Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
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
Translation The crow laughs at the owl (the owl’s beak), yet its beak is like a calabash. Application People often notice and criticise faults in others while overlooking their own. … Read more
Word definitions gunguo: crow hwakumukwaku: hopping museve: arrow Translation The crow decided it would not wait for the arrow, and hopped to its escape. Inspiration Crows are known to walk … Read more
Word definitions guyu (onde): fig Translation While a fig might appear ripe and juicy from the outside, the inside is full of ants. Inspiration The fig fruit ripens from pale … Read more
Definitions gwara: coward mbonje: scar Translation A coward has no scar. Inspiration Cowards avoid fights and as a result, are spared from injuries. Application Sometimes it is better to retreat … Read more
Translation A tortoise is not overburdened by its shell. Application Nobody will resent bearing a burden resulting from something that either belongs to them, or is their responsibility. Similar Proverbs … Read more
Translation There is no house without a rat. Application Every place or community will have something or someone that is less than desirable. Similar Proverbs 1. Hapana mvura isina chura.
Translation No animal grazes on behalf of one that is lying down. Application There are times when we must take initiative and act on our own to succeed, rather than … 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.
