proverbs

1555. SUKUMA: UYO AGIJILAGA BHO NTWE ADALINDILAGA.

Imbuki ya lusumo lunulo ingilile kukajile kabhanhu bha kale ako kahoyelile munhu uyo agijilaga bho ntwe na wiminholo bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikumbagwa ginhu nulu mhayo bho gwijila bho ntwe kunguno ya wiminholo bhokwe bhunubho umukikalile kakwe. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo agijilaga bho ntwe adalindilaga.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agahayaga gupandika bhuli gene weyi bho nduhu ugulindila umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo agapelelaga wiyanguji ubho bhudadulile gung’wenhela solobho kunguno ya lwaha lokwe na wiminholo bhokwe bhunubho ubho nduhu ugulindila ijo alijihaya umukikalile kakwe kenako. Uweyi agadumaga ugukwabha aha kaya yakwe yiniyo kunguno ya lwaha lokwe ulo gwikumbwa bhuli gene bho nduhu ugulilindila ilikanza lyaho, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nu nsabhi umbuli Luka 12:16-21 uyo agakija ugwisabhya ukuli Mulungu, kunguno nuweyi agahayaga kupandika ginhu bho lwaha na bho nduhu ugulilindila ilikanza lyaho umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagang’wilaga giki, “uyo agijilaga bho ntwe adalindilaga.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya kuleka lwaha na wiminholo bho gwiyumilija gutumama milimo yabho chiza, kugiki bhadule kupandika sabho ja gutumamila umukaya jabho jinijo.

Mathayo 26:14–16.

Luka 12:15.

Mithali 15:27.

1Timotheo 6:10.

Wafilipi 4:11–12.

Waebrania 13:5.

Mathayo 6:33.

SWAHIILI: MWENYE TAMAA YA PUPA HADIRIKI KUSUBIRI.

“Mwenye tamaa ya pupa hadiriki kusubiri” ni methali ya kitamaduni inayoelezea wazo kwamba mtu anayedhibitiwa na tamaa za uchoyo huwa hana subira. Mtu kama huyo anataka kupokea, kumiliki, au kula kitu mara moja na anaweza kupata shida kusubiri kwa wakati unaofaa. Ndiyo maana watu husema kwamba, “mwenye tamaa ya pupa hadiriki kusubiri.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu yule ambaye kila wakati anataka zaidi ya kile kinachotosha na hawezi kusubiri kwa subira kwa wakati unaofaa maishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo anaweza kukimbilia kufanya maamuzi, kuchukua kile ambacho ni cha wengine, au kutoa faida za muda mrefu kwa ajili ya kuridhika mara moja kwa sababu ya uchoyo wake. Kwa mfano, mtu kama huyo mwenye tamaa anaweza kuona mafanikio ya mtu mwingine na mara moja kutaka kuyachukua, badala ya kufanya kazi kwa subira kwa ajili ya mafanikio yake mwenyewe. Yeye hushindwa kuwa katika familia yake kwa mafanikio kwa sababu ya subira yake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na tajiri mjinga katika Luka 12:16–21, ambaye alikuwa na mazao mengi na alitaka kujenga ghala kubwa zaidi ili aweze kujiwekea kila kitu. Alizingatia kukusanya mali lakini alishindwa kutambua umuhimu wa uhusiano wake na Mungu.

Pia yeye hufanana na Yuda Iskariote, ambaye aliruhusu uchoyo umshawishi na akakubali pesa ya kumsaliti Yesu (Mathayo 26:14–16). Ndiyo maana watu husema kwa mtu kama huyo kwamba, “mwenye tamaa ya pupa hadiriki kusubiri.”

Methali hiyo huwafundisha watu kwamba uchoyo huzaa kukosa subira, huku hekima ikifundisha uvumilivu na kujidhibiti.

Pia huwapa watu wazo la: kuepuka uchoyo kwa kuridhika na kile walicho nacho na kufanya kazi kwa uaminifu kwa kile wanachohitaji.

Kufanya mazoezi ya uvumilivu kwa sababu mambo mema mara nyingi huhitaji muda. Kujidhibiti kwani si kila tamaa inapaswa kutoshelezwa mara moja.

Kuheshimu mali za watu wengine kwa sababu uchoyo unaweza kusababisha dhuluma na migogoro. Kumwamini Mungu kwa sababu Mungu hutoa kulingana na hekima na wakati Wake. Kufikiria matokeo kama kukosa subira kunakosababishwa na uchoyo kunaweza kuharibu mahusiano, fursa, na hata maisha ya kiroho ya mtu. Kuridhika kwa sababu kuridhika humlinda mtu dhidi ya kudhibitiwa na tamaa nyingi.

Luka 12:15 “Jihadharini! Jihadharini na kila aina ya uchoyo; uzima haumo katika wingi wa mali.” Huenda huu ndio ulinganifu ulio wazi zaidi wa kibiblia. Yesu anaonya kwamba maisha ni muhimu zaidi kuliko mali.

Mithali 15:27, “Mwenye tamaa huharibu nyumba zake, lakini yeye achukiaye rushwa ataishi.” Uchoyo unaweza kuharibu sio tu mtu binafsi bali pia familia na jamii.

