Ghanaian proverbs are vital in the lifestyle of a typical Ghanaian. They are associated with elders who are deemed to be wise with age and not expected to speak in plain terms. Interpreting proverbs is often complex, but best done in a context. The ability to use language enriched by proverbs is considered sage and is the hallmark of great public speaking. In the spirit of Heritage Month, GBC’s Shirley Barwuah delves into the use of Proverbs, an integral part of African culture, passed on from generation to generation for centuries.
A proverb is a simple, concrete, traditional saying that expresses a perceived truth based on common sense or experience. Proverbs are often metaphorical and use formulaic language. Collectively, they form a genre of folklore. Some proverbs exist in more than one language because people borrow them from languages and cultures similar to theirs. And the reason is partly because of the fact that it serves to season their culture’s language so they end up appearing or sounding more beautiful. With the use of stories, symbols, and others, Akan proverbs are used to teach or impart knowledge, ethics, wisdom and even morals. The Senior Linguist to the Omanhene of Bompata Traditional Area, Okyeame Asumadu is of the view that if you see anyone who is so vast in Akan traditional proverbs, you will discover they are able to use proverbs in the Akan language without stress.
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However, almost every culture has its own unique proverbs. Proverbs are used in conversations by adults more than children, partially because adults have learned more proverbs than children. Also, using proverbs properly is a skill that is developed over years. Proverbs, because they are indirect, allow a speaker to disagree or give advice in a way that may be less offensive. Studying actual proverb use in conversation, however, is difficult since the researcher must wait for proverbs to happen. Many proverbs from around the world address matters of ethics and expected behavior. Therefore, it is not surprising that proverbs are often important texts in religions. The most obvious example is the Book of Proverbs in the Bible. Proverbs were very much part of everyday speech. But its use is on the decline due to many factors.
The great Nigerian author Chinua Achebe once wrote: “Proverbs are the palm oil with which words are eaten.” So how can we revive this genre of folklore?
Generally, a proverb is an older saying without a known author that’s considered wise. So far, I hope you fall in love with these enriching Ghanaian proverbs that address virtually all facets of life.
