Kutya kukotama; gunguo rakatya, mapapata aro mashoma.

Definitions

mapapata: remains – scattered bones, generally of an animal.

Literal translation

To fear is to bend low; the crow once feared, and only a few of its bones are scattered.

Inspiration

The crow, like the hyena, survives by feeding on the dead rather than confronting the living. Its caution is wisdom, not weakness.

Application

Fear is not always weakness. Sometimes it is wisdom. Knowing when to yield, retreat, or avoid danger can be the difference between survival and destruction. Prudence, even when mistaken for cowardice, often spares us from unnecessary harm.

Similar Proverb

  1. Bere zvarakatya, mapapata aro mangani?
  2. Gwara harina mbonje.
  3. Kutya hakuna gobvu.
  4. Mbwende haina vanga.