Proverbs are words of wisdom that are used to warn and educate people.
Before the arrival of a white man into the country, the Kalenjin community which inhabits most parts of the Rift Valley region mainly used proverbs to pass information from one generation to another.
Although proverbs are no longer used like before, here are the proverbs which are still commonly used by the Kalenjin.
Makisarunen kororya mat
It translates to 'a feather cannot be saved when it is on fire'.
This proverbs means that it is always good to change a behaviour or person' way off before it is too late. This proverb is used to warn those who have bad behaviours and are not willing to change.
Chepkisas kotatun kwchome
It simply translates to 'he who is hated at one point can later be everyone's favourite'.
At times, someone may look weak, poor or disabled and most people do not want to be associated with him or her. However, if this person works hard, he will be successful and everyone will praise him and admire his success.
Cham chito ap kokwet korok simondoi sang
It translates to 'love your neighbour before extending your love to other people'.
It simply means charity begins at home. At times, other people may pretend to be good to other people from other places yet they can't show the same goodness to those who are close to them.
Ame chitugul kuitab kuyandenyin (everyone eats his /her own sweats)
Everyone enjoys the fruits of his sweat and toil and this proverb is used to warn those who do not work hard in their lives and only want to survive on what others provide for them.
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