1Timotheo 6:10, “Kwa maana kupenda pesa ni mzizi wa uovu wote.” Uchoyo unapotawala moyo, mtu anaweza kufanya mambo ambayo ni hatari kwa wengine na kwake mwenyewe.

Wafilipi 4:11–12. Paulo anafundisha umuhimu wa kuridhika, iwe mtu ana vingi au vichache.

Waebrania 13:5. “Endeleeni na kupenda pesa na kuridhika na vitu mlivyo navyo.” Kuridhika ni kinyume cha uchoyo usiodhibitiwa.

Mathayo 6:33, “Tafuteni kwanza ufalme wake na haki yake.” Yesu anafundisha kwamba ufalme wa Mungu unapaswa kuja kabla ya mali na tamaa za kibinafsi.

Kwa hivyo, methali hiyo “Mwenye tamaa ya pupa hadiriki kusubiri” inatukumbusha kwamba uchoyo hufanya moyo usiwe na subira, lakini imani hufanya moyo uwe na subira. Mtu mwenye tamaa anauliza, “Ninawezaje kupata zaidi sasa?” Mtu mwaminifu anauliza, “Mapenzi ya Mungu ni nini, na je, naweza kusubiri wakati Wake?”

Kwa hivyo, Wakristo wanapaswa kubadilisha uchoyo na kuridhika, kutokuwa na subira na uvumilivu, na ubinafsi na ukarimu.

Kwa hiyo, “Moyo wenye tamaa husema kila wakati, ‘Nipe zaidi na unipe sasa.’ Moyo mwaminifu husema, ‘Nitamtumaini Mungu na kusubiri wakati Wake.’”

Mkristo anapaswa kukumbuka: kile tunachopata kupitia uchoyo kinaweza kutoweka haraka, lakini kile tunachopokea kwa uvumilivu, uaminifu, na baraka za Mungu huleta amani ya kudumu.

ENGLISH: THE GREEDY CANNOT WAIT.

“The greedy cannot wait” is a traditional proverb expressing an idea that a person who is controlled by greed becomes impatient. Such a person wants to receive, possess, or consume something immediately and may find it difficult to wait for the proper time. That is why people say, “the greedy cannot wait.”

This proverb is compared to a person who always wants more than what is enough and cannot patiently wait for the right time in his life. Such a person may rush into decisions, take what belongs to others, or sacrifice long-term benefits for immediate satisfaction because of his greed. For example, such a greedy person may see another person’s success and immediately want to take it, rather than working patiently for his or her own success. He fails to be successifully at his family because of his impatient.

This person resembles the rich fool in Luke 12:16–21, who had abundant crops and wanted to build larger barns so that he could keep everything for himself. He focused on accumulating possessions but failed to recognize the importance of his relationship with God.

It also resembles Judas Iscariot, who allowed greed to influence him and accepted money in exchange for betraying Jesus (Matthew 26:14–16). That why people say such person, the greedy cannot wait.”

The proverb teaches people that greed produces impatience, while wisdom teaches patience and self-control.

It also imparts in people an idea of: avoiding greed by being satisfied with what they have and working honestly for what they need.

Practicing patience because good things often require time. Exercising self-control as not every desire should be satisfied immediately.

Respecting other people’s possessions because greed can lead to injustice and conflict. Trusting God because God provides according to His wisdom and timing. Thinking about the consequences as impatience caused by greed can destroy relationships, opportunities, and even one’s spiritual life. Being content because contentment protects a person from being controlled by excessive desire.

Luke 12:15 “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” This is perhaps the clearest biblical parallel. Jesus warns that life is more important than possessions.

Proverbs 15:27, “The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live.” Greed can destroy not only an individual but also the family and community.

1 Timothy 6:10, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” When greed controls the heart, a person may do things that are harmful to others and to himself or herself.

Philippians 4:11–12. Paul teaches the importance of contentment, whether one has much or little.

Hebrews 13:5. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” Contentment is the opposite of uncontrolled greed.

Matthew 6:33, “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” Jesus teaches that God’s kingdom should come before material possessions and personal desires.

Therefore, that proverb “The greedy cannot wait” reminds us that greed makes the heart impatient, but faith makes the heart patient. A greedy person asks, “How can I get more now?” A faithful person asks, “What is God’s will, and can I wait for His time?”

Therefore, Christians should replace greed with contentment, impatience with patience, and selfishness with generosity.

Hence, “A greedy heart always says, ‘Give me more and give it to me now.’ A faithful heart says, ‘I will trust God and wait for His time.’”

The Christian should remember: what we gain through greed may disappear quickly, but what we receive with patience, honesty, and God’s blessing brings lasting peace.

