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

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

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

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

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

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

Translation He who has pinched has fought. Application A small contribution to an initiative still counts for something. Similar Proverbs … Read more

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

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

Word definitions muredzi: One who entrusts another with a child’s care Translation A mother, unlike the father, is the true … Read more

Translation Give a big hoe to a farmer; a lazy man will fall asleep with it. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona … Read more

Translation A hoe tells no lies. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily on agriculture. The hoe was thus an important … Read more

Translation Even though a fool, silence will get you honoured as wise. Application Sometimes it is wiser to say nothing.

Word definitions mapapata: remains – scattered bones, generally of an animal. Translation The hyena might be so cowardly, but how … Read more

Translation A baboon might be ugly, but it doe not feed on the carcass of an animal that it found … Read more