Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions chiropa: liver wabaya: slaughterer Translation It is one who has slaughtered (a beast), who says the liver is not suitable to have as relish. Inspiration Traditionally, livestock has been … Read more
Word definitions nhengu: drongo bird zizi: owl Translation A child could be fooled into believing that a drongo bird is an owl. Inspiration An owl is not the same as … Read more
Definitions ndima: Portion of field allotted to one for weeding. Piece of work. Translation A piece of work once started has progressed. Inspiration Many smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe rely on … Read more
Translation Many have had to spend the night on the road because of hastiness. Application Trying to do something too quickly sometimes results in it taking much longer.
Translation Whatever I can get is good enough, says the one who has no dogs. Inspiration Traditional hunting is characterized by village men hunting in teams with dogs. The game … Read more
Translation Fair enough — like a dark-skinned person’s bath. Application The proverb acknowledges effort or completion, while subtly suggesting that the outcome falls short of expectations.
Definitions ndongwe: grasshoper nhikiti: pumpkin seeds Translation Locust meat is meat nonetheless, and better than having pumpkin seeds as a side-dish. Application Something, even if less than the ideal, is … Read more
Translation A drum makes the sound, ‘my my.’ Inspiration for proverb ‘Pangu is a form of the word ‘my,’ and ‘pangu pangu’ is an ideophone of beating a drum. Application … Read more
Word definitions dzana: dance murirakamwe: time of the first cockcrow Translation The sound of a drum heard before daylight is not one to dance to. Application People are usually suspicious … Read more
Definitions hwenyeri: betrayer Translation White attire is a betrayer. Application Behavior that stands out gives away a person. If someone wants to go undetected, they must avoid doing something that … 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.
