Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
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
Translation A fruit from the forest cannot be relied upon. Application One can only firmly rely on what is theirs, and not that which is open to everyone. For example, … Read more
Word definitions mudzimu: ancestral spirit Translation An ancestral spirit to whom ritual offerings are made at night is that of a witch. Inspiration Vadzimu are an integral part of indigenous … Read more
Translation The ancestral spirit that inflicted your wound has exposed you to being fed on by flies. Inspiration Vadzimu are an integral part of indigenous religion. It is believed that … Read more
Word Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriageable age mudzimu: ancestral spirit Translation It’s her ancestral spirits, for an old maid to be divorced after … Read more
Definitions mwena: burrow Translation Pleasure is like a burrow; if you follow it, it will come to an end. Application Even the most delightful pleasures or happy times have limits, … Read more
Definitions kondo: Hammerkop. This is a wading bird which has a crest that looks like a backward projection of the head. dzudzura: smear (walls) dumba: shelter matope: mud Translation Plastering … 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.
