Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions mahobi: The hollow spaces below projecting eyebrows (e.g. of baboon) mubvumbi: Thin shower Translation If you see a baboon soaked beneath its heavy brow ridge, know that the drizzle … Read more
Translation The one who urges you to handle a hoe gives you riches. Inspiration Traditionally, the Shona relied primarily on agriculture. The hoe was thus an important tool for working … Read more
Definitions hwakumukwaku: hopping Inspiration Life is a hopping affair, no frog hops for another. Application People are naturally inclined to attend first to their own affairs.
Translation Do not see a dog baring its teeth and think it is smiling at you. Application Sometimes people appear friendly and welcoming on the outside, yet secretly hold resentment … Read more
Definitions nhema: black rhinoceros mapfumo: spears Translation Don’t waste spears on stabbing rhinos when elephants may still show up. Application When faced with competing demands, one should consider where they … Read more
Definitions kuwe: grey-lourie. go-away bird hanga: guinea fowl Translation Guinea fowls will come, so save your knobkerries rather than waste them on grey-louries. Inspiration A bird hunter stands to benefit … Read more
Translation Never dispose of the old simply because you have seen something new. Application Never be excited over something new to the point of discarding what has served you well … Read more
Definitions chitundu: items packed together makakanje: crabs Translation Do not waste time fighting over a pack of crabs when there is one of fish available. Application When faced with competing … Read more
Definitions hwiza: grasshopper Translation Do not go after grasshoppers when hares might still show up. Application When faced with competing demands, one should consider where they stand to benefit more. … Read more
Definitions rutsva: area of burnt grass riva: trap with a falling flat stone, for catching small animals Translation Do not fear getting your trousers dirty when you are setting traps … 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.
