Tsumo
Shona proverbs are a reflection of Shona language, history and culture. They are a cherished and interesting part of Shona oral literature.
Definitions nenji: unusual/ mysterious/ shocking occurence vara: peculiarity Translation A shocking occurrence does not happen instantly; a number of peculiarities are witnessed ahead of it. Application A crisis or bad … Read more
Definitions mhini: animal with docked tail mhango: hollow in a tree nika ura: To spread out one’s own intestines to dry. This is an expression meaning to give oneself away. … Read more
Definitions chitsiga: tree stump Translation The axe forgets but the tree stump never does. Application The offender easily forgets, but not the offended person. The offended person may later bring … Read more
Definitions tewe: Master. Owner Translation Only a forest yields on its own; a field will yield at the sight of its master. Application For something to grow and prosper one … Read more
Definitions vandurira: Extend one’s cultivated land. Translation Unlike cattle which will grow even in your absence, a field grows by being extended. Application For something to grow and prosper one … Read more
Word definitions bere: hyena chinono: slowness ngwe: leopard Translation Slowness is a trait of the leopard, a hyena had its meal while in motion. Inspiration A leopard will drag its … Read more
Translation You can be asked to let go of what is in the hand, whereas you will die with that which is in the heart. Inspiration One can easily get … Read more
Definitions mushunje: bound parcel of grass or leaves. musakasa/ musakasaka: makeshift shelter (e.g. chirindo). Translation To know what is inside a bound parcel, one has to be told; whereas when … Read more
Definitions hwanja: knobkerrie vhika: ward off a blow Translation What can be warded off is a knobkerrie; a word cannot be warded off. Application Words, once spoken, cannot be blocked—so … Read more
Translation Sometimes we have to give up even the good things, just like we had to give up suckling. Inspiration Every good thing will come to an end, just like … Read more
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About Shungu
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