1554. SUKUMA: UWANDIJO BHO GINHU BHULI MOTO, INGELELO YAHO IGOLECHAGA NGUZU JA NG’WA MUNHU.

Ulusumo lunulo lufumilile kuli likijo lya kale lya jiafrica umo umoto gugolechaga nguzu, na wiyanguji. Umoto gunuyo gudulile gwandya gutale gukali gete aliyo mhayo untali ili gulola uko gujile ulu giki gugushiga na bhukali bhunubho. Giko lulu, nu munhu adulile gwandya nimo bho nguvu na bhukamu bhutale aha ngelelo ya nimo gunuyo jigamanyikaga inguvu jakwe umo jilili. Hunagwene abhanhu bhagahayaga giki, “uwandijo bho ginhu bhuli moto, ingelelo yahoo igolechaga nguzu ja ng’wa munhu.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agandyaga nimo bho bhukamu bhatale na wiyumilija gutumama mpaga ogumala chiza umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agiyumilija gutumama milimo yakwe chiza nulu alipandika bhudamu bho makoye ga bhuli mbika kunguno ya wiyumilija bhokwe bhunubho umukikalile kakwe. Uweyi agapandika majikolo mingi aha kaya yakwe yiniyo, kunguno ya wiyumilija bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo agikolaga nuyo alina wiyumilija na witegeleja bhutale bho gutumama milimo yakwe chiza mpaka uyimala, kunguno ya nuweyi agiyumilijaga gutumama milimo yakwe mpaka opandika majikolo mingi aha kaya yakwe yiniyo. Hunagwene agabhalangaga gutumama milimo abhanhu bhakwe bho guyomba giki, “uwandijo bho ginhu bhuli moto, ingelelo yahoo igolechaga nguzu ja ng’wa munhu.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na wiyumilija bho gutumama milimo yabho chiza mpaka bhayima, kugiki bhadule kupandika sabho ningi umukaya yabho jinijo, umukikalile kabho.

Yohana 17:4.

2Timotheo 4:7.

Luka 9:62.

Mathayo 24:13.

Luka 14:28.

Wafilipi 1:6.

SWAHILI: MWANZO WA JAMBO NI MOTO, MWISHO WAKE NDIPO HUONEKANA NGUVU YA MTU.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya jadi za Kiafrika, ambapo moto hutumika kama ishara ya nguvu, nishati, shauku, na azimio. Moto unaweza kuanza na miali mikubwa na joto, lakini jambo muhimu ni kama unaendelea kuwaka hadi kazi ikamilike. Vivyo hivyo, mtu anaweza kuanza mradi, jukumu, uhusiano, au misheni kwa shauku kubwa, lakini kipimo halisi cha mtu huyo kinafunuliwa na jinsi anavyoumaliza. Ndiyo maana watu husema kwanba “mwanzo wa jambo ni moto, mwisho wake ndipo huonekana nguvu ya mtu.”

Methali hii inalinganishwa kwa mtu anayeanza kazi kwa shauku kubwa na ujasiri lakini lazima aoneshe uvumilivu na nguvu hadi kazi ikamilike. Mtu kama huyo hategemei tu mwanzo imara. Hubaki amejitolea wakati matatizo, tamaa, uchovu, au vikwazo vinapotokea kwa sababu ya uvumilivu na nguvu zake maishani mwake. Yeye hufanikiwa zaidi katika kazi zake kwa sababu ya kudumisha uvumilivu na nguvu zake hizo maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na mtu mwaminifu na mwenye dhamira ambaye haachi kazi nzuri katikati kwa sababu anaelewa kuwa kuanza vizuri ni muhimu, lakini kumaliza vizuri ni muhimu zaidi. Kwa mfano, mwanafunzi anaweza kuanza masomo kwa shauku kubwa, lakini azimio lake la kweli linaoneshwa kwa kukamilisha kozi. Vivyo hivyo, Mkristo anaweza kuanza safari ya imani kwa furaha, lakini uaminifu wake unafunuliwa kwa kubaki mwaminifu kwa Mungu hadi mwisho. Ndiyo maana mtu huyu huwafundisha wengine kwa kusema kwamba “mwanzo wa jambo ni moto, mwisho wake ndipo huonekana nguvu ya mtu.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: uvumilivu, kujitolea, na uwezo wa kukamilisha kile ambacho mtu amekianza. Yenyewe hufafanua kwamba shauku inaweza kuanza safari, lakini uvumilivu, nidhamu, imani, na azimio huikamilisha. Kwa hiyo mtu hapaswi kuhukumiwa tu kwa nguvu ya mwanzo wake, bali pia kwa uaminifu na hekima iliyooneshwa mwishoni. “Sio jinsi unavyoanza mbio ambayo ni muhimu zaidi; ni jinsi unavyoimaliza kwa uaminifu.”

Hiyo ni kusema, mwanzo imara huvutia umakini, lakini mwisho imara huthibitisha tabia.

Yohana 17:4 “Nimekuletea utukufu duniani kwa kukamilisha kazi uliyonipa nifanye.” Yesu hakuanza tu utume Wake; Alikamilisha kwa uaminifu kazi aliyokabidhiwa na Baba.

2 Timotheo 4:7 “Nimepigana vita vizuri, nimemaliza mbio, nimeilinda imani.” Mtakatifu Paulo anaonesha kwamba maisha ya Kikristo ni kama mbio. Kinachojalisha si kuanza mbio tu bali ni kuzimaliza kwa uaminifu.

