Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Translation Raise a dog on milk, and tomorrow it may bite you. Application Someone you help or nurture today, especially when they are in need, may betray or turn against … Read more
Translation Why say something, even looking alone says something. Application A lot can be said just by looking at someone. Similar Proverbs Kutaura ngekunei, kunangisa kutaurawo.
Definitions gombo: New agricultural land. Virgin soil. Translation One succeeds in farming four pieces of virgin land when they haven’t had any disturbances. Application A person will succeed in finishing … Read more
Translation Even though bugs may bite, you should remain in the house; small troubles lead to bigger ones. Application People should resolve disagreements among themselves because getting others involved might … Read more
Word definitions ndoro: shell-like white ornament (or real shell) worn generally on chest (of great antiquity, now associated with chieftainships and with those having magical powers) muranda: servant/ subject of … 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 much ground. Application Be thankful … Read more
Definitions mano: artfulness. ingenuity Translation A plate lacks ingenuity; it doesn’t eat the food served to it. Application A person who fails to take advantage of opportunities presented to them … Read more
Definitions jedye: bullfrog takunya: flick away Translation Flicking away a bullfrog is helping it cross over. Application Some things seem like disturbances when said or done, only for the end … Read more
Word definitions sanhu: axe ruzhowa: line of branches laid around an area as fencing Translation Chopping off branches for making a fence that will bar snakes is nothing more than … Read more
Definitions cherima: something that comes from the dark; something that appears unexpectedly or from an unknown source. Translation To give thanks for something that came out of the dark, is … 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.
