Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
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
Translation It is someone else’s wrongdoing (today), tomorrow it could be yours. Application One who is unfeeling towards the misfortunes of others should know that the same could also happen … Read more
Definitions ronda: follow the scent or track of an animal Translation An animal that has not left a trail of blood cannot be tracked. Application One cannot continue to pursue … Read more
Translation Fingers are all different. Application Each and every individual is unique. No individuals can be exactly alike in all respects.
Word definitions zhezhekedza: Handle object carefully to keep it from falling apart. muzhezhekedzwa: Something that shows weakness or frailty e.g. cracked vessel. sukudza: Continue to exist. Persist. Translation Things that … Read more
Word definitions pingudza: Tame. Train (oxen). Translation An ox cannot be trained by one person. Inspiration In traditional agricultural practices, mature cattle, generally 4 years of age or older, are … Read more
Translation A passing ox does not wipe out the pasture. Application A visitor does not stay for good. Hospitality will not exhaust one’s supplies. The general message is to discourage … Read more
Definitions nzuma: hornless beast Translation When a hornless beast lies down early in the morning, it is pondering what happened to its horns. Application This proverb describes a person who … 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.
