Hawaiian proverbs

Proverbs from all Hawaiian speaking parts of the world.

E

• E noho iho i ke opu weuweu, mai ho ` oki`eki`e.
  • Translation: Remain among the clumps of grass and do not elevate yourself.
  • Meaning: Those who humbly serve the Lord will be rewarded, and those who are arrogant will be humbled; Pride is a sin, humility is a virtue.
  • English equivalent: The last will be first, and the first last.
  • Redfern (2009). Ancient Wisdoms: Exploring the Mysteries and Connections. AuthorHouse. p. 115. ISBN 1449057608. 

O

• O ka makapo wale no ka mea hapapa i ka pouli.
  • Translation: Only the blind gropes in the darkness.
  • Meaning: If you have no direction in life, you'll get nowhere or another way to put it is, "If you're going nowhere, you're guaranteed to get there." In other words, it is better to have a bad plan than no plan.
  • Redfern (2009). Ancient Wisdoms: Exploring the Mysteries and Connections. AuthorHouse. p. 114. ISBN 1449057608.