Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions radza: let a field lie fallow Translation One day (of absence) does not fallow a field. Application Missing one day’s work does not wreck what one has set out … Read more
Translation One day does not kill a person. Application Missing one day’s work does not wreck what one has set out to achieve. Similar Proverbs 1. Zuva rimwe hariodzi nyama. … Read more
Word Definitions zuva: day deko: night Translation The day has eyes, and the night has ears. Application Nothing remains hidden forever. Even that which happens in secret, people will eventually … Read more
Word definitions bere: hyena imvi: grey hairs Translation How is it so that an old woman goes missing and a hyena vomits balls of grey hair? Inspiration While hyenas can … Read more
Translation Only a fool knows what tomorrow has in store. Application Do what needs to be done and not put it off for another day, for no one knows what … Read more
Definitions njiva: dove hanga: guinea-fowl Translation What has befallen the dove will befall the guinea-fowl tomorrow. Application One who is unfeeling towards the misfortunes of others should know that the … Read more
Word definitions mimba: pregnancy gosoro: cough Translation What is impossible is impossible, a pregnancy cannot be coughed off. Application Sometimes we just have to accept that something has been unsuccessful, … Read more
Translation One who says a goat has stolen meat, yet there is dog around, should be embarrassed. Inspiration Goats, as opposed to dogs, are herbivorous and do not feed on … Read more
Translation The soil is the one that knows that the young of a mouse is unwell. Application The most intimate details of a person’s life, along with their feelings, are … Read more
Word definitions mvana: unmarried woman who has borne a child/ woman past marriageable age. Translation It is up to an unmarried woman to have a child to raise on her … 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.
