, and purpose in life. That is why people told him, “He who forgot where he came from, gets lost where he is going.”

This proverb is equaled to a person who abandons his heritage by ignoring the wisdom of his elders in his life. This person forgets the lessons that shaped his life. He is easily influenced by wrong ideas to the point of making poor decisions because abandoning his firm foundation in life.

This person resembles the one who lost his purpose after forgetting his origin because he also forgets the lessions of his elders to the point of making poor decisions in his life. He is like the one who is traveling on a long journey without a map or compass. Because he does not know where he started, he cannot determine the correct path to his destination. That is why people tell him, “He who forgot where he came from, gets lost where he is going.”

This proverb teaches people about: an importance of remembering their roots and heritage. Respecting family, culture, and traditions. Learning from the experiences of the past. Building the future upon a strong foundation by maintaining identity and purpose in life.

Deuteronomy 32:7. “Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders and they will explain to you.” This verse encourages people to remember their history and learn from those who came before them.

Psalm 78:4. “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord.” God’s people are instructed to remember and pass on their heritage to future generations.

Jeremiah 6:16. “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it.” The prophet teaches that wisdom is found by remembering and following the good paths of the past.

Proverbs 22:28. “Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors.” This verse emphasizes respect for the heritage and foundations established by previous generations.

A person who remembers where he comes from walks with wisdom, identity, and purpose. Remembering ones’s roots helps him make good decisions, preserve valuable traditions, and remain faithful to the principles that guide them through life.

1533. SUKUMA: UYO OKILA MONGO NTALE ADOGOHAGA LONGA.

Ulusumo lunulo lugigelaga umukajile ka jiafrica. Uloyi lufumilile mubhumaniji wa bho bhanhu abho bhakilaga miongo mitale umulugendo lo bhusuluja nu bhusami bhobho umukikalile kabho. Umunhu uyo oduja gukila mongo ntale agabhizaga na bhudula bho gukila miongo midoni guti longa bho nduhu ugogoha. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo okila mongo ntale adogohaga longa.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo okinda mihayo midamu umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agatumamaga milimo yakwe bho bhukamu bhutale mpaga uyimala chiza, umukikalile kakwe. Uweyi agadujaga ugugamala amakoye ga ha kaya yakwe kunguno ya wiyumilija bhokwe ubho obhupandika gwingila mubhumaniji bho gumala makoye matale, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga nuyo agiyumilija gubhumala ubhudamu bho gukila miongo mitale, kunguno nuweyi agiyumilijaga gumala makoye matale mpaga opandika bhudula bho gugamala amakoye ga ha kaya yakwe, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo okila mongo ntale adogohaga longa.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na wiyumilija bho gugamala amakoye gabho wangu, kugiki bhadule kupandika nguzu ja gujitongela chiza ikaya jabho, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

1Samweli 17:36-37.

Zaburi 27:1.

Warumi 5:3-4.

Isaya 41:10.

SWAHILI: ALIYEVUKA MTO MKUBWA HAOGOPI KIJITO.

Methali hii hupatikana katika mila mbalimbali za simulizi za Kiafrika. Hiyo hutokana na uzoefu wa watu waliolazimika kuvuka mito hatari wakati wa kusafiri, biashara, uhamiaji, au maisha ya kila siku. Mtu ambaye amefanikiwa kuvuka mto mkubwa na hatari hupata ujasiri na uzoefu. Kwa hivyo, kuvuka mto mdogo hakuonekani tena kuwa mgumu au wa kutisha. Ndiyo maana watu husema kwamba “aliyevuka mto mkubwa haogopi kijito.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye tayari amekabiliwa na changamoto kubwa, magumu, au majaribu na ameyashinda kwa mafanikio maishani mwake. Mtu huyu hufanya kazi kwa ujasiri na kwa mafanikio kwa sababu ya nguvu na hekima yake aliyoipata baada ya kukabiliana na magumu makubwa maishani mwake. Yeye hufanikiwa kutatua changamoto katika familia yake kwa sababu ya uzoefu wake ambao humtia moyo vya kutosha kuondoa matatizo madogo bila kukata tamaa au kuyaogopa maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule ambaye amevumilia mateso kama yale ya kuvuka mito mikubwa, umaskini, magonjwa, au majukumu makubwa na amefanikiwa kwa ushindi, kwa sababu naye huyashinda magumu ambayo huyapitia mwaishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo hukabiliwa na changamoto mpya kwa ujasiri kwa sababu uzoefu wa zamani umeimarisha imani na tabia yake maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana watu husema kumhusu kwamba, “aliyevuka mto mkubwa haogopi kijito.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Ujasiri katika kukabiliana na changamoto za maisha. Kujifunza kutokana na uzoefu wa zamani. Kujenga hali ya kujiamini kupitia uvumilivu. Kutoruhusu vikwazo vidogo kuwakatisha tamaa. Kuamini kwamba ushindi uliopita huwaandaa kwa changamoto za baadaye. Kuimarika kupitia majaribu na magumu.