Luka 9:62 “Hakuna mtu anayetia mkono wake kwenye jembe na kutazama nyuma anayefaa kwa ajili ya ufalme wa Mungu.” Mtu anayeanza kazi ya Mungu lazima abaki amejitolea badala ya kurudi nyuma wakati matatizo yanapotokea.

Mathayo 24:13 “Atakayesimama imara hadi mwisho ndiye atakayeokoka.” Yesu anasisitiza uvumilivu hadi mwisho.

Luka 14:28 “Tuseme mmoja wenu anataka kujenga mnara, hataketi kwanza na kuhesabu gharama?” Kabla ya kuanza jambo muhimu, mtu mwenye busara hufikiria kama ana kujitolea na nguvu ya kulikamilisha.

Wafilipi 1:6 “Yeye aliyeanza kazi njema ndani yenu ataiendeleza hadi mwisho hadi siku ya Kristo Yesu.” Hii inawapa Wakristo tumaini kwamba Mungu ni mwaminifu kukamilisha kazi njema anayoanza ndani ya watu wake.

Methali hiyo hutukumbusha kwamba maisha ya Kikristo hayahukumiwi tu kwa jinsi tunavyoanza kwa shauku, bali kwa jinsi tunavyoendelea na kumaliza kwa uaminifu. Watu wengi huanza kwa shauku, lakini changamoto huonesha ni nani aliyejitolea kweli.

Kwa hiyo, tuombe neema ya kusema pamoja na Mtakatifu Paulo: “Nimepigana vita vizuri, nimemaliza mbio, nimeilinda imani.” (2 Timotheo 4:7).

Kwa hivyo, usijivunie tu mwanzo wa moto; jitahidi kufikia mwisho mwaminifu na wenye nguvu.

ENGLISH: A THING MAY BEGIN LIKE FIRE, BUT ITS END REVEALS THE STRENGTH OF THE PERSON.

This proverb comes from traditional African wisdom, where fire is used as a symbol of strength, energy, enthusiasm, and determination. A fire may start with great flames and heat, but what matters is whether it continues burning until the work is completed. In the same way, a person may begin a project, responsibility, relationship, or mission with great enthusiasm, but the true measure of that person is revealed by how he/she finish it. That is why people say “a thing may begin like fire, but its end reveals the strength of the person.”

This proverb is compared to a person who begins a task with great enthusiasm and courage but must demonstrate perseverance and strength until the task is completed. Such a person does not depend only on a strong beginning. He remains committed when difficulties, disappointments, tiredness, or obstacles arise because of his perseverance and strength in his life. He becomes more successiful in his works because of maintaining his perseverance and strength in his life.

This person resembles a faithful and determined person who does not abandon a good work halfway because he understands that starting well is important, but finishing well is even more important. For example, a student may begin studies with great enthusiasm, but their real determination is demonstrated by completing the course. Likewise, a Christian may begin the journey of faith with joy, but their faithfulness is revealed by remaining faithful to God until the end. That is why this person teaches others by saying “a thing may begin like fire, but its end reveals the strength of the person.”

This proverb teaches people about: perseverance, endurance, commitment, and the ability to complete what one has started. It clarifies that enthusiasm may start a journey, but perseverance, patience, discipline, faith, and determination bring it to completion. A person should therefore not be judged only by the strength of his or her beginning, but also by the faithfulness and wisdom demonstrated at the end. “It is not how you start the race that matters most; it is how faithfully you finish it.”

That is say, a strong beginning attracts attention, but a strong ending proves character.

John 17:4 “I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.” Jesus did not merely begin His mission; He faithfully completed the work entrusted to Him by the Father.

2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” St. Paul shows that Christian life is like a race. What matters is not simply starting the race but finishing it faithfully.

Luke 9:62 “No one who puts a hand to the plough and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” A person who begins God’s work must remain committed rather than turning back when difficulties arise.

Matthew 24:13 “The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” Jesus emphasizes perseverance to the end.

Luke 14:28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost?” Before beginning something important, a wise person considers whether they have the commitment and strength to complete it.

Philippians 1:6 “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” This gives Christians hope that God is faithful to complete the good work He begins in His people.

The proverb reminds us that the Christian life is not judged merely by how passionately we begin, but by how faithfully we continue and finish. Many people begin with enthusiasm, but challenges reveal who is truly committed.

Therefore, let us pray for the grace to say with St. Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

