Joe Healey

1539. SUKUMA: LILONDA LYA MUNHOLO LIDABHONAGWA BHO MISO.

Ulusumo lunulo lwingilile kusumo ja jiafrica. Lulimhoyela munhu uyo agakoyiyagwa ni lilolanda lya mugati ya mholo yakwe ilo lidabhonagwa ubho miso na bhiye. Ililonda linilo ligaminyaga uweyi bho sele sele duhu kunguno abhanhu bhadalibhonaga. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “lilonda lya munholo lidabhonagwa bho miso.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agolechaga bhuyeji bho bhanze aliyo alina makoye umugati yakwe, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umungu ng’wunuyo, agayegana na gwigela giki alina nguzu bho hanze ukunu alina bhupina bhutale umunholo yakwe kunguno ya bhusatu bho makoye gakwe genayo ayo bhadagabhonabho abhiye umukikalile kakwe. Uweyi agiyumilijaga bho sele sele uguyilela ikaya yakwe kunguno nduhu uyo agagabhonaga amakoye gakwe genayo umukikalile kakwe.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo wiyumilijaga bhusadu bho lilonda lyakwe, kunguno nuweyi agagiyumilija amakoye agaguyilela chiza ikaya yakwe yiniyo umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “lilonda lya munholo lidabhonagwa bho miso.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na lisungu lya gubhambilija abhanhu abho bhali na makoye kugiki bhadule gupandika mbango ja gwikala na bhuyegi umukaya jabho jinijo.

Mithali 14:10.

Zaburi 34:18.

1Samweli 16:7.

Mathayo 11:28.

Zaburi 147:3.

SWAHILI: KIDONDA CHA MOYO HAKIONEKANI KWA MACHO.

Asili ya methali hii inapatikana katika mila na misemo mingi yenye hekima za Kiafrika. Inaelezea ukweli kwamba maumivu ya kihisia, kiroho, na kisaikolojia hayawezi kuonekana kwa nje kama kidonda cha mwilini, lakini yanaweza kuwa ya kina na yenye uchungu zaidi. Mtu aliye na kidonda hicho ndani yake huteseka kimya kimya maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “kidonda cha moyo halionekani kwa macho.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule anayeonekana mwenye furaha lakini ana majeraha ndani yake maishani mwake. Mtu huyu hutabasamu na kuonekana mwenye nguvu kwa nje huku akiwa na huzuni kubwa maishani mwake kwa sababu ya kuwa na huzuni, na maumivu ya kihisia ndani ya maisha yake. Yeye huvumilia mateso kimya kimya katika kuwalea wanafamilia wake kwa sababu hakuna anayeweza kuona maumivu yaliyomo moyoni mwake.

Mtu huyo hufanana na mtu aliyeteseka kutokana na maumivu yake, kwa sababu naye pia huteseka kutokana na maumivu ya kihisia maishani mwake. Yeye ni kama mtu ambaye mwili wake unaonekana kuwa na afya njema, lakini moyo wake umelemewa na kukataliwa, usaliti, upweke, hatia, au hasara. Wengine wanaweza wasigundue maumivu hayo kwa sababu yamefichwa ndani mwake. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “kidonda cha moyo halionekani kwa macho.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Kuwa na huruma na uelewa kwa wengine. Kuepuka hukumu za haraka kwa sababu hatujui wengine wanapitia nini. Umuhimu wa kuwafariji na kuwatia moyo wale wanaoumia. Kutafuta uponyaji kwa majeraha ya kihisia na kiroho. Kuonesha wema, kwa kuwa maumivu yaliyofichwa mara nyingi ni makubwa kuliko maumivu yanayoonekana.

Mithali 14:10. “Moyo hujua uchungu wake, wala mgeni hashiriki furaha yake.” Mstari huu unafundisha kwamba maumivu mengine hujulikana tu kwa mtu anayeyapitia.

Zaburi 34:18. “Bwana yuko karibu nao waliovunjika moyo, huwaokoa waliopondeka roho.” Mungu huona na huponya majeraha ambayo macho ya wanadamu hayawezi kuona.

1Samweli 16:7. “Mwanadamu hutazama sura ya nje, bali Bwana hutazama moyo.” Wakati watu wanaona nje, Mungu huona hali iliyofichwa ya moyo.

Mathayo 11:28. “Njooni kwangu, ninyi nyote mlio na kazi na wenye kulemewa na mizigo, nami nitawapumzisha.” Yesu anawaalika wale waliobeba mizigo isiyoonekana kupata faraja kwake.

Zaburi 147:3. “Huwaponya waliovunjika moyo na kuyafunga majeraha yao.” Mungu ndiye mponyaji wa majeraha yanayoonekana na yasiyoonekana.

