The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree.

What it means

Size is not strength. A tiny grub can eat through a giant tree. Never write off a small opponent, and never write yourself off for being small.

The source

"The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree." This Maori proverb is recorded in Taylor, Te Ika a Maui (1870), Wakatauki no. 50. Translated from the original Maori by Spartan Surfers.

"He iti hoki te Mokoroa, nana i kakati te Kahikatea."

Original Maori, Taylor, Te Ika a Maui (1870), Wakatauki no. 50. Text read at archive.org.

Who said it

Proverbs of the world (Every age). Sayings from the Latin, Greek, Norse, Japanese, Chinese and more, each traced to an old source in its own language.

Questions

What does "The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree." mean?

Size is not strength. A tiny grub can eat through a giant tree. Never write off a small opponent, and never write yourself off for being small.

Who said "The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree."?

Maori proverb. Source: Taylor, Te Ika a Maui (1870), Wakatauki no. 50.

What is the original Maori?

He iti hoki te Mokoroa, nana i kakati te Kahikatea. Translated from the original Maori by Spartan Surfers.

Is "The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree." on a shirt?

Yes. We print it to order on our tees in 7 illustrated looks, from $44, with free US shipping.

"The grub is small, yet it eats through the tallest tree." (Maori proverb, Taylor, Te Ika a Maui (1870), Wakatauki no. 50, translated by Spartan Surfers). https://spartansurfers.com/quotes/the-grub-is-small-yet-it-eats-through