12 Insightful Jamaican Proverbs

Jamaican Proverbs may sound humorous when spoken, however never dismiss the hidden warnings in each one.

These proverbs were developed by fore fathers as a simple but effective way to impart great truths and useful life lessons unto younger generations.

Almost every Jamaican is familiar with these common sayings:

1. Jackass seh di worl’ nuh level – Jackass says the world is not level
It is foolish to expect favor in life as no one ever said life is fair.

2. If yuh want good, yuh nose affi run – If you want good your nose must run
When in pursuit of great things one must endure hardship

3. Chicken merry, Hawk deh near – Chicken is merry but Hawk is near
Never become complacent as trouble may be lurking

4. Wah nuh kill yuh, fatten yuh – What doesn’t kill you, fattens you
When you endure difficulty without dying you always emerge stronger than before

5. Play fool fi ketch wise – Act a fool to get wise
Fake ignorance to achieve wisdom

6. Every mickle mek a muckle
Small things can accumulate into something bigger

7. Talk an’ taste yuh tongue – Talk and taste your tongue
Always contemplate upon the meaning and effects of things we say before speaking

8. Wantie Wantie cya getti, Getti Getti nuh wantie - Want but cannot get, Get but do not want
Appreciate what you have because there is always someone else in need 

9. Trouble nuh set like rain – Trouble doesn’t set like rain
It is never announced when trouble will strike so remain alert

10. Di hotta di battle, di sweeta di victory – The harder the battle, the sweeter the victory
The more difficult it is to solve a problem, the greater the reward    

11. Hell an’ powda house – Hell and powder house
Chaos will erupt

12. Wah serve too long, serve two masters – What serves too long will serve two masters
Cease opportunities with urgency before someone else does