Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions guma (plural: makuma): projecting forehead Translation Baboons laugh at each other’s foreheads. Application People often notice and criticise faults in others while overlooking their own. It is used when … Read more
Word definitions mhanje: barren woman natsira: Do right by. Please. pwere: children Manatsirapwere: pleaser of children Translation Only a barren woman believes they can please a child. Application It is … Read more
Translation Too much speed breeds delay. Application Trying to do something too quickly sometimes results in it taking much longer.
Translation Winking in the dark is just straining the forehead unnecessarily. Application There is no point in doing something directed at someone who will never realise or be affected by … Read more
Word definitions manga: pumpkin parira: give away Translation A white pumpkin gives away where the dark one lies. Inspiration for proverb A white pumpkin is clearly visible because of its … Read more
Translation Those who have no pots have an abundance of pumpkins. Application Good things evade those who need them, and are presented to those who are blind to, or have … Read more
Word definitions manomano: deceit Translation When a witch who is wearing a snake round their waist panics at the sight of a lizard, it is a mere act of deceit. … Read more
Word Definitions mapudzi: a squash plant variety hari: earthenware pot Translation Those who have no pots have an abundance of squashes. Inspiration In olden days, earthenware pots were used for … Read more
Translation Omens appear first. Application Odd occurrences foretell that something bad will happen.
Word definitions rarira: eat evening meal mapapata: skeletal remains, generally of an animal mhashu: locust Translation A locust is just a titbit and nowhere near enough for a hyena’s evening … Read more
Want to learn Shona culture and language?
Sign up for one of our courses and start learning.
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.
