Hapana mukuyu unovinga shiri; Mukuyu haunovinge shiri
A fig tree does not go to the birds.
Tsanagudzo
Anenge aine chaanoda ndiye anotochifambira. Tsumo iyi yaishandiswa zve kudzidzisa kuti mukomana anofanira kufambira musikana waanenge achida kwete kuti musikana ofambira mukomana.
What the Words Say
A fig tree does not go to the birds.
What It Means
One who genuinely wants something will show endeavor for that objective.
Cultural Context
Birds have always loved feeding off the fig tree and will fly great lengths to reach their favoured tree. While the tree is obviously not easily moved, this example gave elders the lesson that when one wants something they must take initiative to get it. The proverb in this way actually affects both sides of the tale - the fig tree and the bird. On the one hand for the one who desires something, they can only get it or show their seriousness by putting in the effort and going the distance to get it. If not they will not get it. On the other hand, it is a teaching to the one who is in possession of the resources or skills desired by another that they should not be the ones to show endeavour. Resources or skills obtained without much endeavour are usually not fully appreciated.
How It's Used
The proverb is used to teach the importance of one having endeavour in order for them to attain the things they want. It is also used to warn those who have the desired resources or skills to not willfully place them in front of those who desire them because there is no way of telling if they are genuine if they do not work for it. Interestingly the proverb was also used to teach that it is a man who courts a woman and not the other way around in the karanga customs.