Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
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 The one who grinds the grain tires, yet the sadza is eaten by those who were sitting. Application Sometimes … 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
Definitions pakata: carry (under arm, at the side) Translation When asked to carry them (drums), it does not mean you … Read more
Word Definitions godzi: hawk Translation A hawk will collect dirt if it misses. Inspiration Hawks drop from the sky hurtling … Read more
Word Definitions butu: Husk or bran of bulrush millet or sorghum. Husk of maize grain. mukonya: Rudeness of someone who … Read more
Translation One refuses the red when they have sight of the white. Application By refusing to accept or keep something … Read more
Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriage age mhandara: young girl of marriageable age Translation … Read more
Word definitions chidembo: skunk Translation Turning down skunk meat means you have rabbit meat. Inspiration Skunks are known for their … 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.
