ITAMA EBIRA · WORDS OF THE ELDERS
Ancestral Proverbs & Wisdom
In Ebira culture, a proverb is the palm oil with which words are eaten. Explore philosophical teachings, moral parables, and timeless community maxims.
All Themes
Wisdom & Philosophy
Kinship & Respect (Ubayin)
Patience & Strategy
Courage & Valor
Leadership & Legacy
Hard Work & Craft
Courage
“Okawunaro yinavi dahina aayipozi aani”
Literal translation: The horned viper is in the jungle and the field rat still bears children
Philosophical Meaning:
Even while the deadly viper stalks the forest, the bush rat continues to birth and nurse her young
Spoken to rebuke saboteurs and inspire courage; life, enterprise, and progress must boldly continue even in the presence of adversaries
Courage
“Aniku ka vana, ebi reyi ireba”
Literal translation: When the anvil is forged well, the blacksmith does not fear the iron.
Philosophical Meaning:
Rigorous preparation, grounded ancestral knowledge, and moral fortitude enable a person to triumph over the most turbulent life crises.
Courage
“Ikarikade kaasika ononeevaa gwepe, dooni sehio”
Literal translation: The dove said rather than fail to enrich the soup, it would rather break in pieces to make it delicious
Philosophical Meaning:
The turtle dove said: 'Rather than fail to enrich the hunter's soup with meat, I would rather crumble into pieces to give the broth rich flavor'
Used to express unwavering dedication and willingness to exhaust all personal effort to ensure the success of an enterprise