Tsumo

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

Chinozipa chinoregwa, zamu ramai takarirega.

Translation Sometimes we have to give up even the good things, just like we had to give up suckling. Inspiration … Read more

Chinoziva ivhu kuti mwana wembeva anorwara.

Translation Only the soil knows that the young of a mouse is unwell. Application The most intimate details of a … Read more

Chirambakuudzwa akazoonekwa nembonje pahuma.

Definitions mbonje: scar/ head scar Translation He who refused advice was later seen with a head scar. Application A person … Read more

Chirambakuudzwa akazoonekwa neropa kudonha.

Translation He who refused advice was later seen bleeding. Application A person who rejects all advice usually falls into serious … Read more

Chirega kutya kununa iwe wakasasikwa.

Definitions nuna: ooze fat (while roasting) sasikwa: to be dried out over a fire Translation Do not be afraid to … Read more

Chirema ndechina mazano, chinotamba chakazendama kumadziro.

Definitions chirema: a person with a physical disability zendama: to lean against Translation A person with a disability is wise; … Read more

Chirere, mangwana chigozokurerawo.

Translation Raise it well, and it will do the same for you tomorrow. Inspiration Traditionally, the family has an obligation … Read more

Chiri mudundu, chiri muninga.

Definitions ninga: large underground cave. dundu: chest Translation What is in one’s heart is (like something) hidden in an underground … Read more

Chiri mumwoyo, chiri muninga.

Word definitions ninga: Large, deep, dark cave. Translation What is in the heart is in a hidden cave. Inspiration Caves … Read more

Chiri pamuchena, chiri pamawere.

Definitions muchena: poor person mawere: very steep rock face or cliff Translation What is in a poor man’s hands is … Read more

Chiri pamuchena, chiri pamutenure.

Definitions muchena: poor person mutenure: downward slope Translation What is in a poor man’s hands is perched on a slope. … Read more

Chiripo chariuraya, zizi harifi roga nemhepo.

Translation Something must have killed it, an owl doesn’t just die due to the wind. Application When an unusual or … Read more

Chirungurira chirwere, kunyarara unofa nacho.

Word definitions chirungurira: indigestion (heartburn) Translation Indigestion is a disease, and you could die from it if you conceal it. … Read more

Chisi hachieri musi wacharimwa.

Translation The consequences of failing to observe the chisi rest day are not suffered on that very day. Inspiration Chisi … Read more

Chisiri chako rembedza maoko, rega kukungira hata sechako.

Word definitions kungira: roll up hata: head-pad Translation Do not make a head-pad to carry something that does not belong … 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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