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Adebowale Aminat.

Proverbs are a central feature of Yoruba oral tradition, serving as vessels of wisdom, moral instruction, and cultural values. Known as òwe in Yoruba, proverbs are often used to embellish speech, convey deeper meanings, and resolve conflicts. A Yoruba adage states, Òwe lẹṣin ọ̀rọ̀; bí ọ̀rọ̀ bá sọnù, òwe ni a fí ń wa á, which translates to “A proverb is the horse of conversation; when words are lost, it is through proverbs that we seek them.” This highlights the indispensable role proverbs play in communication within the Yoruba-speaking world. The structure of Yoruba proverbs are marked by tonal richness, poetic rhythm, and brevity. They are often metaphorical, relying on imagery to drive home their messages. For example, the proverb A kì í fi òrìṣà bẹ ènìyàn, meaning “One does not use a deity to beg a human,” reflects the Yoruba respect for hierarchy and the sanctity of divine matters.

Additionally, many Yoruba proverbs employ parallelism, a stylistic feature where one part of the sentence echoes or complements the other. An example is Ìjà ń bẹ láàyè, ọ̀tọ̀ ni ò gbà, meaning “Conflict exists in life, but truth does not partake in it.” This structure not only enhances the beauty of the language but also aids memorization. Yoruba Proverbs have proved to function in multiple ways which includes teaching morality, conflict resolution, preservation of tradition, amongst others. Yoruba proverbs are didactic, often used to teach ethical conduct. For instance, Òpò lọ́mọ ìyá mímú ṣùgbọ́n ọ̀kan lóògùn ọmọ ìyá (“There are many children of the same mother, but unity is the bond of siblings”) emphasizes the importance of family unity and solidarity. Also, In traditional Yoruba settings, elders often employ proverbs during disputes to encourage reconciliation. A common example is Bí ìlú bá ń jẹ kìnnìún, òtítọ́ kì í ṣèé gbé ṣáájú, meaning “If a community is ruled by the lion, truth is still the ultimate standard.” This reminds disputing parties of the necessity of fairness and truth.

Furthermore, Proverbs are a repository of Yoruba cultural values and historical experiences. The saying Ẹni tí kò mọ̀’jú ìyàwó ẹ́ ní í fọ́kọ sínú èérí, meaning “He who doesn’t understand the value of his wife will store a hoe in a dewy place,” illustrates the importance of recognizing and respecting relationships. For cultural contexts, Yoruba proverbs are deeply rooted in the communal worldview. They often reflect the value placed on àjọṣe (cooperation) and àṣà (tradition). For example: Community and Interdependence: Àgbájọ ọwọ́ ni a fí ń sọyà (“It is by joining hands that we make the soup thick”) emphasizes collective effort. Destiny and Fate: Ayé kì í ṣe bí ẹni bá fẹ́ kó rí, bí a ṣe bí a ṣe rí ni ayé ń rí, meaning “Life does not turn out as one desires; it unfolds as it is destined.”

Despite the undisputed antiquity and enduring wisdom of Yoruba proverbs, their relevance in contemporary times faces significant challenges. Urbanization and globalization have reshaped communication patterns, leading to a gradual decline in the use of proverbs, particularly among younger generations who often favor Western modes of expression. The migration from rural communities to urban centers, where traditional practices are less emphasized, has further weakened their transmission. Additionally, the dominance of English in education and popular culture has created a generational gap, where many youths are unable to grasp the metaphorical depth of these proverbs or even the language in which they are embedded. This trend risks eroding an essential part of Yoruba heritage that has historically served as a moral compass and a medium of cultural continuity.

However, Yoruba proverbs remain resilient and relevant in modern contexts through adaptations in media, music, and literature. In the Nigerian music industry, Fuji musicians like Saheed Osupa infuse their lyrics with proverbs to convey deeper meanings, ensuring their appeal across age groups. Similarly, in literature, celebrated authors such as Wole Soyinka employ Yoruba proverbs in their works to enrich storytelling and provide cultural authenticity. These adaptations not only preserve the proverbs but also introduce them to a broader audience. Moreover, digital platforms such as social media have become valuable tools for reviving interest in proverbs, with individuals and organizations sharing and interpreting them online. Through these modern avenues, Yoruba proverbs continue to inspire, educate, and connect generations, affirming their timeless relevance in an evolving world.

Educators and cultural enthusiasts advocate for teaching proverbs in schools to preserve them as an essential part of Yoruba heritage. Digital platforms have also contributed to their revitalization, with blogs and social media pages dedicated to sharing and interpreting proverbs. An Instance of this is the posts of a social media enthusiast, Tosin Morakinyo,who has taken to the street of Tiktok to present and explain proverbs found in the culture and language of Ondo people. Overall, Yoruba proverbs are not just linguistic expressions but cultural treasures that encapsulate the wisdom, values, and beliefs of the Yoruba people. As globalization threatens their prominence, deliberate efforts must be made to preserve these gems of oral tradition. By integrating proverbs into education and modern media, the Yoruba people can ensure their survival for future generations.