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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | A Lovedu prayer - the light it throws on the ancestor cult |
Author: | Jensen Krige, Eileen |
Year: | 1974 |
Periodical: | African Studies |
Volume: | 33 |
Issue: | 2 |
Pages: | 91-97 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | South Africa |
Subjects: | Church ancestor worship Lobedu |
External link: | https://doi.org/10.1080/00020187408707427 |
Abstract: | Recent investigations in urban areas in South Africa bear testimony to the persistence among Christian Africans of all denominations, more particularly among the numerous separatist sects, of belief in the ancestors and of ritual elements found in the ancestor cult. Wherein lies the strength and attraction of the ancestor cult? The author examines a particular example of a prayer connected with Lovedu sacrifice in the hope of laying bare some of the concepts underlying their ancestor cult. This prayer is important also for the light it throws on the relationship of the queen to her ancestors and of her attitude to het own rainmaking powers. First and foremost of the characteristics of the Lovedu ancestor cult is the warmth and intimacy of the bond between men and their gods - between the living and those nearest and dearest to them, who have died. Notes; bibl. |