Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Definitions guma (plural: makuma): projecting forehead Translation Baboons laugh at each other’s foreheads. Application People often notice and criticise faults … Read more
Word definitions mhanje: barren woman natsira: Do right by. Please. pwere: children Manatsirapwere: pleaser of children Translation Only a barren … Read more
Translation Too much speed breeds delay. Application Trying to do something too quickly sometimes results in it taking much longer.
Translation Winking in the dark is just straining the forehead unnecessarily. Application There is no point in doing something directed … Read more
Word definitions manga: pumpkin parira: give away Translation A white pumpkin gives away where the dark one lies. Inspiration for … Read more
Translation Those who have no pots have an abundance of pumpkins. Application Good things evade those who need them, and … Read more
Word definitions manomano: deceit Translation When a witch who is wearing a snake round their waist panics at the sight … Read more
Word Definitions mapudzi: a squash plant variety hari: earthenware pot Translation Those who have no pots have an abundance of … Read more
Translation Omens appear first. Application Odd occurrences foretell that something bad will happen.
Word definitions rarira: eat evening meal mapapata: skeletal remains, generally of an animal mhashu: locust Translation A locust is just … Read more
Translation A child crying from hunger will not be quietened by the fact that they ate in the past. Inspiration … Read more
Translation Moving huge logs is worth a try; you might leave one that is already in decay. Application Some tasks … Read more
Translation Moving huge logs is worth a try; you might leave one that has no roots. Application Some tasks or … Read more
Translation Moving huge logs is worth a try; you might leave one that has been damaged by termites. Application Some … Read more
Translation Quarrels started off as conversations. Application This proverb cautions people to be careful in their choice of words. Sometimes … 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.
