Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́
The English phrase 'God help me' is translated into Yoruba as Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́.
Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́ is used as a direct prayer or a desperate plea when facing difficulty.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Ọlọ́run (God), ràn (help/assist), mí (me) and lọ́wọ́ (with hand/assistance).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb ràn is in its base form to express a request or prayer.
Did you know?
- Yoruba has a vast array of names for the divine, but Ọlọ́run is the most universal term because it literally translates to 'Owner of the Sky'.
- The word lọ́wọ́ literally means 'with hand'. In Yoruba culture, divine help is conceptualized as God physically reaching out His hand to lift or support a person.
- In Yoruba culture, if you say Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́ during a difficult task, onlookers might see it as a way to acknowledge that the work is beyond human strength.
Examples in context
- Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́ nínú ìṣòro yìí.God help me in this trouble.
- Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́ láti ṣe iṣẹ́ yìí.God help me to do this work.
Example conversation
Morenike is feeling overwhelmed by her studies.
- MorenikeIṣẹ́ yìí pọ̀ jù, Ọlọ́run ràn mí lọ́wọ́.This work is too much, God help me.
- BabatundeMá ṣe jẹ́ kí nàní bà ẹ́ nínú rẹ̀.Don't let it overwhelm you.
- MorenikeṢùgbọ́n mo ní ìyàsótá gidi.But I am really struggling.
- BabatundeMo máa ràn ẹ́ lọ́wọ́, Morenike.I will help you, Morenike.
