Ubuhle bendoda izinkomo zayo.
“A man's beauty is his cattle.”
In traditional Zulu society a person's true worth and standing were measured by their cattle, not their looks.
— Traditional South Africa Wisdom, South Africa
Source: Traditional Zulu proverb (South Africa), public-domain oral tradition
More Proverbs from South Africa
A person is a person through other people.
Humanity and identity are shaped through relationships and community — the Ubuntu philosophy.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →
One fly does not provide for another.
Each person must work for their own living; nobody can be idle and expect others to provide.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →
The nice fig is often full of worms.
Attractive appearances can conceal hidden flaws or trouble.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →
The bull is among the calves.
Today's great leaders were once ordinary, inexperienced beginners.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →
The way forward is asked from those who went ahead.
Seek guidance and advice from those with more experience.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →
There is no hillside without a grave.
Death touches every place and everyone; it is universal and inevitable.
Traditional South Africa Wisdom
Read more →