Signification
Doing things too fast causes mistakes.
Contexte culturel
In Tanzania, the concept of 'Ujamaa' (brotherhood) and a relaxed social pace often means that rushing is seen as a sign of poor character. This proverb is frequently used in schools to instill a sense of 'umakini' (attention to detail). In the fast-paced environment of Nairobi, this proverb is often used ironically or as a genuine warning against the 'Matatu' (minibus) culture, where drivers rush dangerously to make more money. As the heart of Swahili culture, Zanzibar embodies the 'pole pole' lifestyle. Here, the proverb is a way of life, reflecting the Islamic belief that patience (subira) is a virtue. Among the Bajuni and other coastal groups, the proverb is linked to the sea. Rushing a voyage against the tides is seen as inviting disaster, hence the lack of 'baraka'.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone they are doing a bad job because they are rushing, use this proverb. It makes the criticism feel like 'cultural advice' rather than a personal attack.
Don't use in emergencies
Never say this to someone who is in a genuine rush for a good reason (like catching a flight or a medical emergency).
Signification
Doing things too fast causes mistakes.
Use it to soften criticism
If you need to tell someone they are doing a bad job because they are rushing, use this proverb. It makes the criticism feel like 'cultural advice' rather than a personal attack.
Don't use in emergencies
Never say this to someone who is in a genuine rush for a good reason (like catching a flight or a medical emergency).
The 'Pole Pole' connection
This proverb is the 'why' behind the famous Swahili phrase 'Pole pole'. When someone tells you 'pole pole', they are essentially invoking the wisdom of 'haraka haraka haina baraka'.
Teste-toi
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
Haraka haraka haina _______.
The proverb is 'Haraka haraka haina baraka' (Haste has no blessing).
In which situation is it MOST appropriate to say 'Haraka haraka haina baraka'?
Choose the best context:
The proverb is used to warn against careless speed that leads to mistakes.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Ninataka kumaliza kazi hii sasa hivi!' B: 'Tulia, rafiki yangu. _______.'
B is advising A to be patient and calm.
Match the Swahili words to their English meanings.
Match the following:
These are the core components of the proverb and its related concepts.
Which of these is a common variation of the proverb?
Select the correct variation:
The proverb is often shortened by removing the first 'haraka'.
🎉 Score : /5
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
5 exercicesHaraka haraka haina _______.
The proverb is 'Haraka haraka haina baraka' (Haste has no blessing).
Choose the best context:
The proverb is used to warn against careless speed that leads to mistakes.
A: 'Ninataka kumaliza kazi hii sasa hivi!' B: 'Tulia, rafiki yangu. _______.'
B is advising A to be patient and calm.
Associez chaque element a gauche avec son pair a droite :
These are the core components of the proverb and its related concepts.
Select the correct variation:
The proverb is often shortened by removing the first 'haraka'.
🎉 Score : /5
Questions fréquentes
5 questionsNo, 'haraka' just means speed or haste. It is neutral. It only becomes negative in the context of this proverb where it implies *excessive* or *careless* haste.
Yes, but be careful. If your boss is telling you to hurry, saying this might sound like you are being lazy. It is better used by a boss to an employee, or between equals.
It means 'blessing'. In a secular context, it means a good result, success, or something that brings satisfaction and longevity.
In Swahili, repeating a word (reduplication) often adds emphasis or indicates a continuous, sometimes frantic, action.
Yes, people often just say 'Haraka haina baraka'.
Expressions liées
Pole pole ndio mwendo
similarSlowly slowly is the way to go.
Subira huvuta heri
builds onPatience brings happiness/blessing.
Mbio za sakafuni huishia ukingoni
contrastA sprint on the floor ends at the edge.
Haba na haba hujaza kibaba
similarLittle by little fills the container.
