Ewu iná kìí pa àwòdì – Yoruba Wisdom on Resilience and Mastery Over Danger

Last updated: January 8, 2026

Yoruba Wisdom

Ewu iná kìí pa àwòdì

Literal Translation

The peril of fire cannot kill a falcon. (Or: fire’s danger does not harm the falcon.)

Interpretation

This proverb celebrates innate power, resilience, and mastery over adversity. In Yoruba thought:

• Iná (fire) represents danger, trial, or destructive force.
• àwòdì (falcon, here) symbolizes skill, strength, or excellence — the one equipped to withstand danger.

The wisdom: those equipped with the right strength, wisdom, or skill are immune to threats that would overwhelm the unprepared. Danger exists, but mastery renders it ineffective. True ability or preparedness renders danger ineffective. Just as a falcon cannot be contained by fire’s threat, as it can easily fly away, a capable person remains unshaken in the face of challenges that would overwhelm the untrained or unworthy.

It is a proverb of confidence grounded in competence, not recklessness.

Application

• Leadership & enterprise: Only those with skill, preparation, or virtue can navigate extreme challenges safely.
• Personal development: Cultivate strength, mastery, and knowledge; danger only harms the unready.
• Conflict or competition: Recognise your unique strengths; the perils that intimidate others may leave you untouched.
• Moral lesson: True resilience comes from ability, not from the absence of danger.

In essence, the proverb encourages preparation, self-mastery, and courage rooted in competence.

Broad Theme

Resilience and Mastery Over Danger

Supporting Themes

Innate strength, competence versus peril, courage grounded in skill, preparedness, fearlessness, moral and physical fortitude, overcoming adversity.