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Isalakutshelwa sibona ngomopho
Zulu proverb · isiZulu
Literally: “The one who refuses to be told sees by (the flowing of) blood.”
Meaning: A person who will not heed advice or warning learns only through painful consequences.
Background
A well-known cautionary isiZulu proverb. 'Isala kutshelwa' (the one who refuses to be told) is itself a fixed expression; 'umopho' refers to gushing/flowing blood, evoking injury as the harsh teacher. It is firmly part of the traditional proverb stock used in moral instruction.
How it is used
Used to warn or rebuke a stubborn person who ignores good advice — implying they will only understand once they suffer the results. Often said after the fact ('I told you so') or pre-emptively to a heedless person.