the kumara does not speak of its own sweetness

the kumara does not speak of its own sweetness
Maori proverb warning against self-praise (a kumara is a sweet potato).

2001 He Hinatore Ki Te Ao Maori A Glimpse into Maori World on http://www.justice.govt.nz Self-praising is an undesirable trait in traditional Maori society. It is synonymous with the expression ‘kaore te kumara e korero mo tona mangaroa—a kumara does not talk about its own sweetness’ ie, self-praise is no recommendation.

2003 speech in New Zealand Parliament 5 Mar. on http://www.hansard.parliament.govt.nz I tell Mr Cunliffe that there is an old saying in Maoridom: ‘The kumara never tells you how sweet it is.’.. f one is really so good, one does not need to tell the nation, the nation will tell one. But the nation is not saying that.

2004 weblog on [i]http://www.publicaddress.net 24 Dec. Now, Arihia would kick me if she knew I was writing this. Kaore te kumara e korero mo tona ake reka—it is not for the kumara to speak of its own sweetness, after all. So I thought I’d give you a few tasting notes. She’s a stellar person, a scholar and mentor without match.

2006 ‘What is Maori Patient-Centred Medicine for Pakeha GPs?’ on http://www.bpac.org.nz Oct. GPs that use their expertise for the good of others, show a sense of humility and are not arrogant about their position, gain particular respect. ‘The kumara does not speak of its own sweetness.’


Proverbs new dictionary.

Игры ⚽ Нужно решить контрольную?

Look at other dictionaries:

  • speak — see speak as you find never speak ill of the dead speak not of my debts unless you mean to pay them speak softly and carry a big stick actions speak louder than words out of the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks …   Proverbs new dictionary

  • kumara — see the kumara does not speak of its own sweetness …   Proverbs new dictionary

  • sweetness — see the kumara does not speak of its own sweetness …   Proverbs new dictionary

  • Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs, Thematic Index — absence absence makes the heart grow fonder he who is absent is always in the wrong the best of friends must part blue are the hills that are far away distance lends enchantment to the view out of sight, out of mind …   Proverbs new dictionary

  • Svayam Bhagavan — This article is about a Hindu philosophical concept: the original or absolute manifestation of God. For other meanings, see Krishna (disambiguation) and Bhagavan (disambiguation). Svayam Bhagavan (IAST IAST|svayam bhagavān ), The Lord or Lord… …   Wikipedia

Share the article and excerpts

Direct link
Do a right-click on the link above
and select “Copy Link”