Òwe

Timeless Wisdom from the Yoruba Tradition

Across generations, Yoruba elders have carried wisdom in the form of proverbs-short sayings with deep meaning, spoken at the right moment to teach, guide, or comfort. These proverbs, or òwe, carry the voices of the ancestors, offering insight into life, character, family, destiny, and the divine.

In this book, you'll discover one hundred carefully selected Yoruba proverbs, each presented with:The original Yoruba text with correct pronunciation and tone marksA literal translation for clarityCultural and spiritual context explaining its traditional meaningA poetic reflection inviting you to apply its wisdom in everyday lifeWritten for both newcomers and those familiar with Yoruba culture, this collection offers meditations on kindness, humility, hope, and the beauty of human connection. Whether you read one proverb a day or explore them all at once, these pages offer a bridge between ancient voices and modern hearts.

Let the words of the ancestors guide you toward a life of wisdom, balance, and peace.