Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Translation A dog will not forget the place at which it fed. Application When in need, one is more likely to turn to those who were of help to him … Read more
Definitions bvupa: bone Translation It’s often the bad dog that gets the good bone. Application Sometimes, those who seem least capable are the ones who end up in important positions. … Read more
Definitions mhashu: locust Translation It is a sick man’s locust that is roasted while clutched by the leg. Application When someone who has little gains something, they hold on to … Read more
Word Definitions ndemo: resistance to guidance, unruliness kokota: to clean out last remnants of something in a vessel Translation A thirsty man might choose to be stubborn and insist on … Read more
Word Definitions tsvimborume: bachelor who has passed the age of marrying duri: wooden mortar (in which grain pounded) Translation Some things, like a senior bachelor carving a mortar as if … Read more
Definitions musungo: snare riva: trap with a falling flat stone, for catching small animals Translation One (an animal) that cries is the one caught in a snare; the one caught … Read more
Translation The loudmouth’s (dog), and not that of the quiet man, is the hunter. Application Some people sing their own praises to the point of giving the impression that they … Read more
Translation A chief is the people. Application Those in authority should always bear in mind that their strength and influence depends on the number of people that follow them. They … Read more
Definitions makunguo: crows tsvimbo: clubs Translation It is a waste to throw clubs at crows when (edible) birds may still show up. Application When faced with competing demands, one should consider … Read more
Translation When a young man elopes with a young woman, it implies he has the cattle for the bride price. Application Anyone who sets out to do something big and … Read more
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About Shungu
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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.
