Words Create Worlds
Five & Two’s network spans the globe. We work across many different cultures and we are always intrigued by foreign languages and particularly words that do not translate into English. Our development work is built from a foundation of principles. One such principle is the Constructionist Principle and one aspect of this principle is the concept that ‘words create worlds’. Words that are culturally unique give us great insight into cultural and community values. In other words, ‘words unlock truth to a culture’. Let’s look at a few examples that are used in the context of positive community interactions.
Bayanihan is a Filipino word derived from the word bayan meaning town, nation, or community in general. "Bayanihan" literally means, "being a bayan," and is thus used to refer to a spirit of communal unity and cooperation.
Botho is a word from Lesotho. The concept of Botho has its roots in the concept of Motho which means a human being. The concept is sometimes expressed through the maxim: “motho ke motho ka batho” in Sesotho language. In English language this means that; to be a human being is to affirm one’s humanity by recognizing the humanity of others and on that basis, establish humane relations with them. Therefore, the establishment of humane relations is Botho (humanness).
Kombit is a Haitian word meaning to describe an intentional practice of individuals coming together to share work and accomplish more than they can accomplish alone.
Ubuntu is a Zulu term for "I am, because you are". In fact, the word ubuntu is just part of the phrase "Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu", which literally means that a person is a person through other people. ... Ubuntu is that nebulous concept of common humanity, oneness: humanity, you and me both.
Imbizo is a South African term for ‘a gathering’ usually called by a community leader. The purpose of the meeting is surrounding community policy.
Harambee is a Kenyan tradition of community self-help events, e.g. fundraising or development activities. Harambee literally means "all pull together" in Swahili, and is also the official motto of Kenya and appears on its coat of arms.
And then for our final example we’ll use the Swedish term Lagom. This word means when something is just the right amount. You’ve probably read just the perfect amount by now!