Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions svuura: peel. strip off. gavi: strip of bark Translation The manner in which the bark is stripped determines its form. Inspiration How the bark is peeled determines its features, … Read more
Word definitions mukombe: hollowed out gourd with a long handle used for drinking gengezha: reference to an old/ cracked mukombe demhe: piece of broken gourd Translation An old drinking gourd … Read more
Word definitions gomba: adulterer – lover of married woman Translation The lover of a married woman has no child. Application A man cannot claim to be the father of a … Read more
Definitions mwaukira: break/ tear apart Translation A big mountain leveled out through gradual wear. Application Even tasks that seem impossible to complete can be completed by working gradually.
Definitions gondo: Eagle. Large bird of prey. engerera: Circle purposefully zumbu: Fowl run Translation When an eagle keeps circling, it has seen a fowl run. Application When a person keeps … Read more
Translation This (year) is the year. Application There’s always a chance that one’s fortunes could change. Opportunities might never come again or might come at another point in time./ Live … Read more
Translation The year a lazy person finally decides to till the land, the rains won’t come. Application Sometimes, when a person finally takes initiative after delaying or procrastinating, external conditions … Read more
Translation One cannot afford to just sulk and watch as a baboon enters their field. Inspiration for proverb Baboons are notorious for crop raiding, with maize probably being the most … Read more
Word definitions manainai: Astonishing circumstance Translation A baboon escaped by dodging from place to place. Application In pursuit of goals or survival and faced with failure, one has a better … Read more
Word Definitions gunde: stalk ipwa: sugarcane dura: granary Translation The stalk of sugarcane is tasty but is never stored away in a granary. Inspiration Grain food crops have traditionally been … Read more
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About Shungu
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.
