Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Translation The more children you bear, the more the tears. Application The bigger the family, the more the worries and … Read more
Word Definitions mapfihwa: large stones used to support a pot over a fire. Translation When those in the mountains ask … Read more
Word definitions muzvere: nursing mother Translation To enjoy favours from a nursing mother, one should attend to her child. Inspiration … Read more
Translation When you consume an ox, let it be the one you acquired through your own labour; that from your … Read more
Translation Take two knobkerries with you when pursuing a hare, so that when one misses the other will strike. Application … Read more
Definitions kwadi: slowly and carefully Inspiration A slow spiritless start to a journey could end in haste in an attempt … Read more
Word definitions ronzera: entrust someone else with something. Translation Entrusting a thief with something is a sure way to beat … Read more
Word definitions uta: bow (weapon for shooting arrows) gate: large earthenware pot for storage of dry foodstuffs or for holding … Read more
Translation Have two ready spears with you so that when one misses the other will strike. Application Having ready alternatives … Read more
Word definitions dira: perform libation as an offering to ancestral spirits. Translation Why would the ancestral spirits bring rain when … Read more
Translation A hide should be fitted over the drum base while it is still fresh. Application One should act early, … Read more
Definitions kanya: mix moistened matter by squeezing rangana: Confer. Agree Translation Mixing (the sadza and the milk) comes after agreement. … Read more
Translation Why fear the horns of an owl, which in actual fact are just feathers. Inspiration Some owl species have … Read more
Translation When it comes to getting to food, there is no mountain (that cannot be overcome). Application One will do … Read more
Word definitions seva: dip morsel of sadza into side-dish temura: eat sadza without any side-dish Translation Eating up the relish … Read more
Are You a Primary School Teacher?
Get my free children's Shona storybooks delivered straight to your school.
About
ZimbOriginal was born from a passion for discovery and writing, and a commitment to never losing sight of who we are.
It is a place for stories on culture, customs, traditions, and anything else indigenous to Zimbabwe. ZimbOriginal not only promotes cultural awareness, but also supports learning and discovery.
