By Princess Kelelo PM Dhlamini Skade
MARINE spirits, also known as water spirits or aquatic spirits, are a concept rooted in various spiritual traditions and folklores. They are believed to be supernatural entities or energies that inhabit oceans, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water.
In some cultures, marine spirits are revered as benevolent beings, associated with fertility, prosperity, and protection. They are often depicted as mermaids which are the female version of water spirits, mermen which are the male version of water spirits, these are considered to have human upper body and fish lowerbodies, or other aquatic creatures. However, in other traditions, marine spirits are feared and believed to be malevolent entities that can cause harm, misfortune, or even death. They are sometimes associated with witchcraft, curses, or dark magic.
The concept of marine spirits is not recognised by mainstream science and is considered a part of folklore and mythology. The mythology of marine spirits is rich and diverse across various cultures and civilisations worldwide. With roots dating back thousands of years, this fascinating phenomenon has evolved over time, influenced by cultural and historical factors. The earliest recorded evidence of marine spirits mythology can be found in ancient Mesopotamia, dating back to around 4000-3000 BCE. The Sumerian goddess Nammu and the Babylonian god Enki are just two examples of the many aquatic deities worshipped in this region. These ancient civilisations recognised the power and mystery of the ocean, often associating it with fertility, prosperity, and protection.
The ancient Greeks had a profound reverence for the sea and its inhabitants, as evident in their rich mythology of sea gods and goddesses. Poseidon, the powerful god of the sea, was worshipped from around the eighth century BCE, while Amphitrite, the goddess of the sea, was revered from around the fifth century BCE. These deities played a significant role in Greek mythology, often influencing the tides of human fate.
The concept of marine spirits is also deeply ingrained in various African cultures. The Yoruba orisha Olokun, worshipped in Nigeria from around the 12th century CE, is a powerful example of an aquatic deity. Similarly, the Zulu inkanyamba, a mythical water serpent, has been an integral part of South African folklore since the pre-colonial era. These diverse traditions demonstrate the significance of marine spirits in African cultures, often associated with fertility, prosperity, and spiritual growth. In Zimbabwe we also have stories of marine spirits like Nyami Nyami as a legendary water spirit said to inhabit the Zambezi River, specifically in the area around the Kariba Dam, which is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
According to local legend, Nyami Nyami is a powerful and benevolent spirit that has been revered by the local Tonga people for generations. The spirit is said to have the power to control the waters of the Zambezi River and is often associated with fertility, prosperity, and protection.
The Kariba Dam, which was constructed in the 1950s, is said to have disrupted the spirit’s habitat and caused widespread displacement of the local Tonga people. According to legend, Nyami Nyami was not pleased with the construction of the dam and has been causing troubles and misfortunes to those who disturbed its habitat.
While there is no scientific evidence to prove the existence of Nyami Nyami, the legend remains an important part of the local culture and folklore. Many locals claim to have seen the spirit or experienced its presence, and it continues to be revered and respected by the community.
In terms of the exact location, Nyami Nyami is said to inhabit the area around the Kariba Dam, particularly in the waters of the Zambezi River near the dam wall. However, it is worth noting that the spirit is said to be able to move freely throughout the river and its surrounding areas.
Mermaid legends and stories of aquatic spirits have been present in European folklore since the Middle Ages, roughly spanning from the fifth to the 15th century CE. These tales often featured seductive and mysterious creatures, inhabiting the ocean’s depths and possessing magical powers. European folklore has contributed significantly to the modern concept of marine spirits, influencing literature, art, and popular culture.
The mythology of marine spirits is a testament to humanity’s enduring fascination with the ocean and its mysteries. From ancient Mesopotamia to modern-day folklore, this rich and diverse tapestry has evolved over time, influenced by cultural and historical factors. As we continue to explore the depths of our oceans and the human experience, the legacy of marine spirits mythology remains an integral part of our shared cultural heritage.
