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Rafiki is really wise and when he finds adult Simba, he’s got some serious knowledge to drop. We’ve highlighted ten Rakifi quotes that really make us stop and say, “whoa.” So the next time you need some advice, turn to your favorite (maybe completely crazy) baboon.
“Asante sana squash banana!”
This is important for three reasons, first it rhymes, which is something the world needs more of in general. Second, “asante sana” means “thank you” in Swahili, so Rafiki is reminding us to be polite. Third, remembering to eat your five a day (servings of fruit and veg) is important for your well-being. Thanks, Rafiki.
“Can’t cut it out, it will grow right back.”
While this is kind of a weird one to visualize, what Rafiki’s really saying here is that you can’t take the easy way out of things. If you ignore a problem, that problem will never be resolved.
“The question is: who are you?”
We’re getting really deep. Knowing you who are is a journey worth going on. Remember to spend time with yourself, and make sure you know what matters to you.
“You’re a baboon, and I’m not.”
Not all baboons are actually baboons. Sometimes being a baboon just means you’re being silly. Just FYI.
YOGA BREAK.
Not a quote, but necessary for a zen lifestyle.
“Don’t dawdle. HURRY UP!”
Rafiki is telling us not to waste time. Life is short! Don’t twiddle your thumbs waiting for things to happen, get out there and make them happen!
“Look harder.”
Feel like giving up? Things not as easy as you expected? Well don’t give up. Keep going; keep trying. With a little effort, you can do anything.
“He lives in you.”
You are never alone. You’ll always have your identity, beliefs and the love of friends and family. Never forget that. (We know this just got really serious. We’ll resume our regularly scheduled silliness below.)
“Change is good.”
Change is good. Without it, life can get a little mundane. So try something new! Embrace challenges! How about a different coffee order?
“The past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.”
This is the ultimate Rakifi tidbit. It really sums up all of his wisdom. Bad things happen, learn what you can and keep moving forward.
Catch more of your favorite Rafiki quotes in The Lion King, streaming now on Disney+!