The proverb ‘Aza kely faka kitay ka be bahana’ originates from the Merina people and advises against pretending to be more prosperous than one truly is. It warns against putting on a facade of wealth while being significantly less fortunate in reality. The corresponding English proverb would be ‘Do not appear abundant in firewood but actually be lacking’. This wisdom highlights the importance of honesty and modesty over showiness and the illusion of prosperity.