This Malagasy proverb refers to the ancient local beliefs and superstitions, particularly about the Vazimba, who are considered ancestral spirits or the first inhabitants of Madagascar. When illness occurs, it is believed that the Vazimba are the cause. To appease these spirits, offerings such as chickens are made. Thus, even though the Vazimba cause the illness, it is ultimately the chickens, as offerings, that pay the price. This highlights the belief in invisible forces and the necessity of sacrifices to restore balance. An equivalent English proverb might be ‘You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar,’ which also suggests the idea of appeasing or winning favor through appropriate means.