Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Definitions gombo: New agricultural land. Virgin soil. Translation One succeeds in farming four pieces of virgin land when they haven’t … Read more
Translation Even though bugs may bite, you should remain in the house; small troubles lead to bigger ones. Application People … Read more
Word definitions ndoro: shell-like white ornament (or real shell) worn generally on chest (of great antiquity, now associated with chieftainships … Read more
Definitions mano: artfulness. ingenuity Translation A plate lacks ingenuity; it doesn’t eat the food served to it. Application A person … Read more
Word definitions sanhu: axe ruzhowa: line of branches laid around an area as fencing Translation Chopping off branches for making … Read more
Word Definitions mukwambo: husband of one’s daughter mbuya: mother of man’s wife gapu: an earthenware pot used for cooking relish … Read more
Definitions gobvu: scar Translation There is no scar in fear. Inspiration Cowards avoid fights and as a result, are spared … Read more
Translation When you explain something to a child, do so to the very last detail. Inspiration Children are generally inexperienced … Read more
Word Definitions chitumba: small makeshift hut dzamba: take shelter Translation Make two shelters instead of one so that when one … Read more
Word definitions riva: trap with a falling flat stone for catching small animals Translation Trying to capture an elephant with … Read more
Translation When counting cattle, counting those that are elsewhere is counting tails as well. Inspiration In communities that practise livestock … Read more
Word definitions katurikwa: Something that is hanging, or placed on top of another. kwatara: An ideophone of falling to the … Read more
Translation It is good when there are many people, witches even detest it. Application A wide network of personal relationships … Read more
Translation It is good when there are many of you because you will have someone to squeeze a boil on … Read more
Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the nephew instead. Application … Read more
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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.
