"Do not dispose of the monkey's tail befo..." - Kenyan Proverb

“Do not dispose of the monkey's tail before he is dead.”

- Kenyanfamily

Meaning

Do not divide an inheritance or disrespect elders while they are still alive.

Kikuyu inheritance customs require patience and respect for living elders. Premature claims on family assets are deeply offensive.

Origin

Kenyan

Language

Kikuyu

“The child you sired hasn't sired you; you are still his elder.”

Yoruba

“The old woman looks after the child to grow its teeth, and the young one in turn looks after the old woman when she loses hers.”

Akan

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