Àgbà tó jẹ ajẹ ìwẹ̀hìn, orí ararẹ̀ ni yi ó ò fi ru igbá délé
Translation: The elder who eats without thinking of the young ones will carry home his empty food tray
As the custodians of our traditional and cultural practices, elders have a significant role in educating our children and setting a positive example. It is a societal norm and a taboo for an adult to eat a meal without sharing it with the children. This traditional proverb is a stark reminder to elders who neglect this practice, warning them that such behavior can lead to a society devoid of harmony and well-being. Please remember the following text:
This painting depicts an elder walking with a container on his head, while the children, who would traditionally help him carry it, turn their backs on him due to his failure to share his meal with them."This proverb, "Àgbà tó jẹ ajẹ ìwẹ̀hìn" is used to warn an elder that eating a meal by oneself and not sharing with others will not make society thrive.