Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Definitions mbwende: coward vanga: scar Translation A coward has no scar. Inspiration Cowards avoid fights and as a result, are … Read more
Translation Looking on causes laziness, but the actual doing will not take a whole day. Application Sometimes work is actually … Read more
Definitions mhaka: wrondgoing/ fault/ misdeed dongo: an abandoned homestead / deserted village Translation Wrongdoing is never forgotten. Application In Shona … Read more
Word definitions mhanje: barren woman Translation Being a barren childless woman does not make one an old woman. Application One … Read more
Translation Roads that branch off began as one. Application This proverb cautions people to be careful in their choice of … Read more
Definitions zhumu: tuft of hair on head Translation A duiker is one of a species, it bears a child with … Read more
Definitions bakatwa: Big knife (used as weapon; carried in sheath) pakatira: Put under arm Translation A wrongdoing is like a … Read more
Definitions ronda: Follow a scent or spoor. Track. honye: Worm. Maggot Translation A crime is tracked; no wrongdoing ever ends … Read more
Translation It is someone else’s wrongdoing (today), tomorrow it could be yours. Application One who is unfeeling towards the misfortunes … Read more
Definitions ronda: follow the scent or track of an animal Translation An animal that has not left a trail of … Read more
Translation Fingers are all different. Application Each and every individual is unique. No individuals can be exactly alike in all … Read more
Word definitions zhezhekedza: Handle object carefully to keep it from falling apart. muzhezhekedzwa: Something that shows weakness or frailty e.g. … Read more
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
Definitions nzuma: hornless beast Translation When a hornless beast lies down early in the morning, it is pondering what happened … 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.
