Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
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.
Translation A pumpkin growing near the roadside invites trouble. Application Publicly noticeable wealth or income could cause one to be … Read more
Translation Today it is on me, tomorrow it will be on you. Application One who is unfeeling towards the misfortunes … Read more
Translation Today is not tomorrow. Application Things change with time. What is there today might not be there tomorrow. Similar … Read more
Definitions mapuruuru: tadpoles kondo: hammerkop (a medium-sized wading bird) tandavara: sprawl (in a relaxed or lazy way) Translation The tadpoles … Read more
Definitions nhava: woven bag benzi: fool Translation A fool’s woven bag does not last long. Application This proverb is used … Read more
Word Definitions bakwa: woodpile Translation A pregnancy is like a woodpile, it harbours snakes and rats. Application Even good respectable … Read more
Definitions nhamburirwa: something that is toiled/ suffered for. riva: stone trap Translation The stomach is worked hard for, as even … 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.
