A kìí f’Ọ́ká l’ọ́kà: Yoruba Wordplay, Tone, and the Wisdom of Mismatch

Last updated: January 19, 2026

Yoruba Wisdom

A kìí f’ọ́ká l’ọ́kà. Oká kìí j’ọkà; ohun tó j’ọkà l’ọ́ká ńjẹ.

Literal Translation

We do not offer ọká (cobra) ọkà (the Yoruba staple).
The cobra does not eat ọkà.
What the cobra eats is either what resembles ọkà or what eats ọkà.

(Depending on emphasis: resemblance or consumption.)

Interpretation

This saying is a masterclass in Yoruba linguistic economy and tonal intelligence. Built entirely on clipped forms and tonal shifts, it demonstrates how meaning in Yoruba is carried not just by letters, but by pitch, context, and cultural intuition.

At its surface, the saying draws a playful contrast between:

• ọká — the cobra, a dangerous predator, and
• ọ̀kà — a humble, nourishing staple.

But beneath the wordplay lies a deeper observation: things are not sustained by what is named after them, but by what truly fits their nature.

The cobra is uninterested in grain; it is drawn to movement, flesh, resemblance, or prey. In other words, appetite follows nature, not labels.

Application

Culturally, the saying is often used to:

• Mock misplaced offerings or ill-matched solutions
• Highlight naïveté in dealing with danger, power, or predatory forces
• Underscore the futility of offering symbolic substitutes where real substance, or caution, is required

In social and political conversation, it subtly warns that those who thrive on exploitation will not be satisfied with harmless gestures. In interpersonal terms, it reminds us that not every actor in a situation wants what appears benign or generous.

Above all, it cautions against confusing appearance, naming, or intention with actual compatibility.

Broad Theme

Language, Nature, and Mismatch

Supporting Themes

• Yoruba linguistic play and tonal philosophy
• The limits of symbolism
• Appetite versus appearance
• Cultural intelligence and discernment
• The danger of naïve generosity

Closing Reflection

This saying does not shout a moral; it smiles while revealing it. Its brilliance lies in how the Yoruba language turns tone into thought and clipping into clarity. Here, wisdom is not preached — it is performed.