Labwor ma kok pe mako lee. (Acholi)
Simba angurumaye hamkamati mnyama. (Swahili)
Un lion qui grogne n’attrape pas une proie. (French)
A roaring lion does not catch any prey. (English)

Background, Explanation, History and Everyday Use

The Acholi people live mainly in Northern Uganda. Traditionally elders were the source of wisdom. This proverb is said of those who boast by words without action.

Biblical Parallels

“It is not anyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’ who will enter the kingdom of Heaven, but the person who does the will of my Father in Heaven” (cf. Matthew 7:21).

Contemporary Use and Religious Application

This Acholi proverb challenges one to live an authentic life and stand for what he or she believes in.

Rev. Thomas Komakech, AJ.
General Council – Apostles of Jesus
P.O. Box 24946, Karen,
00502 Nairobi, Kenya
Cellphone: 254-725-795479
Email: frthomask@yahoo.com

Illustrations provided by:

Professor Cephas Yao Agbemenu
Department of Fine Arts
Kenyatta University
P.O. Box 43844
Nairobi, Kenya
Cellphone: 254-723-307992
Email: cyagbemenu@yahoo.com