Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Word Definitions nyachide: favourite (person) Translation The beloved’s womb produces a thief and a witch. Application Even good respectable parents sometimes … Read more
Definitions uriri: Bed. Part of floor on which people sleep. mbeva: edible mouse or small rat Translation You maintain your … Read more
Translation A farmer eats while standing, not seated. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily on agriculture. Farming was therefore highly … Read more
Definitions nguo: Clothing. Commonly used in reference to animal skins used as clothing. Translation A poor man never kills an … Read more
Translation It is the hands that give, not the mouth. Application It is easy to say that one can or … Read more
Translation A witch does not witch her husband. Application However unpleasant someone may be, they will be good to those … Read more
Word definitions muroyi: person who practices witchcraft Translation A witch is human and will, like everyone else, cry when hurt. … Read more
Translation Practise your witchcraft far from those around you; that way they will grieve and bury you when you die. … Read more
Translation A husband is good when he isn’t yours. Application Things that belong to others always seem better or more … Read more
Translation The load becomes heaviest just as you reach the end. Application Challenges often feel most intense just before a … Read more
Word definitions mbonje: wound resulting from being hit Translation A messenger shouldn’t be injured. Application Someone sent with a message … Read more
Translation A hunter does not fear another. Application One in pursuit of something should not be intimidated by the presence … Read more
Translation Spilt water cannot be gathered up again. Application It is pointless dwelling on things that have passed and cannot … Read more
Definitions mbereko: baby carrier in which a child is carried on a person’s back Translation A child who does not … Read more
Translation A clever child does not let a mouse get away. Inspiration The hunting and eating of mice is very … 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.
