II
Imbwa Ine Hona Hayihukuri | Nzou haikarari ina makaka.
If you have something you treasure, you’d remain quiet in case you lose it or jeopardise your success.
Imbwa kumedza huona kudada nechivhuno
The proverb translates to “A dog only swallows (meat) when it sees the pride (of the hunter/owner) in its chest” or more simply, “a dog only swallows when it is safe to do so”.
The meaning of this proverb is:
You should not act prematurely or make assumptions without tangible proof or certainty. The dog waits to see the physical pride (chivhuno – often refers to the broad chest of a proud person/hunter returning from a successful hunt) of the owner before consuming the meat, ensuring that the source of the meat is legitimate and plentiful and not just a temporary or stolen scrap.
It advises against relying on promises or hearsay. One should wait for tangible results before acting on an assumption.
A related interpretation is that a person will only fully commit or act when they are confident in their position, the source of their benefit, or the security of their situation
Imbwa kumedza hona kudada nechivhuno | Kutukana nemuroyi hunge muchizivana.
Some people may say something knowing where they stand, imitating them may get you in trouble.
Imbwa Yarara Haimutsirwe Sadza. Same as: Nyoka Yapinda Mumwena Hayinyombwi.
A warning to people not to provoke others as they will face the consequences and end up in trouble or hurt.
Imbwa nyoro ndidzo tsengi dzamatovo.
The people that seem innocent are usually the guilty ones.
Igaroziva kuti mhanza yembudzi iri mumabvi.
Things are not what they seem like.