1551. SUKUMA. IDETAGE HOMO ULASIMINZA.

Ulusumo lunulo lufumilile kumahoya ga kale, umo abhanhu bhasiminzaga lugendo lulihu bho gubhitila mumapolu, maswa na mumachalo. Ulugendo ulomhola losendamilaga bhuchaguji bho nzila niza na bhusiminzi bho witegeleja. Ugupela bho nduhu gwiganika gwenhaga makoye ga gujimila nulu gugwila mumachongo. Giko lulu, umunhu uyo alinikujo agasiminzaga bho gwiganika chiza na witegeleja mpaka ushiga mhola uko ajile. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “idetage hamo ulasiminza.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyawa kuli munhu uyo alina witegeleja bho gwiganika chiza haho hadinafunya ubhuyanguji, umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, haditaga mihayo yakwe bho guhadikijiwa, aliyo bho gulola amafumilo gayo, na kuchola nzila niza ya kuchagula na guyibhitila kunguno ya likujo lyakwe linilo, umukikalile kakwe kenako. Uweyi agayitongelaga bho guyilela chiza ikaya yakwe kunguno ya witegeleja bhokwe bhunubho ubho gwikanika chiza na ofunya bhuyanguji, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo wiganikaga chiza mpaga oyipandika inzila ya gunshisha mhola umulugendo lokwe, kunguno nuweyi alina witegeleja bho gwiganika chiza mpaga oyilela chiza ikaya yakwe yiniyo, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “idetage hamo ulasiminza.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na witegeleja bho guiganika chiza imilimo yabho haho bhatali uguyitumama, kugiki bhadule kupandika matwajo mingi ga kujilela chiza ikaya jabho umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Mithali 4:26.

Mithali 19:2.

Yakobo 1:5.

Luka 14:28.

Mithali 3:5–6.

SWAHILI: TAFAKARI KWA KINA YAWEZEKANA UTATEMBEA.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya maongezi ya jadi za Kiafrika, ambapo watu mara nyingi walilazimika kusafiri umbali mrefu kwenye njia nyembamba kwa miguu kupitia misitu, nyasi, na vijiji. Safari salama ilitegemea kuchagua njia sahihi na kutembea kwa uangalifu. Kukimbia bila kufikiria kunaweza kusababisha hatari, kupotea, au kuanguka kwenye mitego. Baada ya muda, njia ya kutembea ikawa ishara ya kufanya maamuzi kwa uangalifu. Kama vile msafiri anavyofika mahali salama kwa kufuata njia sahihi kwa uangalifu, mtu mwenye busara hufikia mafanikio kwa kufikiria kwa undani kabla ya kutenda. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “tafakari kwa kina yawezekana utatembea.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu anayefikiria kwa makini kila hali kabla ya kufanya uamuzi maishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo hatendi kwa msukumo bali hupima matokeo, hutafuta hekima, na huchagua njia bora ya kutenda kwa sababu ya hekima yake hiyo maishani mwake. Yeye hufikia kwenye mafanikio makubwa katika familia yake kwa sababu ya kufikiria kwa undani kabla ya kutenda jambo fulani maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na yule aliyechagua njia sahihi ya kufuata hadi akafika mahali pake salama, kwa sababu naye pia hufikiria kwa undani kabla ya kutenda jambo hadi akafikia mafanikio kwenye mafanikio makubwa maishani mwake. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “tafakari kwa kina yawezekana utatembea.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: umuhimu wa kufikiria kwa makini kabla ya kufanya maamuzi. Thamani ya hekima badala ya haraka. Uhitaji wa uvumilivu katika kutatua changamoto za maisha. Faida za kupanga kabla ya kuchukua hatua. Ukweli kwamba kufikiria kwa makini mara nyingi huleta mafanikio na kuzuia majuto.

Mithali 4:26. ”Fikiria kwa makini njia za miguu yako na uwe thabiti katika njia zako zote.”

Mithali 19:2. “Kutamani bila maarifa si vizuri—je, miguu ya haraka haitaikosa njia zaidi!”

Yakobo 1:5. “Lakini mtu yeyote kati yenu akipungukiwa na hekima, na amwombe Mungu, awapaye wote kwa ukarimu bila kupata lawama.”

Luka 14:28. “Tuseme mmoja wenu akitaka kujenga mnara, hataketi kwanza na kuhesabu gharama, aone kama ana pesa za kutosha kuukamilisha?”

Mithali 3:5–6. “Mtumaini Bwana kwa moyo wako wote, wala usizitegemee akili zako mwenyewe; katika njia zako zote mkiri Yeye, naye atayanyosha mapito yako.”

Kwa hiyo, methali hii hutukumbusha kwamba maisha ni kama safari katika njia. Wale wanaofikiria kwa undani, wanaotafuta hekima, na kuchagua kwa uangalifu hatua zao wana uwezekano mkubwa wa kufika mahali pao salama na kupata mafanikio kuliko wale wanaotenda bila kufikiria.

ENGLISH: DEEP CONSIDERATION MAY BE A WALKING PATH.

This proverb originates from traditional African oral wisdom, where people often had to travel long distances on narrow footpaths through forests, grasslands, and villages. A safe journey depended on choosing the right path and walking carefully. Rushing without thinking could lead to danger, getting lost, or falling into traps. Over time, the walking path became a symbol of thoughtful decision-making. Just as a traveler reaches the destination safely by carefully following the right path, a wise person reaches success by thinking deeply before acting. That is why he says, “Deep consideration may be a walking path.”

This proverb is compared to a person who carefully considers every situation before making a decision in life. Such a person does not act impulsively but weighs the consequences, seeks wisdom, and chooses the best course of action because of his wisdom in life. He reaches success in his family because of thinking deeply before acting in his life.

