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These Zulu (isiZulu) proverbs speak to ubuntu, cooperation and the bonds that tie people to one another. Here are 4 of them, each with its literal translation and a clear explanation of its meaning, drawn from documented Zulu usage.
Isandla siyageza esinye
Literally: “One hand washes the other”
Meaning: People depend on one another; mutual help and cooperation benefit everyone.
Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu
Literally: “A person is a person through (other) people”
Meaning: Our humanity is realised through relationships with others; we become fully human only in community (ubuntu).
Izandla ziyagezana
Literally: “The hands wash each other”
Meaning: Help should be reciprocal; do a good turn for those who do good turns for you.
Injobo enhle ithungelwa ebandla
Literally: “A fine loin-skin is sewn in the company of men”
Meaning: Important matters are settled openly with the community/council, not in secret; good counsel is found in the gathering.