Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
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
Word definitions ronza: entrust livestock to another’s care Translation Remember to watch the path when milking a cow entrusted to you. Inspiration When entrusted with the care of another’s livestock, … Read more
Word definitions ndomba: be extremely well-cooked gapu: pot for cooking side dish Translation It is slow cooking that gets food well-cooked. Application Slow and calculated work is more fruitful than … Read more
Translation One who is good with proverbs gets what he wants. Application One who is convincing and persuasive has a better chance of achieving what he desires.
Word Definitions gurwe: large edible sand cricket mwena: hole. burrow mudimbudziri: one who takes a shortcut mutevedzeri: one who follows Translation One who successfully digs for crickets follows the hole, … 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.
