Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions mufenje: Small to medium sized deciduous tree. nyina: female (human or animal) that is suckling Translation A goat feeds on the mufenje tree just like its mother. Inspiration Goats … Read more
Definitions mufuta: Shrub which is grown for the oil-rich seeds and as a hedge. Jatropha. Translation A goat climbs (over) the mufuta (hedge) just like all goats do. Inspiration While goats … Read more
Definitions mbwende: coward vanga: 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 Looking on causes laziness, but the actual doing will not take a whole day. Application Sometimes work is actually less demanding than it appears.
Definitions mhaka: wrondgoing/ fault/ misdeed dongo: an abandoned homestead / deserted village Translation Wrongdoing is never forgotten. Application In Shona culture, a dongo symbolizes neglect, abandonment, and emptiness. It is … Read more
Word definitions mhanje: barren woman Translation Being a barren childless woman does not make one an old woman. Application One should be careful not to underestimate things because of conclusions … Read more
Translation Roads that branch off began as one. Application This proverb cautions people to be careful in their choice of words. Sometimes unending disputes are a result of careless words … Read more
Definitions zhumu: tuft of hair on head Translation A duiker is one of a species, it bears a child with a tuft of hair on its head. Inspiration The common … Read more
Definitions bakatwa: Big knife (used as weapon; carried in sheath) pakatira: Put under arm Translation A wrongdoing is like a knife; you carry it under your arm wherever you go. … Read more
Definitions ronda: Follow a scent or spoor. Track. honye: Worm. Maggot Translation A crime is tracked; no wrongdoing ever ends up full of maggots. Application The proverb likens wrongdoing to … 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.
