Tsumo

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

Hukwana inodya ndeiri pana mai.

Translation The chick that feeds is the one closest to the mother. Inspiration Chicks always depend on their mother for … Read more

Hurudza inofa ichinzi inodya.

Word definitions hurudza: outstanding farmer Translation An outstanding farmer will starve to death, as everyone else believes he has plenty. … Read more

Hwoni hwenyoka, kuruma chaisingadyi.

Definitions hwoni: malice Translation It is pure malice when a snake bites what it cannot consume. Application Some people do … Read more

Idya zvose; gudo harina nhunzi.

Translation Eat everything; a baboon does not mind flies. Application One should not discriminate against someone because they regard them … Read more

Igangaidza mukwenyi, mhezi yavavira mudumbu.

Definitions gangaidza: bewilder or confuse mhezi: aggressive skin eruption Translation It is bewildering for one to have an itch in … Read more

Igangaidza vavigi, kusvunura kwemufi.

Definitions gangaidza: bewilder or confuse Translation A corpse that opens its eyes bewilders the grave-diggers. Application Some stressful/ difficult situations … Read more

Imbwa hora haihukuri nhando.

Word definitions hora: aged dog nhando: pointlessly Translation An aged dog does not bark pointlessly. Application Older people are more … Read more

Imbwa ine hona haihukuri.

Word definitions hona: big bone Translation A dog with a bone (in its mouth)  does not bark. Application One who … Read more

Imbwa inoba mazai, mangwana inodya huku.

Translation A dog that steals eggs will one day eat the chickens. Application Bad behaviour that is left unchecked will … Read more

Imbwa inoruma vaenzi, mangwana icharuma vatenzi.

Translation A dog that bites visitors will one day bite its master. Application Bad behavior that is left unchecked will … Read more

Imbwa ivete haimutsirwi sadza.

Translation A sleeping dog should not be roused for food. Application Avoid interfering in a situation that is currently causing … Read more

Imbwa mbiri hadzitorerwi nyama.

Translation A piece of meat cannot be pulled away from two dogs. Application The combined strength of two people cannot … Read more

Imbwa payadyira haipakanganwi.

Translation A dog will not forget the place at which it fed. Application When in need, one is more likely … Read more

Imbwa yakaipa kazhinji mukanwa munowira bvupa rakanaka.

Definitions bvupa: bone Translation It’s often the bad dog that gets the good bone. Application Sometimes, those who seem least … Read more

Imhashu yomurwere inogochwa yakabatwa gumbo.

Definitions mhashu: locust Translation It is a sick man’s locust that is roasted while clutched by the leg. Application When … 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.

    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.

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