Yoruba Wisdom
Ẹni ayé nyẹ kí ó máyọ̀ láyọ̀jù nítorípé ayé fẹ̀lẹ̀
Literal Translation
The person whom life is favouring should not rejoice excessively, because life is fragile.
Expanded Rendering
One who is currently enjoying the fortunes of life should not lose themselves in unrestrained celebration, for life is delicate, unstable, and capable of sudden change.
Interpretation
This saying is a quiet restraint placed on success, fortune, and favourable seasons. It does not deny joy, nor does it discourage gratitude. Instead, it cautions against excess, arrogance, and emotional intoxication during good times.
The Yoruba worldview recognises that prosperity can intoxicate the mind just as hardship can harden the heart. When fortune smiles, the wise do not dance as though permanence has been guaranteed.
Joy is allowed. Boasting is not.
The saying reminds us that today’s elevation does not annul tomorrow’s uncertainty.
Context & Cultural Meaning
In Yoruba moral philosophy, ayé (life) is not a stable platform; it is a moving surface. To stand on it without balance is to invite a fall.
This wisdom is often spoken to:
- the newly successful,
- the publicly celebrated,
- the suddenly wealthy,
- or anyone whose season has turned favourable.
The culture teaches that excessive celebration attracts envy, spiritual imbalance, and moral blindness. More importantly, it dulls preparedness.
A person who rejoices moderately remains alert. A person who rejoices excessively forgets that life shifts without warning.
Moral Reflection
Excessive joy often forgets humility.
This saying does not ask you to suppress happiness; it asks you to anchor it. Gratitude should deepen awareness, not erase it.
Life’s softness means it can bend beautifully — or snap suddenly. Wisdom is knowing the difference.
Application
This saying applies powerfully across modern life:
- In success, it counsels restraint.
- In leadership, it warns against triumphalism.
- In wealth, it curbs arrogance.
- In public praise, it protects inner balance.
- In personal wins, it preserves perspective.
It teaches us to celebrate with memory, not abandon.
Broad Theme
Measured joy in an unstable world
Supporting Themes
- The impermanence of fortune
- Emotional discipline in success
- Humility as wisdom
- Awareness during favourable seasons
- Life’s fragility and unpredictability
Closing Reflection
When life smiles, smile back — but do not laugh as though it cannot change. Those who know that ayé fẹ̀lẹ̀ celebrate softly, walk carefully, and remain ready.
Joy without balance forgets tomorrow. Joy with wisdom survives it.
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