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Bofu Rikati Ndinokurova Rinenge Rine Charakatsika
The proverb translates to: “If a blind person says ‘I will hit you’, it means they are standing on something (firm/stable).”
The general meaning and interpretation of this proverb are as follows:
The proverb is a warning against underestimating a person who appears disadvantaged or incapable.
It implies that even someone with an apparent limitation (blindness, in this case) would not make a bold claim or threat without having some form of advantage, support, or a plan that gives them confidence.
The “something (firm/stable)” refers to a hidden strength, information, or support system that the person can rely on to back up their assertion.
Bveni Kuipa Zvaro Haridyi Chakafa Chega
Literal Meaning: As wicked as a hyena may be, it won’t eat something that died on its own. Meaning: Even the most immoral people often draw the line at certain taboos; wrongdoers have limits.)
Imbwa kumedza huona kudada nechivhuno
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
Benzi Bvunza Rakanaka
Proverb meaning: “an inquiring fool is a good one” or, more broadly, that everyone has wisdom to share, so don’t look down on anyone and always ask for advice, as even a seemingly foolish person can offer valuable insight. It highlights the importance of seeking input from everyone, regardless of their perceived status or intelligence, because help can come from unexpected places.
rakanaka: Is good, is beneficial.
Benzi: Fool, idiot.
bvunza: Ask, inquire.
Ane Benzi Ndoane Rake Rikadzana Unopururudza
The proverb (tsumo) translates roughly to, “A fool is one who belongs to you; when they dance, you clap”.
The meaning of the proverb is that regardless of a person’s flaws, bad traits, or unusual behavior, if they are your relative or someone close to you, you maintain the relationship and support them anyway. It highlights:
Unconditional acceptance: You accept family members even with their faults.
Loyalty: One must show loyalty to their kin or close associates, despite their shortcomings.
Managing expectations: When you are aware of someone’s bad traits, you are less likely to be offended when they display those behaviors.
Bveni Kuipa Kuipa Zvaro Asi Haridyi Chakafa Choga
Proverb meaning “The baboon may be ugly, but it does not eat something that died on its own,” signifying that even people with many faults still possess some redeeming qualities or standards, and everyone has some good within them, similar to how a crow avoids carrion from natural death, teaching that virtue can exist alongside flaws.
Literal Translation:
Bveni: Baboon
Kuipa kuipa zvaro: It is ugly/bad/flawed (its ugliness)
Asi: But
Haridyi: It does not eat
Chakafa choga: Something that died on its own (natural death)
Meaning & Application:
This proverb highlights that everyone has flaws (like the baboon’s appearance), but this doesn’t mean they lack any good; they still maintain certain principles or standards (like refusing to eat naturally deceased flesh). It’s used to:
Encourage hope: Suggesting positive traits can be found in anyone.
Challenge offenders: Implying even habitual sinners have some minimum good.
