Ogbè wèyìn wò (Ogbe looks back)

Philosophical Summary

Ogbè Weyin is the quality of 'Retrospective Wisdom'. It teaches that one must constantly look back at the ancestors, the origin of a conflict, or the early steps of a project to ensure the current path is correct. Looking forward without looking back is a form of blindness. Progress is only stable when it is anchored in the lessons of the past.

Meaning

Origins dictate destination; understanding where you started is key to knowing how to finish.

Usage Context

Used to counsel someone who is repeating mistakes or neglected their ancestors or roots.

Sacred Verses

isese

Yorùbá

Ogbè wèyìn wò.

English

Ogbe looks back. If you do not know where you are coming from, you cannot possibly see where you are going. True sight requires a view of the path behind you.

Tradition Perspectives

isese