Archives: Tsumo

Translation It’s by choice — frying roundnuts in your hand. Application There is little sympathy for one who knowingly exposes himself to harm. Similar Proverbs … Read more

Definitions chitiyo: chick sosodzwa: be hatched out Translation What has been hatched out is now a chick. Application Once someone has prepared themselves or reached … Read more

Translation That which has hatched is now a bird. Application Once someone has prepared themselves or reached a stage of capability, they should take initiative … Read more

Definitions sesedza: help someone to walk tamanda: crawl on all fours hamba: move Translation Helping someone to walk is in itself moving; crawling won’t cover … Read more

Definitions dembo: striped polecat chiveza: anal gland of polecat, or offensive smell from the same. Translation If you’ve skinned a polecat, why fear its stench? … Read more

Translation One who borrows a knife is prepared to give the owner some meat. Application This proverb teaches reciprocity and gratitude. It reminds us that … Read more

Translation To put up a roof, one requires the help of others. Application Some tasks require teamwork, and one will not succeed on their own.

Definitions hwanja: knobkerrie vhika: ward off a blow Translation What can be warded off is a knobkerrie; a word cannot be warded off. Application Words, … Read more

Translation Someone who has washed their hands does not need another person to scoop their food for them. Application Once someone has prepared themselves or … Read more

Translation When the master eats, the servants also eat. Application When someone in a position of responsibility succeeds, those under their care or authority often … Read more