Marambakukombwa marambamweni
The one who refuses to be surrounded by others is the one who has refused visitors
Tsanagudzo
Munhu asingafarire vanhu haawanzowana vanomushanyira.
What the Words Say
The one who refuses to be surrounded by others is the one who has refused visitors
What It Means
A warm and open heart invites others but a closed disposition will receive very few visitors
Cultural Context
Visiting others and being visited has always been an integral part of family and community bonding among the Karanga people. Through such visits people allow new experiences and knowledge to enter their homes. These are normally jovial occasions which are combined with fanfare and feasts. Hence as children grew up they were taught key attributes of hospitality such as greeting visitors, preparing food and a sleeping place for them. In order to be able to do this one must have a big heart and be willing to be surrounded by other people. Our elders noted that visitors generally like going to homes they find very welcoming and hence will only visit homes where the inhabitants generally love being in the company of others.
How It's Used
The proverb is used to reflect on those who are do not get many visitors as being people who do not like being in the company of others. It indirectly advises that if one is to have visitors then they must have a warm and open heart otherwise people will not feel comfortable being around them.