EXAMINING THE INDIGENIOUS WISDOM IN EKEGUSII PROVERBS

Abstract

This paper examines the cultural values and wisdom that are
transmitted through Ekegusii proverbs. It demonstrates how proverbs
are used to comment on a variety of human experiences and to
maintain societal order. Some of the cultural issues that the paper
examines include gender construction, paradoxical experiences, as well
as the perception of death. The paper further shows that even in
instances where the proverbs appear contradictory, there are
sociological reasons to explain and unravel the apparent incongruity. In
addition, the paper reveals the existence of synonymous proverbs which
are a result of cultural contact, arising mainly from the translation (into
Ekegusii) of English and Kiswahili expressions.