This person resembles the one who chose a right path of following up to his destination, because he also thinks deeply before acting until he reaches successes in his life. He plans before beginning a journey, consults wise advice, avoids unnecessary risks, and patiently follows the right direction until the goal is achieved. That is why he says, “Deep consideration may be a walking path.”

This proverb teaches people about: an importance of thinking carefully before making decisions. The value of wisdom over haste. The need for patience in solving life’s challenges. The benefits of planning before taking action. The fact that careful consideration often leads to success and prevents regret.

Proverbs 4:26. “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.”

Proverbs 19:2. “Desire without knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way!”

James 1:5. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without finding fault.”

Luke 14:28. “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?”

Proverbs 3:5–6. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Therefore, this proverb reminds us that life is like a journey along a path. Those who think deeply, seek wisdom, and carefully choose their steps are more likely to reach their destination safely and successfully than those who act without reflection.

1550. SUKUMA: UYO AGITAGA YAWIZA AGAMENHELAGWA

Ulusumo lunulo lufumilile kukikalile ka jiafrica, umo abhananzengo bhagadililaga bhutengeke, wizanholo, na wambilija kubhangi. Ikale abhanhu abhingi bhiganikaga giki amiito agawiza bhagagadebhaga. Umunhu uyo agambilijaga bhahabhi, bhasatu, na bhakuji guti bhananhala na bhagikulu agapandikaga ikujo na mbango kubhanhu na kuli Mulungu. Hunagwene abhanhu bhenabho bhagayomba giki, “uyo agitaga yawiza agamenhelagwa.”

Ulusumo lunulo, lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo alinawitegeleja bho gwita mihayo yawiza mpaka opandika mbango umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo, alina lisungu, bhutengeke, na wizanholo bho gubhambilija abhiye chiza kunguno ya bhutengeke bhokwe bhunubho umukikalile kakwe kenako. Uweyi agikomejaga gwita mihayo yawiza mpaka odula gubhatongela chiza abhanhu bhakwe kunguno ya bhutengeke bhokwe bhunubho umuwikaji bhokwe.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo agalima ngunda ntale uhamba mbiyu niza na olindila matwajo mpaka ugapandika umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Uweyi agapandikaga mbango ja ng’wa Mulungu ulu lyashika ilikanza lyaho. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “uyo agitaga yawiza agamenhelagwa.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhiza na bhutengeke bho gwigulambija gwita mihayo yawiza kugiki bhadule kupandika mbango ja kujilela chiza ikaya jabho jinijo, umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Wagalatia 6:9.

Wagalatia 6:7.

Mithali 11:25.

Luka 6:38.

Mathayo 25:21.

Waebrania 6:10.

SWAHILI: MTU ANAYETENDA MEMA HUPEWA TUZO.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya kitamaduni ya Kiafrika, ambapo jamii zilithamini wema, uaminifu, ukarimu, na huduma kwa wengine. Katika jamii nyingi za Kiafrika, watu waliamini kwamba matendo mema hayakosi kutambuliwa. Mtu aliyewasaidia maskini, aliyewatunza wagonjwa, aliyewaheshimu wazee, au aliyefanya kazi kwa uaminifu kwa manufaa ya jamii alipata uaminifu, heshima, na baraka. Ingawa thawabu hazikuwa za papo hapo kila wakati, watu waliamini kwamba wema hatimaye ulileta neema kutoka kwa jamii na Mungu. Kwa hiyo, methali hii hufundisha kwamba kila tendo jema huzaa matunda kwa wakati wake. Ndiyo maana watu walisema kwamba, “mtu anayetenda mema hupewa tuzo.”

Methali hii inalinganishwa na mtu ambaye hufanya matendo ya wema kila mara bila kutarajia kutambuliwa mara moja maishani mwake. Mtu kama huyo ni mwenye huruma, mwaminifu, mchapakazi, mkarimu, na amejitolea kuwasaidia wengine kwa sababu ya wema wake maishani. Anaendelea kufanya yaliyo sawa hata wakati hakuna mtu anayemtazama kwa sababu ya kuamini kwamba wema hatimaye utazawadiwa maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu anafanana na yule anayepanda mbegu nzuri katika udongo wenye rutuba, akisubiri mavuno kwa subira. Kama vile mkulima hatimaye anavyovuna kile kilichopandwa kwa uaminifu, mtu anayetenda mema hupokea heshima, uaminifu, urafiki, amani, na baraka za Mungu kwa wakati unaofaa. Ndiyo maana yeye husema kwamba, “mtu anayetenda mema hupewa tuzo.”

Methali hii inawafundisha watu kuhusu: umuhimu wa kuwatendea wengine matendo mema. Kuishi maisha ya wema, uaminifu, na ukarimu. Kuwahudumia wengine bila kutafuta thawabu za haraka. Kuamini kwamba matendo mema huzaa baraka za kudumu. Kuamini kwamba Mungu huwaheshimu wale wanaofanya mema kwa uaminifu.

Wagalatia 6:9. “Tusichoke kutenda mema, maana tutavuna kwa wakati wake tusipokata tamaa.”

Wagalatia 6:7. “Mtu huvuna anachopanda.”

