Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Word definitions rukukwe: sleeping mat (woven with reeds) tsapata: worn-out sleeping mat Translation A worn-out mat is better than sleeping … Read more
Definitions tsotsonyo: ideophone of tapping tiwu: ideophone of striking a heavy blow Translation A light tap gave birth to a … Read more
Word definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass (from veld fire) Translation A hare does not escape a veld fire twice. … Read more
Translation A hare that keeps its ears down is caught by dogs, while the one that keeps them up stays … Read more
Translation Be sure to have your own ideas when you seek advice from others. Application The meaning of this proverb … Read more
Translation If you sing a song of misery, you are ruined. Application One who is suffering should refrain from repeatedly … Read more
Definitions mahobi: The hollow spaces below projecting eyebrows (e.g. of baboon) mubvumbi: Thin shower Translation If you see a baboon … Read more
Translation The one who urges you to handle a hoe gives you riches. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily on … Read more
Definitions hwakumukwaku: hopping Inspiration Life is a hopping affair, no frog hops for another. Application People are naturally inclined to … Read more
Definitions kuwe: grey-lourie. go-away bird hanga: guinea fowl Translation Guinea fowls will come, so save your knobkerries rather than waste … Read more
Translation Never dispose of the old simply because you have seen something new. Application Never be excited over something new … Read more
Definitions ngwena: crocodile dziva: pool (in river) Translation No point being afraid of crocodiles when your feet are already in … Read more
Definitions dova: dew Translation Chieftainship is like dew, it evaporates. Application When in a position of authority one should always remember … Read more
Definitions mhute: fog Translation Chieftainship is fog that vanishes when the sun has risen. Application When in a position of … Read more
Definitions kuva: come to an end (especially of fruit on tree) Translation Chieftainship is like a wild loquat tree, its … 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.
