Tsumo
The Shona are exceedingly rich in proverbs. Proverbs are a cherished and interesting part of their oral literature.
Definitions dzingidzi: carpenter bee chomudzimu: From the ancestors. This is an expression meaning that which is outside one’s control. Translation … Read more
Translation A crocodile infested lake is one in which you swim only once; if you go for it again, this … Read more
Definitions zamba: bask bako: cave Translation A lizard that basks in the sun knows there is a cave nearby. Inspiration Lizards … Read more
Definitions svuura: peel. strip off. gavi: strip of bark Translation The manner in which the bark is stripped determines its … Read more
Word definitions mukombe: hollowed out gourd with a long handle used for drinking gengezha: reference to an old/ cracked mukombe … Read more
Word definitions gomba: adulterer – lover of married woman Translation The lover of a married woman has no child. Application … Read more
Definitions mwaukira: break/ tear apart Translation A big mountain leveled out through gradual wear. Application Even tasks that seem impossible … Read more
Definitions gondo: Eagle. Large bird of prey. engerera: Circle purposefully zumbu: Fowl run Translation When an eagle keeps circling, it … Read more
Translation This (year) is the year. Application There’s always a chance that one’s fortunes could change. Opportunities might never come … Read more
Translation The year a lazy person finally decides to till the land, the rains won’t come. Application Sometimes, when a … Read more
Translation One cannot afford to just sulk and watch as a baboon enters their field. Inspiration for proverb Baboons are … Read more
Word definitions manainai: Astonishing circumstance Translation A baboon escaped by dodging from place to place. Application In pursuit of goals … Read more
Word Definitions gunde: stalk ipwa: sugarcane dura: granary Translation The stalk of sugarcane is tasty but is never stored away … Read more
Translation The crow laughs at the owl (the owl’s beak), yet its beak is like a calabash. Application People often … Read more
Word definitions gunguo: crow hwakumukwaku: hopping museve: arrow Translation The crow decided it would not wait for the arrow, and … Read more
Looking for a Shona story to read?
Enrich your child's Shona learning journey with our Shona Story Library.
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.
