Tsumo

Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.

Kuvaka zvitumba vaka zviviri, chimwe kutsva unodzamba nechimwe.

Word Definitions chitumba: small makeshift hut dzamba: take shelter Translation Make two shelters instead of one so that when one catches fire you take shelter in the other. Application Having … Read more

Kuvaraidza nguva, kuteya nzou neriva.

Word definitions riva: trap with a falling flat stone for catching small animals Translation Trying to capture an elephant with a stone trap is merely whiling away the hours. Inspiration … Read more

Kuve ganda, handi kuve nyama.

Translation Skin is not meat. Application Being related to someone in authority should not lead one to believe they possess the same authority  

Kuverenga mombe nedzisipo, kuverenga nemiswe.

Translation When counting cattle, counting those that are elsewhere is counting tails as well. Inspiration In communities that practise livestock herding, sometimes animals go missing as they are pastured. It … Read more

Kuvhunduka chati kwatara hunge une katurikwa.

Word definitions katurikwa: Something that is hanging, or placed on top of another. kwatara: An ideophone of falling to the ground. Translation One who feels uneasy about what has dropped … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, kwakatorambwa nevaroyi.

Translation It is good when there are many people, witches even detest it. Application A wide network of personal relationships provides a good measure of security. Similar Proverbs 1. Kuwanda … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, mota yokumusana ungotumburwa.

Translation It is good when there are many of you because you will have someone to squeeze a boil on your back. Application A wide network of personal relationships provides … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, museve wakapotera pamuzukuru.

Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the nephew instead. Application A wide network of personal relationships provides a good measure … Read more

Kuwanda huuya, museve wakapotera pamwanasikana.

Translation It is good when there are many people; an arrow (fired by the enemy) hit the daughter instead. Application A wide network of personal relationships provides a good measure … Read more

Kuzamura chaiko ndokwomudoko, kwomukuru kunoreva kudya.

Word definitions zamura: yawn Translation Only a youngster’s yawn is sincere, that of an adult signals a desire for food. Inspiration Yawning is mostly involuntary, and sometimes serves a social … Read more

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