Ukubona kanye, ukubona kabili.
“To see it once is to see it twice.”
Painful experience teaches caution so the same mistake is not repeated — once beaten, twice shy.
— 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 →