Ilu bụ ịnyịnya nke asụsụ Igbo, ya mere ọbụrụ na eziokwu na-efu efu, anyi ga-eji ilu Igbo chọta ya

Proverbs are the horses of the Igbo language, so if the truth goes missing, we use Igbo Proverbs to find it.

Wit meets poets, and wordsmiths contend with contemporary sages in this collection of classic maxim capers. Can Dandy Ahuruonye save the day?

In this sphere known as Igbo philosophy, every maxim act as a raw material for the general preferment of metaphysical reflection. It becomes obvious therefore that these ancient Proverbs play a critical role serving as perpetual escorts to the African viewpoint, in her desperate search for contextual truth. Such truths, and the fascinating conundrum that comes with them, can only be unlocked through the use of traditional proverbs. This captivating assemblage represents the first major exhibition of historical Proverbs of traditional Igbo origin; alongside Proverbs from around the world. The Igbo regard Proverbs as a cherished patrimony bequeathed them by wise ancestors who sought to use concise verities to teach their progeny.

I compiled this encyclopaedia of Proverbs by using validations gleaned from oral tradition, archived records, other authentic sources, and utterances from various reputable elders, who also double as custodians of their heritage. My own knowledge of local and regional Proverbs helped to provide this rare insight into the roots of the diverse pearls of wisdom that have served Igbo speakers for aeons. Ultimately, my aim is to use these maxims to contribute to the general debate on the genesis, efficacy, and relevance of contemporary Igbo and other Proverbs, including their handouts, not just to the West African sub-region, but to all mankind.

This encyclopaedia reviews the history of proverbs in general–From ancient Egypt, to medieval Israel; and from NOK, to the Benin Kingdom. The book also showcases hundreds of proverbs from other world cultures. What makes this reference book unique is that it presents a section containing hundreds of maxims with parallel applications; while also allowing the reader to make his or her own rendering of the meaning of proverbs in other sections.

The guidebook contains over 400 original images from certified and authentic sources.

The motivation to publish a book showcasing ancient African Proverbs side by side with equivalent English renderings is because many of these Proverbs require an explanation so as to appeal to Western and general readers. Also, many Igbo speakers do not know the meanings or context of their own ancestral maxims. Enjoy!