Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
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
Translation It is up to the owner of a blanket, to use it as a cover or as an underblanket. Application It is up to one to choose what they … Read more
Definitions pfunye: Go-away bird: Grey Lourie hoto: Hornbill Translation Those in the forest ridicule each other; when a go-away bird sees a hornbill it laughs. Application People often notice and … Read more
Definition zviururwi: crickets kondo: hammerkop (a medium-sized wading bird) Translation Crickets rejoice when the hammerkop loses his eye. Inspiration The hammerkop’s diet consists primarily of frogs, tadpoles, small fish, crustaceans, … Read more
Definitions donda: to come across; to happen upon; to find by chance. zviuya: excellent; perfect; possessing outstanding qualities. Translation Two people of exceptional qualities rarely happen to find each other. … Read more
Definitions zviuya: excellent; perfect; possessing outstanding qualities. Translation Two perfect partners are rarely found together in marriage. Application This proverb teaches that perfection is rarely found in every aspect of … Read more
Translation If a mother’s back and the child’s stomach are both burned, then it becomes almost impossible for the mother to strap the child to her back. Application When one … 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.
