Picture ancient wisdom tucked within vibrant sayings, passed like secrets on the wind, whispering through generations.
This is the essence of “tsumo,” the beating heart of Shona culture.
Forget translations, for these potent gems leap across languages, offering truths about life, love, and everything under the sun.
Let these proverbs be your guide, their meaning unfolding with each thoughtful pause.
Embark on a journey where the embers of ancient wisdom illuminate the path ahead, lighting your way towards understanding and connection.
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Tsumo Dzinotanga naT: Picture credit to Wikipedia
Tsumo DzeChiShona Dzinotanga naT
- Tsime rinonyenga harina mvura. (A well that deceives has no water.) – This proverb warns against being fooled by appearances.
- Tsuro yakatanga ndeyekuruma. (The horn that started small is the one that gored.) – This proverb warns against underestimating someone or something that seems insignificant.
- Tsika dzakanaka dzinokudza, tsika dzakaipa dzinokunyadzisa. (Good customs bring you honor, bad customs bring you shame.) – This proverb emphasizes the importance of following good customs and traditions.
- Tsunga dzembudzi hadziwirirane. (Goats’ horns do not touch each other.) – This proverb means that people of different social standing or beliefs cannot have close relationships.
- Tsvimbo yomuriwo haina simba. (A vegetable stalk does not have strength.) – This proverb means that someone who is weak or powerless cannot achieve much.
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Tsumo Dzinotanga naT: credit to Auction Ethnic Hosho
- Tsitsi dzembudzi hadzibvirire pwere. (A goat’s hair does not cover a child.) – This proverb means that a small amount of something cannot be enough to meet a large need.
- Tsuro rinoroya hariputiriri. (The horn that brags does not gore.) – This proverb warns against boasting, as it can lead to failure.
- Tsime rine mvura yakawanda harina shamwari. (A well with a lot of water has no friends.) – This proverb means that people who are generous and helpful are often taken advantage of.
- Tsono dzine mazwi maviri dzinorema kupfuura matombo. (Two words can weigh more than stones.) – This proverb emphasizes the power of words and the importance of speaking carefully.
- Tsomhu haina musoro. (A lie has no head.) – This proverb means that lies are easily exposed and cannot be sustained.
