Advice to husbands from a nomadic tribe

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In Other Words

By James R. Henderson

he Tuareg, once a nomadic tribe in the Sahara Desert, but now living mostly in Western Africa, have a saying: "Ur é erz aw Adem akus wa day y isass." It means literally, "Man, don’t break the vase from which you drink." But it’s used to convey the thought that your wife is precious, so don’t in any way abuse her.

In the Bible we are told to "be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life" (1 Peter 3:7). In other words, knowing that your wife may be physically weaker than you and that she is your equal partner spiritually, hold her in high respect and treat her accordingly.

What is your attitude toward your wife? Do you surround her with caring compassion? Do you love her with kindness and gentleness, always taking good care of her? •