Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Translation Shame is worse than death Application Sometimes humiliation can be so great that one cannot face others, nor imagine how they will move on from there.
Translation The one who tastes is the one who knows whether the meat is fully cooked. Application The most intimate details of a person’s life, along with their feelings, are … Read more
Translation A land is its people. Application The success of a nation depends on the effort of its people.
Word Definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriage age Translation The womb of a woman (of childbearing age) bore a thief and a witch. Application … Read more
Translation The thorny path is the one that leads to chieftainship. Application The harder the work, the greater the reward.
Word definitions rerwa: be brought up. be provided for. be nurtured. Translation A big ox resulted from being provided for. Application Big things start off small, and with the nurturing … Read more
Definitions karara – to cough up phlegm; a strong, deep cough associated with bringing up mucus. gaka (pl: makaka) – a sleeping bag traditionally made from the intestines of an … Read more
Translation An elephant is not overburdened by its tusks. Application Nobody will resent bearing a burden resulting from something that either belongs to them, or is their responsibility. Similar Proverbs … Read more
Word definitions mutupo: totem animal, which one abstains from eating machikichori: pleasant tasting food Translation Elephant meat is taboo in public, but delicious meat in private. Inspiration The ‘mutupo’ system … Read more
Translation The elephant ignored advice and ended up growing tusks through the mouth. Application A person who ignores advice usually falls into serious trouble. Similar Proverbs 1. Chirambakuudzwa akazoonekwa nembonje … 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.
