CULTURE

The African Culture

The African Culture as it were in the past is said to be responsible for the values that spread across individual societies. Culture, sometimes referred to as tradition is the structural framework and anchor that drive a society to ensure stability of social life. 

Southwest Nigeria is the abode of culturally valued people who have lived for centuries with blossom culture and tradition; the Yoruba people of Nigeria. The Yoruba people are culturally rich and tradition-dependent when it comes to customary judgments and appeal.

 The content of the African culture, especially the Yoruba is expressed in their proverbs and adages. Interestingly, the Yoruba adages don't usually have the direct meaning as they sound. There is usually a deeper thought and reason behind a particular adage and sometimes its application is diverse.

Here is a Yoruba adage with its interpretation:

"As much as the hand of a kid cannot reach the roof top, so also the hand of an adult cannot pick the nut in a small hole."

Meaning: it implies that everyone in life has his/her shortcomings. No matter how great you are, there are certain things you cannot do without the help of a seemingly lesser person. 

This adage is usually said to caution people, especially those that feel they are at the top of the world to apprise them that being in power doesn't mean they can get everything done all alone. Therefore, they are usually advised to keep low and act with people compassionately because one day, they will need their help.