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Checkout Why Yoruba say "Ai laso l'orun Paka, O to Apero gbogbo omo Eriwo"

What's the motive behind a Yoruba saying "Ai laso l'orun Paka, O to Apero gbogbo omo Eriwo"? What is the story behind this expression? Our does it relate to our daily lives? What lesson can we learn in the story? In today's post, we will detail the story behind what bring about this proverb in Yoruba Land.

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THE STORY
Once upon a time in the ancient Yoruba village of Owu; a town blessed with fertile lands and flowing rivers. There lived a man named Pàká, renowned for his generosity, diligence, and remarkable strength. Pàká was a farmer who work from dawn to dusk, cultivating the richest harvests in the village. Despite his immense wealth in farm produce, he had one flaw—he paid little attention to his appearance. His clothes were always tattered, and he wore no accessories, not even the simplest beads that signified prosperity in Yoruba tradition. One Yoruba proverbs says "Irinisi ni iseni l'ojo".

Pàká’s family known as Eríwo, was respected in Owu for their unity and industriousness. Yet, they were often embarrassed by Pàká's shabby dressing, which they saw as a stain on their status. They urged him to improve his appearance, but Pàká would laugh it off, saying, "It is the strength of the hands, not the shine of clothes, that builds a man's legacy."

One day, King Olówu, the revered ruler of Owu, announced a grand wrestling competition. The prize was extraordinary: the champion would win the hand of the beautiful princess, Adébímpe, and receive half of the king’s wealth. News of this competition spread like wildfire. Pàká, known for his incredible strength, was encouraged by his friends and family to enter.

Pàká's family saw this as an opportunity to elevate their status. The Eríwo family proudly encouraged Pàká to enter the competition, confident that his strength and skill would secure the family a place in the palace. However, no one in the family considered Pàká's appearance. His tattered clothes and bare feet, stained from years of working in the fields, reflected his humble life and became a silent concern among a few elders.

On the day of the competition, villagers gathered in the royal courtyard. Drummers beat their drums, singers sang praises of bravery, and the air buzzed with excitement. Pàká, wearing his usual torn clothes, stood out awkwardly among the finely dressed contestants. The wrestling matches began, and Pàká's strength was unmatched. One by one, he defeated his opponents, tossing them to the ground with ease. The crowd cheered, chanting his name, “Pàká! Pàká! Pàká!” By the final round, there was no doubt—Pàká was the champion.

As the drummers celebrated his victory, Pàká stood before the king to receive his prize. But King Olówu's face turned stern. He scanned Pàká from head to toe and said, “Your strength is commendable, and your victory undeniable. But as a champion, you represent Owu. Your appearance reflects not just you but our people and our royal household. I cannot bestow my daughter on someone who does not honor himself with dignity.”

Gasps of shock rippled through the crowd. The king's words echoed loudly, and the Eríwo family hung their heads in shame because this could have averted if they had cared more for him. Pàká’s tattered clothes had cost him the ultimate prize. Humiliated, Pàká returned home in silence. For days, he avoided the villagers, too ashamed to show his face. But his family, instead of scolding him, decided to teach him the value of collective responsibility and self-respect.

The Eríwo family came together and pooled their resources. They gathered fine fabrics, beads, and ornaments. Then, they held a small ceremony, presenting Pàká with new clothes. His elder brother said, “Pàká, your strength is our pride, but your appearance is our reflection. As a family, we are only as strong as our weakest link. Let us carry each other’s burdens and ensure that no one among us falls behind.” Pàká, deeply moved, vowed to never again bring shame upon his family or his village.

A year later, King Olówu held another competition. This time, Pàká entered the ring dressed in fine attire. His clothes sparkled with beads, and his presence commanded respect. He fought with the same strength and valor, once again emerging victorious. When he stood before the king, Olówu smiled and declared, “Now, this is a champion worthy of Owu. You not only represent yourself but your family and the dignity of our land.” Pàká was awarded the princess’s hand in marriage, and the Eríwo family was celebrated as an example of unity and mutual support.

Moral of the Story
The story of Pàká teaches the importance of being our brother’s keeper. In Yoruba culture, family and community are sacred, and everyone has a role to play in ensuring collective dignity. When one person falters, it is the duty of others to uplift them. As the Eríwo family demonstrated, unity and care can transform shame into honor, and weakness into strength.

What other lessons can you deduce from this story? Use the comment section below…