Tsumo DzeChiShona Dzinotanga naU

Imagine vibrant sayings, bursting with the wisdom of ancestors. Passed down like whispers on the wind, these Shona proverbs, called “tsumo,” are more than just words.

They are living embers, glowing with truths about life, love, and all that lies beneath the sun.

Forget clumsy translations, for these potent gems transcend language.

Dive into their depths, and let their meaning unfold with each thoughtful pause.

Embark on a journey where ancient wisdom illuminates your path, guiding you towards understanding and connection.

These proverbs are not just sayings; they are keys to unlocking a deeper knowledge, waiting to be discovered.

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Tsumo Dzinotanga naU: Picture credit to Masai

Tsumo DzeChiShona Dzinotanga naU

1. Ukanaya manhanga, uchadyiwa nehuku. (If you plant millet, you will be eaten by chickens.) – This proverb warns against being careless or unprepared, as you may suffer the consequences.
2. Ukama husingaperi hwavaviri vafamba vakabatana. (The relationship that never ends is that of two who walk together.) – This proverb emphasizes the importance of unity and cooperation in maintaining strong relationships.
3. Ushamwari hunoenderana nemwoyo, kwete nemari. (Friendship depends on the heart, not on money.) – This proverb reminds us that true friendship is based on genuine connection, not material wealth.
4. Ushe hausi hwekungwara chete, asiwo hwemwoyo uzunze. (Leadership is not just about intelligence, but also about having a good heart.) – This proverb highlights the importance of compassion and integrity in leadership.

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5. Upenyu hwakareba hakusi hwekungwara, asi hwemangwanani. (A long life is not about intelligence, but about waking up early.) – This proverb emphasizes the importance of hard work and diligence in achieving success.
6. Utsi hwemusha hwakanaka kupfuura hwevamwe. (The smoke of your own home is better than that of others.) – This proverb reminds us to appreciate what we have, even if it seems small or ordinary.
7. Usavimba nemunhu wauri kusangana naye kekutanga. (Don’t trust someone you are meeting for the first time.) – This proverb warns against being too trusting of strangers.
8. Usashaye hanya kana uchinge uchiziva kwaturi kuenda. (Don’t lose your way if you know where you are going.) – This proverb encourages us to stay focused and determined on our goals.
9. Usazvidya mwoyo nezvinhu zvausingachinji. (Don’t worry about things you cannot change.) – This proverb reminds us to focus on what we can control and accept what we cannot.
10. Uchandida kani, asi usandireme. (You can hate me, but don’t lie about me.) – This proverb emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity, even in difficult situations.
11. Urombo hunokunda kushaya. (Better late than never.) – This proverb encourages us to take action, even if it’s later than we planned.
12. Utano hwakanaka hupfuura pfuma yose. (Good health is better than all wealth.) – This proverb reminds us to value our health and well-being above all else.
13. Ungwarire shamwari yepedyo kupfuura muvengi kure. (Beware of a close friend more than a distant enemy.) – This proverb warns against the dangers of betrayal from those we trust.

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    Tsumo DzeChiShona Dzinotanga naU: Picture credit to Masai

14. Usatsamire zvakapfuura. Tarisa mberi. (Don’t dwell on the past. Look forward.) – This proverb encourages us to move on from past mistakes and focus on the future.
15. Usambofa wakaita zvakanaka. (Don’t forget the good you’ve done.) – This proverb reminds us to be proud of our accomplishments and contributions.
16. Usatonga munhu usati wamufunga. (Don’t judge someone before you understand them.) – This proverb encourages us to be empathetic and consider different perspectives.
17. Usanyara kubvunza. (Don’t be afraid to ask.) – This proverb encourages us to seek knowledge and understanding, even if it means asking questions.
18. Usaita zvisingafadzi kwauri kuvadzimu vako. (Don’t do things that would displease your ancestors.) – This proverb reminds us to respect our traditions and cultural heritage.
19. Usazviise pamusoro pevamwe. (Don’t put yourself above others.) – This proverb encourages us to be humble and respectful of others.
20. Usavhunduke nemashoko evamwe vanhu. (Don’t be discouraged by the words of others.) – This proverb encourages us to believe in ourselves and not let negativity bring us down.