a good reminder from africa

i stumbled across an african proverb last week that intrigued me. not only the proverb itself, but the explanation of its background as well. it’s a good reminder for me to really listen and discern – listening to the words, but also paying close attention to the motives, of the person speaking. it’s also a good reminder for me to surround myself with people who truly care about me and have my best interests at heart. perhaps god can/will use these individuals to be the voice (or at least confirm the voice) that i have been seeking. here is what i found.

tuareg proverb
ta n-ameri salah, ta n-amiksan sadsa.

english translation
the (word) of a friend makes you cry; the (word) of an enemy makes you laugh.

background, explanation and everyday use
the tuaregs are a nomadic people of the central and western sahara and along the middle niger from tombouctou to nigeria. interpersonal relationships are very close and tight in the tuareg society.

advice given by someone who has your best interests at heart is sometimes unpleasant and even painful, but the person who seeks your downfall may deliberately encourage you toward hidden danger with advice that seems pleasant and good. this tuareg proverb is used in two ways: either as an encouragement to take harsh advice from a friend in the spirit it is intended, or as a warning not to follow the deceptively attractive advice of someone who doesn't have our interests at heart.

biblical parallels
proverbs 27:6: “well meant are the wounds a friend inflicts, but profuse are the kisses of an enemy.”

contemporary use and religious application
for the tuaregs and indeed for all people everywhere, there is a great need for discernment regarding the company we keep and the advice we take.