1Samweli 17:36-37 “Mtumishi wako amewaua simba na dubu; Mfilisti huyu asiyetahiriwa atakuwa kama mmoja wao… Bwana aliyeniokoa kutoka kwa makucha ya simba na makucha ya dubu ataniokoa kutoka mkononi mwa Mfilisti huyu.” Baada ya kushinda hatari kubwa zaidi, Daudi hakuogopa changamoto mpya.

Zaburi 27:1 “Bwana ni nuru yangu na wokovu wangu—nimwogope nani? Bwana ni ngome ya maisha yangu—nimwogope nani?” Wale ambao wamepitia msaada wa Mungu katika shida kubwa hupata ujasiri wa kukabiliana na ndogo.

Warumi 5:3-4 “Tunajivunia mateso yetu, kwa sababu tunajua kwamba mateso huzaa uvumilivu; tabia; na tabia, tumaini.” Kila changamoto inayoshindwa hutuandaa kwa changamoto za baadaye.

Isaya 41:10 “Usiogope, kwa maana mimi ni pamoja nawe; usifadhaike, kwa maana mimi ni Mungu wako; nitakutia nguvu na kukusaidia.” Kwa msaada wa Mungu, waumini wanaweza kukabiliana na kikwazo chochote, kiwe kikubwa au kidogo.

Mtu ambaye ameshinda magumu makubwa hupata hekima, nguvu, na ujasiri wa kukabiliana na changamoto ndogo. Vivyo hivyo, Wakristo ambao wamepitia uaminifu wa Mungu katika majaribu ya zamani wanapaswa kumwamini Yeye changamoto mpya zinapotokea.

ENGLISH: HE WHO HAS CROSSED A BIG RIVER DOES NOT FEAR A SMALL RIVER.

This proverb is found in various African oral traditions. It comes from the experience of people who had to cross dangerous rivers during travel, trade, migration, or daily life. A person who has successfully crossed a large and dangerous river gains confidence and experience. Therefore, crossing a smaller river no longer seems difficult or frightening. That is why people say “he who has crossed a big river does not fear a small river.”

This proverb is compared to a person who has already faced great challenges, hardships, or trials and has overcome them successfully in life. This person works confidently and successfully because of his strengths and wisdom gained after facing great hardships in life. He manages to solve challenges in his family because of his experience which encourages him enough to do away with smaller difficulties without being discouraged or frightened by them in his life.

This person resembles the one who has endured suffering, persecution, poverty, illness, or major responsibilities and has come through victoriously. Such a person faces new challenges with courage because past experiences have strengthened his faith and character. That is why people say about him “he who has crossed a big river does not fear a small river.”

This proverb teaches people about: Courage in facing life’s challenges. Learning from past experiences. Building confidence through perseverance. Not allowing small obstacles to discourage them. Trusting that previous victories prepare them for future challenges. Growing stronger through trials and hardships.

1 Samuel 17:36-37 “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them… The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” Having overcome greater dangers, David did not fear a new challenge.

Psalm 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” Those who have experienced God’s help in great troubles gain courage to face smaller ones.

Romans 5:3-4 “We glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Every challenge overcome prepares us for future challenges.

Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” With God’s help, believers can face any obstacle, whether great or small.

A person who has overcome great difficulties gains wisdom, strength, and confidence to face smaller challenges. Likewise, Christians who have experienced God’s faithfulness in past trials should trust Him when new challenges arise.