Tsumo

Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.

Murume akanaka asiri wako.

Translation A husband is good when he isn’t yours. Application Things that belong to others always seem better or more attractive than what one has, although they may not be. … Read more

Mutoro unorema wasvika.

Translation The load becomes heaviest just as you reach the end. Application Challenges often feel most intense just before a breakthrough or completion.

Mutumwa haana mbonje.

Word definitions mbonje: wound resulting from being hit Translation A messenger shouldn’t be injured. Application Someone sent with a message is in no way responsible for what the message says. … Read more

Muvhimi haatyi mumwe.

Translation A hunter does not fear another. Application One in pursuit of something should not be intimidated  by the presence of a rival or competitor.

Mvura yateuka haichagoni kuorerwa.

Translation Spilt water cannot be gathered up again. Application It is pointless dwelling on things that have passed and cannot be changed. Similar Proverbs 1. Chapfuura chaenda, mvura haiorerwi.

Mwana asingacheme anofira mumbereko.

Definitions mbereko: baby carrier in which a child is carried on a person’s back Translation A child who does not cry while on their mother’s back will die quietly. Inspiration … Read more

Mwana chingwarire haapunyutsi mbeva.

Translation A clever child does not let a mouse get away. Inspiration The hunting and eating of mice is very common in some traditional communities in Zimbabwe. Application One who … Read more

Mwana ijira rinofukwa nevanhu ose.

Translation A child is a blanket that is shared by everybody. Application Every child is everyone’s child. A child has a duty towards not only the immediate family but also … Read more

Mwana muduku kubvuma rwendo, rwake ruri mukati.

Translation A child accepts an errand that stands to benefit them. Inspiration Children generally dislike chores and running errands. A child will unhesitatingly agree to an errand that helps them … Read more

Mwana washe muranda kumwe.

Word definitions muranda: servant ishe: chief Translation Outside his father’s territory, the son of  a chief is a servant. Application When one is outside the boundaries of their authority or … Read more

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