Mithali 11:25. “Mtu mkarimu atafanikiwa; awaburudishaye wengine ataburudishwa.”

Luka 6:38. “Toeni, nanyi mtapewa; kipimo kizuri, kilichoshindiliwa, kilichotikiswa pamoja na kufurika, kitamiminwa mikononi mwenu.”

Mathayo 25:21. “Vema, mtumwa mwema na mwaminifu… Ingia katika furaha ya bwana wako.”

Waebrania 6:10. “Mungu si dhalimu; hatasahau kazi yako na upendo uliomwonyesha kwa kuwa umewasaidia watu wake na kuendelea kuwasaidia.”

ENGLISH: A PERSON WHO DOES GOOD IS REWARDED.

This proverb originates from traditional African wisdom, where communities valued kindness, honesty, generosity, and service to others. In many African societies, people believed that good deeds never go unnoticed. A person who helped the poor, cared for the sick, respected elders, or worked faithfully for the good of the community earned trust, honor, and blessings. Although rewards were not always immediate, people believed that goodness eventually brought favor from both the community and God. Thus, the proverb teaches that every act of goodness bears fruit in its own time. That is why people said, “a person who does good is rewarded.”

This proverb is compared to a person who consistently performs acts of kindness without expecting immediate recognition in his life. Such a person is compassionate, honest, hardworking, generous, and committed to helping others because of his kindness in life. He continues to do what is right even when no one is watching because of trusting that goodness will ultimately be rewarded in his life.

This person resembles the one who plants good seeds in fertile soil, patiently waiting for the harvest. Just as a farmer eventually reaps what has been faithfully sown, a person who practices goodness receives respect, trust, friendship, peace, and God’s blessings in due time. That is why he says, “a person who does good is rewarded.”

This proverb teaches people about: an importance of doing good deeds to others. Living a life of kindness, honesty, and generosity. Serving others without seeking immediate rewards. Trusting that good deeds produce lasting blessings. Believing that God honors those who faithfully do what is right.

Galatians 6:9. “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Galatians 6:7. “A man reaps what he sows.”

Proverbs 11:25. “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Luke 6:38. “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap.”

Matthew 25:21. “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master.”

Hebrews 6:10. “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”

1549. SUKUMA: JITABHO JANE IKUNZA LYA MBULI, IKALAMU YANE LYALA LYA MBITI.

Ulusumo lunulo lufumilile kulikujo lya mahoya ga jiafrika, nonono kubhanhhu abho bhalibhadina karatasi ja gwandikila. Aho kale abhanhu bhatumilaga mahoya, mimbo, jigano, sumo na bhumaniji bho miito. Indili ja mitugo guti mbuli jatumamilagwa gulanhana mihayo yabho iyasolobho, ukunu ilyala ilya mbiti lilitumamilwa gwandikila jikolo jabho. Hunagwene umunhu uyo alinikujo lya bhugagaja bhunubho, agayombaga giki, “jitabho jane ikunza lya mbuli, ikalamu yane lyala lya mbiti.”

Ulusumo lunulo lugalenganijiyagwa kuli munhu uyo agatumilaga ijo alinajo bho gupandika bhumani ubho bhudulile gung’wambilija chiza umuwikaji bhokwe. Umunhu ng’wunuyo agabhudililaga ubhugagaja nu bhulangwa bhokwe kulebha isabho ja mili bho gulitumila ilikujo umumilimo ya bhuli lushigu kunguno ya likujo lyakwe linilo umukikalile kakwe kenako. Uweyi agadujaga ugubhalela abhanhu bha aha kaya yakwe kunguno ya likujo lyakwe linilo ilya gubhutumila chiza ubhugagaja bhokwe bhunubho, umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho.

Umunhu ng’wunuyo, agikolaga nuyo alinikujo, bhugagaja, na bhutumami bho milimo yakwe chiza bho bhupandika bhulangwa umuwikaji bhokwe bhunubho. Hunagwene agayombaga giki, “jitabho jane ikunza lya mbuli, ikalamu yane lyala lya mbiti.”

Ulusumo lunulo lolanga bhanhu higulya ya gubhutumila ubhugagaja bhobho bho gwigulambija gutumama milimo yabho chiza, kugiki bhadule kupandika sabho ja gutumamila umuwikaji bhobho bhunubho.

Mithali 4:7.

Mhubiri 9:10.

Kutoka 31:3–5.

Mathayo 25:14–30.

2 Timotheo 3:15–17.

SWAHILI: KITABU CHANGU NI NGOZI YA MBUZI, KALAMU YANGU NI UKUCHA WA FISI.

Methali hii inatokana na hekima ya mdomo ya jadi ya Kiafrika, haswa kutoka kwa jamii ambapo vifaa rasmi vya kuandikia kama vile karatasi, vitabu, na kalamu hazikupatikana. Kabla ya kuanzishwa kwa elimu ya kisasa, watu walihifadhi maarifa kupitia usimulizi wa hadithi, nyimbo, methali, alama, na uzoefu wa vitendo. Ngozi za wanyama, haswa ngozi ya mbuzi, wakati mwingine zilitumika kurekodi au kuhifadhi taarifa muhimu, huku picha ya kucha ya fisi ikiashiria kifaa cha asili cha kuandikia. Methali hiyo inasisitiza kwamba hekima na kujifunza hazitegemei vifaa vya gharama kubwa bali ubunifu, uchunguzi, na hamu ya kuhifadhi maarifa. Ndiyo maana mtu mwenye busara husema kwamba, “kitabu changu ni ngozi ya mbuzi, kalamu yangu ni ukucha wa fisi.”