Jeraha la kimwili linaweza kuonekana na kila mtu, lakini jeraha la moyoni mara nyingi hufichwa. Kwa hivyo, tunapaswa kuwatendea wengine kwa wema, uvumilivu, na upendo, tukikumbuka kwamba ni Mungu pekee anayejua kikamilifu maumivu ambayo watu hubeba ndani yao.

ENGLISH: A HEART WOUND IS INVISIBLE TO THE EYES.

The original of this proverb is found in many African traditions and wisdom sayings. It expresses the truth that emotional, spiritual, and psychological pain cannot be seen outwardly like a physical wound, yet it can be deeper and more painful. The person who has inner wounds suffers silently in his life. That is why he says, “a heart wound is invisible to the eyes.”

This proverb is compared to a person who appears happily but has wounds within him in life. This person smiles and appears strong on the outside while carrying deep sorrow in his life because of having disappointment, grief, and emotional pain within himself in life. He endures sufferings silently in nurturing his family members because no one can see the wounds which are in his heart.

This person resembles the person who suffers from his wounds, because he also suffers from emotional pain in his life. He is like someone whose body appears healthy, but whose heart is burdened by rejection, betrayal, loneliness, guilt, or loss. Others may not notice the pain because it is hidden inside. That is why people say about him “a heart wound is invisible to the eyes.”

This proverb teaches people about: Being compassionate and understanding toward others. Avoiding quick judgments because we do not know what others are going through. The importance of comforting and encouraging those who are hurting. Seeking healing for emotional and spiritual wounds. Showing kindness, since hidden pain is often greater than visible pain.

Proverbs 14:10. “The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.” This verse teaches that some pains are known only to the person experiencing them.

Psalm 34:18. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” God sees and heals wounds that human eyes cannot see.

1Samuel 16:7. “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” While people see the outside, God sees the hidden condition of the heart.

Matthew 11:28. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus invites those carrying invisible burdens to find comfort in Him.

Psalm 147:3. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” God is the healer of both visible and invisible wounds.

A physical wound may be seen by everyone, but a wound in the heart is often hidden. Therefore, we should treat others with kindness, patience, and love, remembering that only God fully knows the pain that people carry within.

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.

1534. SUKUMA: ING’OMA IDIGWIYAGWA BHO NDUHU GUITULA.

Imbuki ya lusumo lunulo igigelelaga umumijilo ya jiafrica, iyo ilikihamo na bhananzengo abho bhagatumilaga ng’oma gushisha nhulu, bhuyegi, kubhichabho, iyo igasagaga sele mumho munhu aitule. Ubhulingisilo bhoyo bhugashiga ulu munhu uyitula. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagayombaga giki, “ing’oma idigwiyagwa bho nduhu guitula.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo alina jinhilwa, nguzu, nulu masala aliyo adagatumamilaga chiza umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agabhubhisaga ubhuduma bhokwe bhunubho bho gwikala ahumulile aho yigelelilwe abhutumamile ubhudula bhunubho bho gubhatongela abhanhu bha ha kaya yake. Uweyi agabhalekaga abhanhu bha ha kaya yakwe yiniyo bhakoyiwa na makoye gaguduma gubhiza na nhungwa jawiza kunguno ya gubhubhisa ubhudula bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga ni ng’oma iyo idatulagwa kunguno nuweyi adabhutumamilaga ubhudula bhokwe mpaka bhagayiwa ililange ilyawiza abhanhu bhakwe umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “ing’oma idigwiyagwa bho nduhu guitula.”

Ulusumo lunulo, lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho gubhutumamila chiza ubhuduma na masala gabho kugiki bhadule kujilela chiza ikaya jabho, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Yakobo 2:17.

1Petro 4:10.

Yakobo 1:22.

Mathayo 25:14–30.

SWAHILI: NGOMA HAISIKIKI BILA KUIPIGA.

Asili ya methali hii inapatikana katika mila mbalimbali za Kiafrika, ikiwa ni pamoja na jamii ambapo ngoma hutumika kuwasilisha ujumbe, kutangaza sherehe, kuwaita watu pamoja, na kuashiria matukio muhimu. Ngoma inaweza kutengenezwa kwa uzuri, lakini inabaki kimya isipokuwa mtu aipige. Kusudi lake hutimizwa tu wakati hatua inapochukuliwa. Ndiyo maana watu husema kwamba, “ngoma haisikiki bila kuipiga.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye ana vipaji, maarifa, vipawa, au fursa lakini hazitumii katika maisha yake. Mtu huyu huficha vipaji na maarifa yake kwa kukaa kimya ambapo anatakiwa kuvitumia katika kuongoza maisha ya watu wa familia yake. Yeye huwaacha watu wake wakumbane na magumu ya kukosa malezi sahihi ya kuwa na tabia njema kwa sababu ya kuficha vipaji na maarifa yake katika maisha yake ya kila siku.

