20 Lesotho Proverbs and Their Meanings

Proverbs are more than just sayings—they are vessels of ancient wisdom, cultural identity, and life philosophy. In Lesotho, proverbs (known as maele) are deeply rooted in oral tradition and continue to shape the way Basotho people communicate, teach, and understand the world. Each proverb in this article offers a glimpse into the collective consciousness of the Basotho nation—reflecting values like respect, humility, hard work, family, and resilience.

This article, “20 Lesotho Proverbs and Their Meanings,” is not only a collection of wise sayings but also a celebration of Lesotho’s rich linguistic heritage. It provides:

• Cultural insight into how the Basotho people interpret life
• Moral guidance that transcends generations
• Linguistic appreciation of Sesotho as a language of depth and beauty
• Educational value for young Africans seeking to reconnect with their roots

Whether you’re a proud Mosotho, a student of African languages, or simply a lover of cultural wisdom, this collection of proverbs will deepen your appreciation for the enduring relevance of African oral tradition in the modern world.

1. “Lehlanya ke le sa utloeng ke batho.”

Translation: A fool is one who does not listen to others.

Meaning: Wisdom comes from being teachable; ignoring advice leads to poor decisions.

2. “Metseng e metle ho ba teng ha e jeoe.”

Translation: Beautiful villages are not eaten.

Meaning: Appearance alone does not bring value—what matters is substance.

3. “Monna o tentšoa habeli.”

Translation: A man is warned twice.

Meaning: You are given chances to correct your path—ignore them at your own risk.

4. “Lefu ke ngwetsi, le tla mo hauhela.”

Translation: Death is like a bride—it will eventually have mercy.

Meaning: Death comes to all; it does not discriminate or delay forever.

5. “Ngoana ke oa motho e mong le e mong.”

Translation: A child belongs to everyone.

Meaning: The community shares responsibility in raising and protecting children.

6. “Lesaka ha le hloke molisa.”

Translation: A kraal needs a shepherd.

Meaning: Every group or society needs leadership and guidance.

7. “Moko o oelelwang ke wa pele.”

Translation: The stick that is shouted at is the first to be picked.

Meaning: When trouble is mentioned, it often lands on the one already being warned.

8. “Phiri e ja ka maoto a yona.”

Translation: A jackal feeds with its own feet.

Meaning: One must work hard to earn their keep—no one will do it for you.

9. “Molato ha o bole.”

Translation: A crime has no smell.

Meaning: Wrongdoing can be hidden—appearances can deceive.

10. “Lefu le a hlola, le a hlotseng ha le bole.”

Translation: Death conquers, but never boasts.

Meaning: Some forces, like death, are powerful and silent.

11. “Ngoana o hlonngoa ke ho hloka mollo.”

Translation: A child cries because there’s no fire (warmth).

Meaning: People complain or act out when their needs aren’t met.

12. “Ho hloka tsatsi ha se lefifi.”

Translation: Lack of sunlight is not darkness.

Meaning: Challenges aren’t the end—there’s still hope or light.

13. “Khomo e jele masapo.”

Translation: The cow has eaten bones.

Meaning: Something unusual or wrong has occurred.

14. “Motho ke motho ka batho.”

Translation: A person is a person through others.

Meaning: This is Ubuntu in practice—humanity is interconnected.

15.  “Nonyana e bona ka mahlo, motho o bona ka kelello.”

Translation: A bird sees with its eyes; a person sees with the mind.

Meaning: Humans must use wisdom, not just sight, to make decisions.

16. “Metsi a mathe ha a phethoe.”

Translation: Running water is never finished.

Meaning: Life, like water, continues to flow despite obstacles.

17. “Bana ba ngoetsi ba hlonola kapele.”

Translation: A bride’s children grow up quickly.

Meaning: People are quick to blame or judge outsiders.

18. “Metsi a pula a fofa ka sefefo.”

Translation: Rainwater can be swept away by the storm.

Meaning: Opportunities can be lost if not taken care of.

19. “Tau e nyenyane ke tau.”

Translation: A small lion is still a lion.

Meaning: Even the young or small deserve respect—they carry potential.

20. “Ha ho nyane ho sa leqe.”

Translation: No act is too small to attempt.

Meaning: Every effort matters—don’t underestimate the little things.

Lesotho proverbs hold timeless wisdom about community, survival, identity, and values. Whether you’re Basotho or simply curious about African culture, these sayings remind us of the richness embedded in our languages and traditions.