Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Word Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriage age Translation The womb of a woman … Read more
Translation The thorny path is the one that leads to chieftainship. Application The harder the work, the greater the reward. … Read more
Translation An elephant is not overburdened by its tusks. Application Nobody will resent bearing a burden resulting from something that … Read more
Word definitions mutupo: totem animal, which one abstains from eating machikichori: pleasant tasting food Translation Elephant meat is taboo in … Read more
Translation The elephant ignored advice and ended up growing tusks through the mouth. Application A person who ignores advice usually … Read more
Translation Bit by bit (what has been done), cannot be undone. Application Slow progress is still progress.
Translation The path does not reach where the heart longs to be. Application Sometimes the things we long for the … Read more
Translation You servant, take heed of the advice given to you master’s son. Inspiration While serving the king a servant … Read more
Translation The world is changeable, it changes. Application Things change with time. What is there today might not be there … Read more
Definitions pereka: return something vende: gap (commonly used to refer to gap between teeth) Translation Return other people’s property whole. … Read more
Word definitions pinda: beer made from re-soaked strainings mhunga: millet Translation Beer made from re-soaked strainings does not use up … Read more
Translation We do not fight over the first, but the second. Application People are usually willing to forgive when wronged … Read more
Translation Better wait for (the eggs to hatch to) birds so you can have a stew instead of just eggs. … Read more
Translation Do not ask whether the meat is roasted when you can clearly see it’s a stew. Application Some things … Read more
Translation Let them be; we will inform them when they try to find a way around the mountain Application When … 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.
