Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe:Explainations of Proverbs

1.  "If a child washed his hands, he could eat with kings."  P. 8 - Achievement is more worthy of respect than age.
2. "... a man who pays respect to the great paves way for his own greatness." P. 19-  If one respects the successful, he or she is likely to receive respect in return.
3. "A toad does not run in the daytime for nothing." P. 20- There is a reason for everything. 
4. "The lizard that jumped from the high iroko tree to the ground said he would praise himself if no one else did." P. 21- One should recognize his or her accomplishments without needing praise from others.
5. "...since men have learned to shoot without missing, [Eneke the bird] has learned to fly without perching." P. 22- Changing situations lead to adjustment.
6. "Those whose palm-kernels were cracked for them by a benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble." P. 26 - Those who are blessed should not criticize others, but remain grateful for their fortunes.
7. "A chick that will grow into a cock can be spotted the very day it hatches." P. 66- Actions rather than age can show maturity.
8. "The Earth cannot punish me for obeying her messenger." P. 67- Castigation should not ensue when one completes necessary action.
9. "When mother-cow is chewing grass its young ones watch its mouth." P. 71- Children learn from their parent.
10. "...if one finger brought oil it soiled the others." P. 125 - One’s actions not only affect oneself but also the surrounding people.
11. "Never kill a man who says nothing." P. 140- Do not harm the innocent.
12. "There is nothing to fear from someone who shouts." P. 140 -Threats without action should not be intimidating.
13. "Living fire begets cold, impotent ash." P. 151- Haughtiness alienates others.
14. "An animal rubs its itching flank against a tree, a man asks his kinsman to scratch him." P. 165- People are different from animals, being able to rely on each other in times of need.
15.  "...as a man danced so the drums were beaten for him." P. 185- One can choose his or her own future.