Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Word definitions pingudza: Tame. Train (oxen). Translation An ox cannot be trained by one person. Inspiration In traditional agricultural practices, … Read more
Translation A passing ox does not wipe out the pasture. Application A visitor does not stay for good. Hospitality will … Read more
Word definitions ronza: entrust livestock to another’s care Translation Remember to watch the path when milking a cow entrusted to … Read more
Word definitions ndomba: be extremely well-cooked gapu: pot for cooking side dish Translation It is slow cooking that gets food … Read more
Word Definitions gurwe: large edible sand cricket mwena: hole. burrow mudimbudziri: one who takes a shortcut mutevedzeri: one who follows … Read more
Translation A fruit from the forest cannot be relied upon. Application One can only firmly rely on what is theirs, … Read more
Word definitions mudzimu: ancestral spirit Translation An ancestral spirit to whom ritual offerings are made at night is that of … Read more
Translation The ancestral spirit that inflicted your wound has exposed you to being fed on by flies. Inspiration Vadzimu are … Read more
Word Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriageable age mudzimu: ancestral spirit Translation It’s her … Read more
Definitions kondo: Hammerkop. This is a wading bird which has a crest that looks like a backward projection of the … Read more
Translation Only someone without a child believes they can discipline one. Application It is unwise to judge someone who is … Read more
Translation A wife is good/ attractive when she is another’s. Application Things that belong to others always seem better or … Read more
Definitions pfunde: sorghum plant hanga: guinea-fowl Translation A senior is senior; a guinea fowl does not perch on a sorghum … Read more
Word Definitions mapfeni: baboons ndimo: it’s through it (1) ndimo: agricultural land (2) Translation It is through chasing baboons that … Read more
Translation One who is rebuked for failing to work is being offered chieftaincy. Application Sometimes people will encourage someone to … 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.
