Tamfo Bebre (Tamfo Bɛbrɛ) Symbol, Meaning and Significance

“Ɔtamfo Bɛbrɛ” literally means “An (unnamed) enemy will suffer” while “Me tamfo bɛbrɛ” means “My enemy will suffer.”

Tamfo Bɛbrɛ conjures up the image of a calabash or bowl that is difficult to submerge because the harder one pushes, the stronger the restistance one feels. Some Akans use such imagery to describe what futility and struggle their enemies must endure to keep them down.

Akan proverbs on ill-will

1. Woto adubɔne a ebi ka w’ano.
Literally: If you throw (apply) poison, some of it touches your mouth.