Tsumo

The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.

Ane ganda ane nyama, hazvienzani neakabata hwowa.

Definitions hwowa: mushroom Translation One with animal skin (for relish) has meat, and is better than one who has mushrooms. … Read more

Ane mombe yake anoziva makumiro ayo.

Word definitions kuma: low Translation The owner of a cow knows how it lows. Application One who is well acquainted … Read more

Anokuti rima ati udye.

Translation He who tells you to work the land wants you to have food. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily … Read more

Anonyumwa bere kurira ndouya akazora manda.

Word definitions manda: animal fat (unmelted) Translation One who is affected by a hyena’s howling is one who has smeared … Read more

Anoti chengeta mwana wako, anoti ugozotuma hako.

Translation He who tells you to raise your child wants you to have someone to send on errands. Application Sometimes … Read more

Apinda murutsva anosviba tsoka.

Definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass Translation One who passes through burnt veld will get dirty feet. Application One who … Read more

Apo mwoyo ungoda, gwanza harisviki.

Word Definitions gwanza: path through tress Translation The path does not reach where the heart longs to be. Application Sometimes … Read more

Apunyaira haashayi misodzi.

Translation One who is emotionally upset and on the verge of crying will not lack tears. Application If you persevere … Read more

Aramba ukama apa huku yangu kurarama.

Translation My fowl gets to live longer when one cuts ties with me. Inspiration It is customary among the Shona … Read more

Aramba ura hwehamba aramba nemuto wacho.

Translation One who has refused the intestines of a tortoise, has also refused the gravy. Application A relative or friend … Read more

Areva vi, ati idi ribude.

Definitions mavi: evil idi: truth Translation He who has spoken of the evil has caused the truth to be revealed. … Read more

Ashunya arwa.

Translation He who has pinched has fought. Application Be thankful for every bit of help, however small, for it still … Read more

Ateyera mariva murutsva haachatyi kusviba magaro.

Definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass riva: trap with a falling flat stone, for catching small animals Translation One who … Read more

Atora chake haabvunzwi.

Translation One should not be questioned for taking away what’s theirs. Application One who is in possession of something that … Read more

Atora chake haateverwi.

Translation Do not go after one who has taken away what belongs to them. Application One who is in possession … Read more

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    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.

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