"The knife sharpens on the stone, not on ..." - Congolese Proverb

“The knife sharpens on the stone, not on silk.”

- Congolesestrength

Meaning

Character and skill are honed through difficult circumstances, not easy ones.

Kongo tool-making traditions require rough grinding surfaces. Smooth materials cannot create a sharp edge, just as comfort cannot build strength.

Origin

Congolese

Language

Kikongo

“The strongest iron is forged in the hottest fire.”

Nigerian

“Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.”

Swahili

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