Fr. Zakaria Kashinje

1536. SUKUMA: IJIPILE MUNGUNDA JIDANINDILAGA UNG’WINJA O JILIWA UYO ALALILE.

Ulusumo lusulo lulolile likujo lya jiafrica ilo likomelejije bhukamu bho gutumama milimo chiza. Uloi lulolile jiliwa jipile ijo jilimungunda na jidakililwe gwinjiwa wangu kunguno ulu jidinjiwe wangu jigubhipa. Ung’winja ojiliwa jinijo uyo agalalaga agajimijaga isabho ijo winhiwa jinijo. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “ijipile mungunda jidanindilaga ung’winja o jiliwa uyo alalile.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo alina bhugokolo bho gukelesha guitumama imilimo yakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agagumanijaga uwasa bhokwe bho gwigasha na nduhu ugulitumila ilikanza lyakwe chiza kunguno ya bhugokolo bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agakoyiyagwa ni koye lya nzala aha kaya yakwe kunguno ya bhugokolo bhokwe ubho guleka gwigulambija gutumama milimo yakwe yiniyo, umukikalile kakwe kenako.

Umunhu ung’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo agalala ahikanja lya gwinja jiliwa jakwe umungunda mpaka nose juphipa ijiliwa jinijo, kunguno nuweyi agalekaga uguitumama imilimo yakwe mpaga oyukoyiwa na nzala aha kaya yakwe yiniyo, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “ijipile mungunda jidanindilaga ung’winja o jiliwa uyo alalile.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya kubhiza na bhuhuguku bho kugwigulambija gutumama milimo yabho chiza kugiki bhadule kupandika matwajo mingi umukaya jabho jinijo.

Mithali 10:5.

Mithali 6:9 -11.

Yohana 4:35.

Mathayo 9:37-38.

Waefeso 5:15-16.

SWAHILI: MAVUNO HAYANGOJI MVUNAJI ALIYELALA.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya Kiafrika inayosisitiza bidii, utayari, na umuhimu wa kutenda kwa wakati unaofaa. Mavuno ni msimu unaohitaji uharaka kwa sababu mazao huharibika yasipokusanywa yanapoiva. Mvunaji anayelala hupoteza fursa iliyoandaliwa kwa ajili yake. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “mavuno hayangoji mvunaji aliyelala.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye ana uvivu wa kuchelewesha majukumu muhimu maishani mwake. Mtu huyu hupuuza fursa kwa kukaa bila kuzitumia kwa wakati unaofaa kwa sababu ya uvivu wake maishani mwake. Yeye hushindwa kutenda wakati hatua inahitajika hadi kufikia hatua ya kukabiliwa na tatizo la njaa katika familia yake. Mtu kama huyo hutarajia kupata mafanikio bila juhudi na thawabu kufanya bila kazi.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule mvunaji aliyepoteza mavuno yake baada ya kulala, kwa sababu naye pia hupuuza fursa anazoziona hadi kufikia hatua ya kukabiliwa na njaa katika familia yake. Yeye ni kama mtu ambaye hajali kiroho, hupuuza wito wa Mungu, huahirisha toba, au hupoteza vipaji na fursa ambazo Mungu amempa. Wakati wengine wanafanya kazi na kujiandaa, yeye hubaki hana shughuli na hajajiandaa. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “mavuno hayangoji mvunaji aliyelala.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Umuhimu wa kufanya kazi kwa bidii maishani. Kuwa macho na tayari fursa zinapojitokeza. Hatari ya uvivu na kuahirisha mambo. Kutumia muda vizuri kwa sababu fursa hazidumu milele. Kuitikia wito na majukumu ya Mungu haraka.

Mithali 10:5. “Akusanyaye mavuno wakati wa kiangazi ni mwana mwenye busara, lakini alalaye wakati wa mavuno ni mwana mwenye aibu.” Mstari huu unafundisha moja kwa moja kwamba kulala wakati wa mavuno husababisha hasara na aibu.

Mithali 6:9 -11. “Utalala huko hadi lini, wewe mvivu? Utaamka lini kutoka usingizini?” Biblia inaonya dhidi ya uvivu kwa sababu husababisha umaskini na fursa zilizopotea.

Yohana 4:35. “Inueni macho yenu mkayatazame mashamba, kwa kuwa tayari yamekuwa meupe kwa ajili ya mavuno.” Yesu anafundisha kwamba mavuno yako tayari na wafanyakazi lazima watende bila kukawia.

Mathayo 9:37-38. “Mavuno ni mengi lakini wafanyakazi ni wachache.” Kazi ya Mungu inahitaji wafanyakazi wenye bidii na wenye nia, si wavunaji wanaolala.

Waefeso 5:15-16. “Basi, kuwa mwangalifu sana jinsi mnavyoishi… mkitumia vyema kila fursa.” Waumini wameitwa kutumia muda wao kwa busara na kutumia fursa ambazo Mungu hutoa.

Fursa ni kama mavuno yaliyoiva: huja kwa msimu na kisha hupita. Wale walio na bidii huvuna thawabu, lakini wale wanaolala usingizi wakati wa mavuno hupoteza kile ambacho kingekuwa chao. Kiroho na kimwili, mafanikio ni ya wale walio macho, waaminifu, na wenye bidii.

ENGLISH: THE HARVEST DOES NOT WAIT FOR THE SLEEPING HARVESTER.

This proverb comes from African wisdom that emphasizes diligence, readiness, and the importance of acting at the right time. Harvest is a season that requires urgency because crops become spoiled if they are not gathered when they are ripe. A sleeping harvester loses the opportunity that was prepared for him. That is why people tell him “the harvest does not wait for the sleeping harvester.”

This proverb is compared to a person who has laziness of delaying important responsibilities in his life. This person ignores opportunities by staying without using them at a right time because of his laziness in his life. He fails to act when action is needed to the point of facing famine at his family. Such a person expects success without effort and reward without labor.

This person resembles the harvester who lost his harvest after sleeping, because he also ignores opportunities to the point of facing famine at his family. He is like someone who is spiritually careless, neglects God’s calling, postpones repentance, or wastes the talents and opportunities God has given. While others are working and preparing, he remains inactive and unprepared. That is why people tell him “the harvest does not wait for the sleeping harvester.”

This proverb teaches people about: The importance of hard work and diligence. Being alert and ready when opportunities arise. The danger of laziness and procrastination. Making good use of time because opportunities do not last forever. Responding promptly to God’s call and responsibilities.

Proverbs 10:5. “He who gathers crops in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.” This verse directly teaches that sleeping during harvest leads to loss and shame.

Proverbs 6:9-11. “How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?” The Bible warns against laziness because it leads to poverty and missed opportunities.

John 4:35. “Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.” Jesus teaches that the harvest is ready and workers must act without delay.

Matthew 9:37-38. “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” God’s work requires active and willing laborers, not sleeping harvesters.

Ephesians 5:15-16. “Be very careful, then, how you live… making the most of every opportunity.” Believers are called to use their time wisely and seize opportunities God provides.

Opportunities are like a ripe harvest: they come for a season and then pass away. Those who are diligent reap the reward, but those who sleep through the harvest lose what could have been theirs. Spiritually and physically, success belongs to those who are watchful, faithful, and hardworking.

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.

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.

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.