Mtu huyu hufanana na ile ngoma ambayo haipigwi, kwa sababu naye pia hatumii uwezo wake kwa vitendo hadi kufikia hatua ya kuwaacha wanafamilia wake wakose malezi sahihi ya kuwapatia tabia njema, maishani mwake. Kama vile ngoma isivyoweza kutoa sauti bila kupigwa, uwezo wa mtu hauwezi kuwanufaisha wengine isipokuwa ufanyike.

Mtu huyu pia hufanana na mtu ambaye: ana mawazo mazuri lakini huwa hayatekelezi. Anajua lililo sahihi lakini anashindwa kulifanya, na ana karama za kiroho lakini hazitumii kumtumikia Mungu na wengine. Yeye ndiye anayesubiri mafanikio bila kufanya juhudi yoyote maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana watu humwambia kwamba, “Ngoma haisikiki bila kuipiga.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Umuhimu wa kutenda mema kwa juhudi maishani. Kutumia vipaji na uwezo wao kwa tija. Kuchukua hatua badala ya kubaki bila shughuli. Ukweli unaotokana huja kupitia kazi na ushiriki. Haja ya kuweka imani, maarifa, na hekima katika vitendo, ili waweze kufanikiwa katika maisha yao.

Yakobo 2:17 “Imani yenyewe, ikiwa haina matendo, imekufa.” Kama vile ngoma ilivyo kimya bila kupigwa, imani haina ufanisi bila matendo.

1Petro 4:10 “Kila mmoja wenu atumie karama yoyote aliyopokea kuwatumikia wengine.” Mungu hutoa karama ili zitumike, si kufichwa.

Yakobo 1:22 “Iweni watendaji wa neno, wala si wasikiaji tu.” Maarifa huwa na thamani yanapotekelezwa.

Mathayo 25:14–30, watumishi waliotumia talanta zao walizawadiwa, huku yule aliyeficha talanta yake akihukumiwa. Mungu anatarajia karama Zake zifanyiwe kazi.

Ngoma hutimiza kusudi lake tu inapopigwa, na Mkristo hutimiza wito wake kwa kumtumikia Mungu kwa bidii. Mungu hubariki juhudi, huduma ya uaminifu, na utii. Kwa hiyo, waumini hawapaswi kuficha karama zao, kubaki wavivu, au kusema maneno mazuri tu; wanapaswa kutenda kulingana na wito wa Mungu na kuacha maisha yao yazae matunda yanayomtukuza yeye.

ENGLISH: “A DRUM IS NOT HEARD WITHOUT BEATING IT.”

The Original of this proverb is found in various African traditions, including communities where drums are used to communicate messages, announce celebrations, call people together, and signal important events. A drum may be beautifully made, but it remains silent unless someone beats it. Its purpose is fulfilled only when action is taken. That is why people say “a drum is not heard without beating it.”

This proverb is compared to a person who has talents, knowledge, gifts, or opportunities but does not use them. This person hides his talents and knowledge by remaining silent where he is supposed to apply them for leading his family life. He lets his people face difficulties of missing proper nurtures of behaving because of hiding his talents and knowledge in his daily life.

This person resembles a drum which is not struck, because he also does not put into action his abilities to the point of letting his family members miss proper nurture of behaving in his life. Just as a drum cannot produce sound without being struck, a person’s abilities cannot benefit others unless they are put into action.

This person also resembles someone who: has great ideas but never acts on them. He knows what is right but fails to do it, and possesses spiritual gifts but does not use them to serve God and others. He is the one who waits for success without making any effort. That is why people tell him, “A drum is not heard without beating it.”

This proverb teaches people about: The importance of action and effort in life. Using their talents and abilities productively. Taking initiative instead of remaining idle. The truth that results come through work and participation. The need to put faith, knowledge, and wisdom into practice, so that they may be successifully in their lives.

James 2:17 “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Just as a drum is silent without being beaten, faith is ineffective without action.

1Peter 4:10 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others.” God gives gifts to be used, not hidden.

James 1:22 “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Knowledge becomes valuable when it is practiced.

Matthew 25:14–30, servants who used their talents were rewarded, while the one who hid his talent was condemned. God expects His gifts to be put to work.

A drum fulfills its purpose only when it is beaten, and a Christian fulfills his or her calling by actively serving God. God blesses effort, faithful service, and obedience. Therefore, believers should not hide their gifts, remain idle, or merely speak good words; they should act upon God’s calling and let their lives produce fruits that glorify Him.

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.

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.