Tsumo

The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.

Chawawana batisisa, mudzimu haupi kaviri.

Definitions mudzimu: ancestral spirit Translation Secure whatever you acquire, because favour from the ancestors comes only once. Inspiration Vadzimu are an … Read more

Chawira hama chapfuura, mangwana chinewe.

Translation What has befallen a relative is over; tomorrow it will be your turn. Application One who is unfeeling towards … Read more

Chaza hachirambwi; munhu haangaregeri mhene inokamhina.

Word Definitions chaza: old form of saying chauya. mhene: steenbok kamhina: limp Translation What has come to one cannot be … Read more

Chegudza chiri kumuruki.

Word Definitions gudza: Blanket woven from bark-fibre. Translation It is up to the weaver to determine what happens to the … Read more

Chembere mukadzi, hazvienzani nokurara mugota.

Definitions chembere: old woman gota: sleeping quarters for unmarried men Translation An old woman is a wife enough to qualify … Read more

Chembere ndeyeshumba, yemombe inodyiwa nyama.

Translation A lion could be referred to as old, not an ox which could be slaughtered for meat. Application An … Read more

Chenga ose manhanga, hapana risina mhodzi.

Word Definitions chenga: value. regard as beneficial. Translation There is not a pumpkin without seeds, so value them all. Inspiration … Read more

Chibage chinowanda kuna vasina meno.

Translation Those who have no teeth have an abundance of maize. Application Good things evade those who need them, and … Read more

Chidamwoyo, hamba yakada makwati.

Translation It is what the heart wants; the tortoise chose to have a shell. Application Each person will do as … Read more

Chidamwoyo, zamu kumera pambabvu.

Translation It is what the heart wants; the breast chose to grow on the ribs. Application Each person will do … Read more

Chidziva chakadzikama ndicho chinogara ngwena.

Translation It is the still pool that is home to crocodiles. Application Quiet individuals who appear mild and timid often … Read more

Chigare chenda, kudya akaitakura.

Definitions chigare: disloyalty inda: louse Translation A louse is so disloyal, it feeds on the one that carries it. Inspiration … Read more

Chikomo chiremera kune vari kure, vari pedyo vanotamba nacho.

Translation A mountain commands awe from those far away, but those who are near treat it lightly. Application People who … Read more

Chikomo shata divi, rimwe ritambire pwere.

Word definitions divi: side Translation Hill, be unattractive on one side so that children may play at the other. Inspiration … Read more

Chikuni chinoda mukuchidziri.

Definitions chikuni: short piece of firewood mukuchidziri: stoker Translation A piece of firewood needs a stoker (to hold it and … Read more

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    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.

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