Sukuma

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.

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.

1528. SUKUMA: NZILAMAKA IGANJIMIJAGA UNSIMINZI.

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

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

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

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

Mithali 3:5–6.

Mathayo 7:13–14.

Yakobo 1:5.

1Wakorintho 14:33.

SWAHILI: NJIA PANDA HUMCHANGANYA MSAFIRI.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENGLISH: “INTERSECTION OF ROADS CONFUSES THE TRAVELER.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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