SOME T’KURMI PROVERBS, THEIR MEANINGS AND FUNCTIONS WITHIN THE COMMUNITY – by Jonathan Samson Umaya

1.        “Duk wansa u’ b’ten ‘nsa mau niyi, utu rwafe t’kuwe”.

Meaning: He, who refuses to heed the truth of wisdom, will suffer the ignorance of foolishness.

Function: the function of this proverb is for instructing, correcting and restoring order by the kinsmen, elders and noble personalities of the community for the purpose of moral upbringing of every member of the  community.

2.        “B’toro b’yen sa Ashini uyemo ‘u rumi, kode uzi kode u’ chpengo, su rumiki”.

Meaning: No matter how stressful the pressure of life might be, it can never thwart destiny.

Function: This proverb is mostly used in consulting someone who narrowly escaped tragedy or a dangerous situation. It is also used in encouraging those who overcame a seemingly impossible situation.

3.        “Ukwanke haru na uku re upura ba”

Meaning: Giving respect to who deserve it is not a crime.

Function: This proverb is functional in addressing disrespectful people so as to teach or instruct them on the importance of the blessings of respect which would cause them no harm.

4.       Proverbs: “ Tare t’ne a t’na k’ti pchizi tare t’gure”

Meaning: mutual respect and unity leads to social, moral and peaceful coexistence.

Function: The function of this proverb is to resolve a conflict that is between two parties, individuals, groups or clans.

5.        “ Awasu kuna utu twane b’gau ata kande ko upiti u b’kura bo”

Meaning: Nothing can be done to someone who is determined to take a risk rather than to support or assist in any way possible.

Function: The proverb is functional in alerting a determined risk taker on the dangers of the risk ahead, most especially people who do not listen to advice.

6.        “Uture ud’upna nu jugi (juge)”

Meaning: This is when opportunity meets with preparation (some say good luck).

 Function: This proverb is functional in terms where a double blessing is gained by someone’s expectations.

7.        “ Buru naseh unu dir-sau ba/uku nyana nuchiyeh”

Meaning: hard work and persistence leads to great achievements.

Function: It is mostly used in addressing the needs of moral norms amongst the members of the community so as to enhance peace and unity through persistence and hard work for the purpose of growth and social development.

8.        “ Ni sheno nu wata, a wata aka nen”

Meaning: Whatever is done indoors should remain indoors.

Function: it is basically used in cautioning those who do not keep secrets.