We all drink from the same stream

Water plays a very important role in the amaXhosa culture. It is a symbol of life, healing, challenges and human nature.

The list of idioms and proverbs about water from the amaXhosa culture that was chosen for this book reminds us of a proud linguistic and cultural heritage. It makes us aware of the joint responsibility we have to keep our water sources clean and conserve them.

These idioms and proverbs about water also reinforce the three languages’ (isiXhosa, Afrikaans and English) harmonious relationship with nature and the environment as it emerges in the amaXhosa heritage. It, therefore, makes a major contribution to the protection of our water resources.

Short audio clips demonstrate how the idioms in the book come to life when used in context.