Methali hii hulinganishwa kwa mtu anayetumia rasilimali zilizopo ili kufikia mafundisho na mafanikio badala ya kulalamika kuhusu kile kinachokosekana maishani. Mtu kama huyo huthamini maarifa, ubunifu, na azimio zaidi ya mali za kimwili kwa kuzitumia kwa busara katika shughuli za kila siku kwa sababu ya hekima yake hiyo maishani. Yeye hufanikiwa kuwalea vyema wanafamilia wake kwa sababu ya hekima yake hiyo ya kutumia kwa ubunifu rasilimali zinazopatikana maishani mwake.

Mtu huyu hufanana na mtu mwenye busara, mchapakazi, mbunifu, na mwenye hamu ya kujifunza maishani mwake. Badala ya kusubiri hali nzuri, yeye hutumia vyema kile kinachopatikana na kugeuza vitu vya kawaida kuwa fursa zenye thamani kwake. Ndiyo maana husema kwamba, “kitabu changu ni ngozi ya mbuzi, kalamu yangu ni ukucha wa fisi.”

Methali hii huwafundisha watu kuhusu: Kuwa na ubunifu katika hali ngumu. Kuthamini hekima zaidi ya mali. Kutumia fursa zilizopo katika kujifunza na kukua. Kuhifadhi maarifa kwa ajili ya vizazi vijavyo. Uvumilivu na azimio licha ya rasilimali chache. Kuelewa kwamba elimu ya kweli huanza kwa nia ya kupenda, si kwa vifaa vya gharama kubwa maishani mwao.

Mithali 4:7. “Hekima ndiyo jambo kuu; basi jipatie hekima; na kwa mapato yako yote jipatie ufahamu.”

Mhubiri 9:10. “Lolote mkono wako utakalolipata kufanya, lifanye kwa nguvu zako zote.”

Kutoka 31:3–5. Mungu alimjaza Bezaleli hekima, ufahamu, na ujuzi wa kutumia vifaa vinavyopatikana kwa kazi Yake.

Mathayo 25:14–30. Mfano wa Talanta unafundisha kwamba Mungu anatarajia watu kutumia kwa uaminifu rasilimali zozote walizonazo.

2 Timotheo 3:15–17. Maandiko yametolewa ili kuwafanya watu wawe na hekima na vifaa vya kutosha kwa kila kazi njema.

Kwahiyo, hekima ya kweli haitegemei ubora wa vifaa vya mtu bali nia ya kujifunza, kuunda, na kuhifadhi maarifa kwa kutumia rasilimali zozote ambazo Mungu ametoa.

ENGLISH: MY BOOK IS GOAT SKIN, MY PEN IS A HYENA’S CLAW.

This proverb originates from traditional African oral wisdom, particularly from communities where formal writing materials such as paper, books, and pens were unavailable. Before the introduction of modern education, people preserved knowledge through storytelling, songs, proverbs, symbols, and practical experiences. Animal skins, especially goat skin, were sometimes used for recording or preserving important information, while the image of a hyena’s claw symbolizes a natural writing instrument. The proverb emphasizes that wisdom and learning do not depend on expensive materials but on creativity, observation, and the desire to preserve knowledge. That is why a wise person says, “my book is goat skin, my pen is a hyena’s claw.”

This proverb is compared to a person who uses the resources available to achieve learning and success instead of complaining about what is lacking in life. Such a person values knowledge, creativity, and determination more than material possessions by using them wisely in daily activities because of his wisdom in life. He manages to nurture nicely his family members because of his wisdom of using creatively the resources available in life.

This person resembles someone who is resourceful, hardworking, innovative, and eager to learn in life. Rather than waiting for perfect conditions, he or she makes the best use of what is available and turns ordinary things into valuable opportunities. That is why he says, “my book is goat skin, my pen is a hyena’s claw.”

This proverb teaches people about: Being creative and resourceful in difficult circumstances. Valuing wisdom more than material possessions. Using available opportunities to learn and grow. Preserving knowledge for future generations. Perseverance and determination despite limited resources. Understanding that true education begins with a willing mind, not with expensive tools.

Proverbs 4:7. “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

Ecclesiastes 9:10. “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.”

Exodus 31:3–5. God filled Bezalel with wisdom, understanding, and skill to use available materials for His work.

Matthew 25:14–30. The Parable of the Talents teaches that God expects people to use faithfully whatever resources they have.

2Timothy 3:15–17. The Scriptures are given to make people wise and equipped for every good work.

Therefore, true wisdom is not determined by the quality of one’s tools but by the willingness to learn, create, and preserve knowledge using whatever resources God has provided.