Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Translation One who bears a child commits themselves to being tolerant. Application Every parent should realise that they are not … Read more
Translation One who has died is no longer afraid to rot. Application One who has decided to carry out a … Read more
Translation One who has died has died with their mouth. Application When one dies, the things of this world are … Read more
Word definitions nyora: These are small deep incisions made into the skin, leaving permanent marks after healing. Translation People will … Read more
Definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass Translation One who sits on burnt veld should be prepared to have his backside … Read more
Word definitions gumhina: limp Tigere: name which literally means ‘we are seated’ Translation One who has limped has walked, unlike … Read more
Word definitions gura: break off musuva: morsel of sadza taken in the hand when eating. tozva: ease hunger only slightly … Read more
Word Definitions dziva: pool (in river) zambuko: ford Translation What used to be pools are now fords. Application Circumstances sometimes … Read more
Word Definitions guta: Large village of chief. City. dongo: Abandoned village site. Translation What used to be large villages are … Read more
Word definitions dende: hollowed out and dried gourd used as a container. (Large gourds are also used to mount the … Read more
Translation One who drags a branch, drags along its leaves. Application Some responsibilities come with other responsibilities, some of which … Read more
Definitions hwowa: mushroom Translation One with animal skin (for relish) has meat, and is better than one who has mushrooms. … Read more
Word definitions kuma: low Translation The owner of a cow knows how it lows. Application One who is well acquainted … Read more
Translation He who tells you to work the land wants you to have food. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily … Read more
Translation He who tells you to raise your child wants you to have someone to send on errands. Application Sometimes … Read more
Learning solutions
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About Shungu
Shungu is the voice behind ZimbOriginal. She has a restless hand and a penchant for discovery. Her upbringing is fairly balanced between an urban and rural setting. The urban - pretty basic and spent almost entirely in boarding school. The rural - not so glorious and filled with all the dreaded chores that come with keeping a rural homestead going. Shungu is a qualified chartered management accountant and currently lives in Harare, Zimbabwe. Learn more.
