CONFIDENTAL
Page 1 of 15 AFL2602
May/June 2023
QUESTION 1
Proverbs were used by African traditional societies to preserve and impart to future generations
valuable moral lessons. List five proverbs from your indigenous language, and demonstrate
their social role and significance. In other words, each of the proverbs that you have listed,
please explain its importance in society. You are also welcome to use practical example from
literary texts such as novels, short stories and so forth.
Here are five proverbs from the Zulu language along with their social significance and
practical examples:
1. "Isikhathi siyakudla." (Time is a feast.)
Significance: This proverb emphasizes the importance of utilizing time wisely
and making the most of opportunities. It encourages individuals to be
proactive and productive.
Example: In a Zulu novel, a young protagonist named Sipho dreams of
becoming a successful entrepreneur. His grandfather advises him with this
proverb, reminding him that he must work hard and seize opportunities when
they arise if he wants to achieve his goals.
2. "Inyoni yomhlaba ingazalwa ngesikhathi eside." (The bird of the earth is not
born during a time of famine.)
Significance: This proverb highlights the need for patience and perseverance
during challenging times. It teaches individuals to endure difficulties and have
faith that better days will come.
Example: In a Zulu short story, a struggling farmer named Jabulani faces a
severe drought that threatens his crops. His neighbor consoles him by sharing
this proverb, reminding him to remain hopeful and continue working diligently,
as eventually, the rains will come.
Page 1 of 15 AFL2602
May/June 2023
QUESTION 1
Proverbs were used by African traditional societies to preserve and impart to future generations
valuable moral lessons. List five proverbs from your indigenous language, and demonstrate
their social role and significance. In other words, each of the proverbs that you have listed,
please explain its importance in society. You are also welcome to use practical example from
literary texts such as novels, short stories and so forth.
Here are five proverbs from the Zulu language along with their social significance and
practical examples:
1. "Isikhathi siyakudla." (Time is a feast.)
Significance: This proverb emphasizes the importance of utilizing time wisely
and making the most of opportunities. It encourages individuals to be
proactive and productive.
Example: In a Zulu novel, a young protagonist named Sipho dreams of
becoming a successful entrepreneur. His grandfather advises him with this
proverb, reminding him that he must work hard and seize opportunities when
they arise if he wants to achieve his goals.
2. "Inyoni yomhlaba ingazalwa ngesikhathi eside." (The bird of the earth is not
born during a time of famine.)
Significance: This proverb highlights the need for patience and perseverance
during challenging times. It teaches individuals to endure difficulties and have
faith that better days will come.
Example: In a Zulu short story, a struggling farmer named Jabulani faces a
severe drought that threatens his crops. His neighbor consoles him by sharing
this proverb, reminding him to remain hopeful and continue working diligently,
as eventually, the rains will come.
