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 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
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
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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.
