Ateyera mariva murutsva haachatyi mhapa kusviba.

Definitions

mhapa: posterior skin wear.

rutsva: area of burnt grass

riva: trap with a falling flat stone, for catching small animals

Translation

One who sets stone traps in burnt grass is not afraid of blackening his (posterior) skin wear.

Inspiration

When setting a stone trap, one will most likely sit on the ground while doing so.  In burnt grass, the backside becomes soiled with ash as a result.

Application

This proverb teaches that when undertaking a difficult task, one should not be deterred by minor inconveniences or what others might think. It also emphasizes being prepared to face the natural consequences of one’s actions.

Similar Proverbs

1. Afa haachatyi kuora.

2. Agara murutsva haatyi kusviba magaro.

3. Apinda murutsva anosviba tsoka.

4. Chirega kutya kununa iwe wakasasikwa.

5. Hapana munwe unoiswa mukanwa, ukabuda usina mate.

6. Usatya ngwena, iwo makumbo ari mudziva.