PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ajá tó rí mótò tó dúró fi ara-a rè bọ Ògún.”
(Translation: A dog that sees a motor vehicle and stands in its way makes itself a sacrifice to Ògún.)

Context:

• In Yoruba culture, Ògún is the deity of iron and the patron deity for hunters (because of all the metallic intruments they use); one of Ògún's favourite sacrifices is dogs.

• The proverb warns against ignoring obvious dangers. A dog that recklessly stands before a moving car is doomed to destruction, becoming an “unnecessary sacrifice.”

• The heart of the proverb is about taking unnecessary risks.

• The lesson: heed warnings, practise foresight, and avoid self-inflicted harm.

Biblical Connections & Applications:

• Proverbs 22:3 – “A prudent man foresees danger and hides himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.”

• Proverbs 28:1 – “The wicked flee when no man pursues: but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” (Yet boldness without prudence is foolishness.)

• Acts 1:4 – Jesus told the disciples to “wait for the promise of the Father”—a reminder to pause and heed spiritual guidance.

• Proverbs 6:6–8 – The wisdom of ants gathering food in summer teaches preparation and foresight.

• Lamentations 3:27 – It is good to bear responsibility early, preparing for future challenges.

Practical Takeaways:

• Ignorance or overconfidence can make us blind to danger. Avoid the “confidence that only ignorance can supply.”

• Do not ignore red flags in relationships, careers, or spiritual life; danger ignored today can destroy tomorrow.

• Don’t toy with sin or assume grace will shield you from its consequences.

• Learn from the wisdom of older generations rather than dismissing their experiences.

• Be proactive in practical matters (e.g., renewing visas, planning ahead) instead of leaving things until it is too late.

• Take time to pause, listen, and follow the checks of the Spirit before making big decisions.

Episode Title: A Proverb on Taking Advantage of Others

Proverb (Yorùbá): “Bí yó ṣe èmi, bí yó ṣe ìwọ, kì í jẹ́ ká ṣu sóko a-láì-rójú. ”
Translation: It-might-happen-to-me, it-might-happen-to-you stops one from defecating on the farm of the person who has no time to tend it.
Meaning: One should not take advantage of the weak, for no one knows what the future might hold.

Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about the act of defaecation (poo or faeces) in the context of an African proverb.

Cultural background:

• In traditional Yoruba communities, without modern toilets, people would go into bushes to relieve themselves. Farmers might prefer to use untended or bushy farms for privacy and to keep their own farms clean.
• The proverb recognises the temptation to take advantage of a neighbour’s untended farm. At first, it may appear to target laziness, but it also highlights the reality of áìrójú (lack of time), which in Yoruba culture is something people pray against—asking God for enough time and space to live well.
• At its heart, the proverb teaches empathy and thoughtfulness:

• Biblical Connections & Applications:

  • Proverbs 26:27 – “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.” Actions have consequences.

  • Matthew 7:12 – The Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

  • Ecclesiastes 11:1 – “Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.” What you sow, you will eventually reap.

    Proverbs 26:15–19 – Warnings against laziness, meddling, and trickery toward neighbours.

• LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:

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  Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.

Omoluabi Podcast | Season 7 Episode 2

A Proverb on Hope and Patience

Proverb:Ó pẹ́ títí aboyún, oṣù mẹ́sàn-án. (Translation: "The longest respite for the pregnant woman is nine months.")

Key Takeaway:This episode delves into an African proverb about pregnancy, using it as a lens to explore biblical themes ofhope, patience, andperseverance during challenging times. The proverb emphasises thatwaiting periods, like pregnancy, have definite endpoints,bringing into perspective the popular saying,"This Too Shall Pass."

Although pregnancy might seem like a pause from regular life, it brings its own unique challenges while leading to a transformative new beginning. Through this metaphor, we draw powerful parallels between pregnancy and other life challenges, demonstrating thatevery difficult season eventually concludes, ushering in either relief or new obstacles to overcome. By weaving together these themes with biblical teachings on faith and endurance, the episode encourages listeners to maintain hope during trials, trust in God's guidance, and stay focused on positive outcomes even when facing significant hardships.

Scriptural References:

• Romans 5:5 – Hope that does not disappoint
• Psalm 79:9 – Asking for God's help
• 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – Temporary struggles vs. Eternal glory
• James 1:2-4 – Joy in trials and developing patience