Notice: The article below is written for Uusi Rovaniemi newspaper, property of Lapin Kansa Oy.
I faced a dilemma trying to decide which issue to write about this month. I usually have a number of ideas in mind; I, then, sleep over them and on the next day I come up with the topic.
This time, I have decided to guide you though the wisdom of the Greek and Finnish culture as it is being depicted by their proverbs. The values and the wisdom of the ages, which grow out of the historic, social, ethical, and religious essence of a culture are encapsulated in their proverbs. Generally regarded as pithy sayings, most hold a well-known truth. However, as cultures change over time, sometimes a proverb becomes obsolete. Additionally, not only do values and proverbs change, but also the actual importance of proverbs differs from culture to culture. Proverbs point to similarities as well as to contrasts across cultures.
Below I have listed a set of proverbs in pairs:
GR- « Many words are poverty » (In Greek=Ta polla logia ine ftohia)
FI- « A man is valued by his work, not his words »
The Greek saying, which has its’ roots in ancient Sparta, indicates that we should speak clearly and to the point. It can be used in a setting where a person speaks endlessly about what they are ‘going to do’, instead of ‘doing it’. The Spartans were taught to speak with little words, to have humility, to be wise, to respect the elders and the laws of their nation. These values formed the basis of this ancient Greek super power.
The Finnish saying has a similar context, which could be summarized in ‘actions speak louder than words’ and, therefore, people of actions are highly respected.
GR- « Past year, better year » (In Greek = Kathe persi ke kalitera)
FI- « Uusi päivä, uudet kujeet » (=A new day shows a new ways)
The Greek saying could describe people who focus on the past; they do not particularly care for change. This is not to say that Greek culture closes its mind or borders to new technologies, but preserving and honouring the past plays an important role.
On the other hand, the Finnish saying is looks into the future. Finnish culture is future-oriented. While past is still in the background, most effort is placed on the future. Change is regarded as good.
GR- «If you do not have the brains, you need to have legs » (In Greek =Opoios den exei mialo, exei podia)
FI- «Tyhmä paljon työtä tekee viisas pääsee vähemmällä » (=The stupid works hard, the smart gets it done easily)
Both proverbs basically indicate that if you do not work smart, you must work hard.
There are so many things that unite people despite geographical, cultural or political differences and it is up to us to discover and build the bridges of communication.
Lastly, five sayings that puzzled me:
Ø Toimii kuin junan vessa.
Ø Kylmä kahvi kaunistaa.
Ø Köyhällä ei ole varaa halpaan.
Ø Äänellänsä se variskin laulaa.
Ø Ei todenpuhuja saa yösijaa.
If someone knows the meaning of the above proverbs please contact me.
