Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Word definitions n’anga: traditional healer nyoro: gentle Translation A gentle healer will leave wounds (or sores) to rot. Inspiration A … Read more
Translation Leave a place on good terms because you are headed into the night. Inspiration One can hardly see what’s … Read more
Translation There is no wisdom in regret. Application Take heed of advice before it is too late.
Word definitions ndarira: Brass leg ornament Translation One ankle bracelet does not rattle. Application A huge or demanding task is … Read more
Definitions chiropa: liver wabaya: slaughterer Translation It is one who has slaughtered (a beast), who says the liver is not … Read more
Word definitions nhengu: drongo bird zizi: owl Translation A child could be fooled into believing that a drongo bird is … Read more
Definitions ndima: Portion of field allotted to one for weeding. Piece of work. Translation A piece of work once started … Read more
Translation Many have had to spend the night on the road because of hastiness. Application Trying to do something too … Read more
Translation Whatever I can get is good enough, says the one who has no dogs. Inspiration Traditional hunting is characterized … Read more
Translation Fair enough — like a dark-skinned person’s bath. Application The proverb acknowledges effort or completion, while subtly suggesting that … Read more
Definitions ndongwe: grasshoper nhikiti: pumpkin seeds Translation Locust meat is meat nonetheless, and better than having pumpkin seeds as a … Read more
Translation A drum makes the sound, ‘my my.’ Inspiration for proverb ‘Pangu is a form of the word ‘my,’ and … Read more
Word definitions dzana: dance murirakamwe: time of the first cockcrow Translation The sound of a drum heard before daylight is … Read more
Definitions hwenyeri: betrayer Translation White attire is a betrayer. Application Behavior that stands out gives away a person. If someone … Read more
Translation One misfortune does not fear another. Application Sometimes misfortunes occur one after another, leaving one helpless.
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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.
