Tsumo

The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.

Abara atochena mwoyo.

Translation One who bears a child commits themselves to being tolerant. Application Every parent should realise that they are not … Read more

Afa haachatyi kuora.

Translation One who has died is no longer afraid to rot. Application One who has decided to carry out a … Read more

Afa, afa nemuromo wake.

Translation One who has died has died with their mouth. Application When one dies, the things of this world are … Read more

Afira nyora haachemwi.

Word definitions nyora: These are small deep incisions made into the skin, leaving permanent marks after healing. Translation People will … Read more

Agara murutsva haatyi kusviba magaro.

Definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass Translation One who sits on burnt veld should be prepared to have his backside … Read more

Ageza haanokorerwi.

Translation Someone who has washed their hands does not need another person to scoop their food for them. Application Once … Read more

Agumhina afamba, hazvienzani naTigere.

Word definitions gumhina: limp Tigere: name which literally means ‘we are seated’ Translation One who has limped has walked, unlike … Read more

Agura musuva atozva mwoyo, hazvienzani neagere.

Word definitions gura: break off musuva: morsel of sadza taken in the hand when eating. tozva: ease hunger only slightly … Read more

Aiva madziva, ava mazambuko.

Word Definitions dziva: pool (in river) zambuko: ford Translation What used to be pools are now fords. Application Circumstances sometimes … Read more

Aiva maguta ava matongo.

Word Definitions guta: Large village of chief. City. dongo: Abandoned village site Translation What used to be large villages are … Read more

Aive matandadziva, ava magarangwena.

Definitions dandadziva: long pool magarangwena: dwelling place of crocodiles Translation What used to be deep long pools are now crocodile … Read more

Akanga nyimo avangarara.

Definitions vangarara: be audaciously bold nyimo: roundnut. bambara groundnut Translation One who chooses to roast roundnuts is really bold. Inspiration … Read more

Akazvara sekera muchitende.

Word definitions dende: hollowed out and dried gourd used as a container. (Large gourds are also used to mount the … Read more

Akumbira banga, ada kupa muridzi nyama.

Translation One who borrows a knife is prepared to give the owner some meat. Application This proverb teaches reciprocity and … Read more

Akweva sanzu, akweva namarara aro.

Translation One who drags a branch, drags along its leaves. Application Some responsibilities come with other responsibilities, some of which … Read more

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    ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.

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