Tsumo

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

Hari haiviri isina mukuchidziri.

Word definitions mukuchidziri: One who stokes up a fire Translation (Contents of) A pot will not boil without someone to … Read more

Hari mbiri dzinovirirana hadzina mabikiro.

Translation Two pots (with contents) that boil at the same time cannot be simultaneously attended to. Application One who tries … Read more

Hatidzori tsvimbo nokuti gudo rasvisa usu.

Word definitions svisa: hide usu: face Translation We will not desist from hitting a baboon simply because it has covered … Read more

Heya baravara ndiwo mugariro, kutuka mwene wechisvo ndiwo mano?

Word definitions baravara: clean-shaven head chisvo: shaving blade mano: brilliance. cleverness Translation Do you honestly think it is wise to … Read more

Hufana nyina, gunguo rakatodza tateguru.

Definitions nyina: female (human or animal) that is suckling Translation It is a likeness to the mother, the crow took … Read more

Hukwana inodya ndeiri pana mai.

Translation The chick that feeds is the one closest to the mother. Inspiration Chicks always depend on their mother for … Read more

Hurudza inofa ichinzi inodya.

Word definitions hurudza: outstanding farmer Translation An outstanding farmer will starve to death, as everyone else believes he has plenty. … Read more

Idya zvose; gudo harina nhunzi.

Translation Eat everything; a baboon does not mind flies. Application One should not discriminate against someone because they regard them … Read more

Igangaidza mukwenyi, mhezi yavavira mudumbu.

Definitions gangaidza: bewilder or confuse mhezi: aggressive skin eruption Translation It is bewildering for one to have an itch in … Read more

Igangaidza vavigi, kusvunura kwemufi.

Definitions gangaidza: bewilder or confuse Translation A corpse that opens its eyes bewilders the grave-diggers. Application Some stressful/ difficult situations … Read more

Imbwa hora haihukuri nhando.

Word definitions hora: aged dog nhando: pointlessly Translation An aged dog does not bark pointlessly. Application Older people are more … Read more

Imbwa ine hona haihukuri.

Word definitions hona: big bone Translation A dog with a bone (in its mouth)  does not bark. Application One who … Read more

Imbwa inoba mazai, mangwana inodya huku.

Translation A dog that steals eggs will one day eat the chickens. Application Bad behaviour that is left unchecked will … Read more

Imbwa inoruma vaenzi, mangwana icharuma vatenzi.

Translation A dog that bites visitors will one day bite its master. Application Bad behavior that is left unchecked will … Read more

Imbwa ivete haimutsirwi sadza.

Translation A sleeping dog should not be roused for food. Application Avoid interfering in a situation that is currently causing … 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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