🌍 3 Swahili Proverbs that align with Barakah Culture

Assalamu'alaikum,

This summer, I find myself back in my birth city of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania, reconnecting with extended family and rediscovering my East African roots. The rich tapestry of Swahili culture, deeply influenced by Islam, has always captivated me.

For those unfamiliar with Swahili culture, it is a rich, vibrant culture rooted in the East African coastal regions, blending African, Arab, and Islamic influences. Swahili, the primary language of this culture, is renowned for its lyrical beauty and deep cultural significance.

One of my favorite pastimes here is listening to local proverbs that impart timeless life truths, passed down through generations. Today, I want to share three Swahili proverbs that beautifully align with what we call Barakah Culture.

1. "Haraka haraka haina baraka" - Haste has no blessing.

In Tanzania, and particularly in Zanzibar, life moves at a leisurely pace. Swahili culture emphasizes family and social relationships over the hustle of “time is money.” Hence, haste is often frowned upon, encapsulated in the proverb above.

This saying reminds me of my 2011 climb up Mt. Kilimanjaro. The guides would often say “pole pole,” meaning “slowly, slowly.” They knew that rushing up the mountain could lead to altitude sickness, preventing us from reaching the summit. It was a powerful life lesson that achieving great things often requires a patient, deliberate approach.

2. "Bidii haiondoi amri ya Mungu" - Effort does not remove God's directive.

This saying aligns perfectly with our Productive Muslim philosophy of setting goals like a Gardener. It's a beautiful reminder that while we must strive for our goals with sincerity and hard work, the fruits of our labor are ultimately in Allah's hands. 

Someone might read this proverb and think "Well, what's the point of putting effort?". That’s a misunderstanding of the proverb. The proverb is a reminder that you should put effort but detach your heart from the results - because ultimately Allah Decides what the outcome of our effort will be (This is an encouragement to constantly make dua for your goals whilst you put effort).

3. "Mwenye radhi hasumbuki" - He who is blessed with contentment is not disturbed.

Here lies the essence of Barakah Culture - contentment (Ridha). If you want true peace in your life - you need to practice Ridha. 

The proverb challenges us to cultivate a heart that finds serenity even when things don’t go our way.

I hope these proverbs inspire you as much as they inspired me. Now, it’s your turn: what proverbs from your culture or language align with Barakah Culture? I’d love to hear from you!

Asante Sana (Thank you very much!)

P.S. - If you’re in East Africa, join me for my book launch in Tanzania happening this Sunday, 28th Muharram 1446 (4th August 2024) InshaAllah.