The crow knows who is dead, but it does not tell the hunter

secrecysecretspowerdiscretionknowledge

Philosophical Summary

Just as a scavenger bird (the crow) possesses knowledge that would benefit the predator (the hunter) but remains silent, a wise person possesses 'secrets' (inner thoughts, spiritual warnings, or communal knowledge) that they must not share with those who might exploit them. Silence is a form of protection. Sharing everything leads to being used by others' agendas.

Meaning

Possessing knowledge does not require the immediate broadcast of that knowledge; power lies in what remains unsaid.

Usage Context

Used to counsel an initiate to keep their personal 'Awo' (secrets) or to warn against over-sharing in a competitive environment.

Sacred Verses

English

The crow knows who is dead, but it does not tell the hunter. Spiritual secrets must be kept to maintain power. Not all knowledge is for public distribution; silence is your greatest shield.

Tradition Perspectives

isese

Source: Standard Proverbial Wisdom.

Related Wisdom

Odù Ifá(1)

Owonrin-Meji

Attribution

Researcher: Antigravity

Research date: 2026-02-27

Expert Review: not_requested

Citation Coverage: incomplete

Cultural Boundary Reviewed: true