The Marine ceremonies are traditional rituals performed in Africa to appease these water spirits. The ceremonies are usually held near rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water, and are led by spiritual/traditional leaders, spirit mediums, or other respected community members.
Preparations before these kind of ceremonies vary from culture to culture, for example in some parts, the community will prepare by cleaning and decorating the ceremony site, usually with traditional herbs, flowers, and other offerings.
The ceremony begins with the invocation of the Marine spirit, usually through singing, drumming, or burning of incense. The community will then make offerings to the Marine spirit, which may include food, drink, cloth, or other items. These offerings are believed to appease the spirit and ensure its favor. The ceremony may include various rituals, such as the pouring of beer or other liquids into the water, the release of fish or other aquatic animals, or the performance of traditional rituals.
In some cases, the ceremony may include divination rituals, where the spirit medium or traditional leader will interpret the will of the Marine spirit and provide guidance to the community. The ceremony is usually closed with a final invocation and the thanking of the Marine spirit for its presence and favor.
With the vast diversity of cultures and traditions, it is worth noting that the specifics of the Marine ceremonies can vary depending on the region, community, and traditional leaders involved. Additionally, the ceremonies are often performed in secret, and outsiders may not be allowed to participate or observe.
In Zimbabwe there is water spirits called Manjuzu. The Manjuzu ceremonies are an integral part of Zimbabwean cultural heritage, and their significance extends beyond the individual to the family and community. These ceremonies are deeply rooted in tradition and are typically conducted with the involvement and blessing of family members and community leaders.
One of the primary reasons why someone cannot do Manjuzu ceremonies and rituals with their friends in secrecy without consulting family and traditional custodians is that it goes against the fundamental principles of Zimbabwean culture. Family and community ties are strong in Zimbabwean society, and important ceremonies like Manjuzu are usually conducted with respect for elders, ancestors, and community norms.
However, a growing concern has emerged about the misuse of these ceremonies for personal gain, particularly wealth accumulation. Some individuals have begun to exploit Manjuzu ceremonies, turning them into cult-like practices. These practices involve using rice, wines, sweets, and cakes as offerings to appease the Manjuzu spirits. In some cases, high tea ceremonies are conducted for those who are far from rivers, as a substitute for traditional ceremonies (we will delve deeper on these high teas when we engage on the importance of understanding any ceremony or party one is invited to). These practices are often conducted in secrecy, without the knowledge or involvement of family members or traditional leaders.
Many families are unaware that their loved ones are participating in these ceremonies. Some individuals may even be hiding their involvement from their families, fearing judgment or rejection. This secrecy can lead to further exploitation and manipulation by fake spiritual practitioners who claim to have the power to appease the Manjuzu spirits.
Some fake spiritual practitioners have emerged, suggesting, partaking, or even misleading these ceremonies. These individuals often prey on vulnerable individuals seeking financial gain or solutions to their problems. They may use manipulative tactics to convince individuals to participate in these ceremonies, often with devastating consequences. The consequences of these Manjuzu ceremonies can be severe. Some individuals who participate in these ceremonies may start falling sick, while others may die under mysterious circumstances. There have also been reports of individuals drowning in rivers, allegedly as a result of the ceremonies going wrong.
It is essential to prioritise the cultural significance and traditional practices surrounding Manjuzu ceremonies. These ceremonies should be conducted with respect, tradition, and cultural sensitivity. They should not be used for personal gain or financial exploitation. We cannot ignore this growing concern that needs to be addressed. It is essential to promote a deeper understanding and respect for the cultural significance of these ceremonies. By doing so, we can ensure that these traditional practices continue to play a positive role in African cultures and societies.
Conducting Manjuzu ceremonies in secrecy without the knowledge or involvement of family members and traditional custodians can be seen as disrespectful and may have unintended consequences. Manjuzu ceremonies involve the invocation of ancestral water spirits and the use of traditional rituals and practices that are meant to ensure the well-being and prosperity of individuals and the communities. Without the proper knowledge, permission, and involvement of family members and traditional custodians, these ceremonies can lose their cultural significance and meaning. Moreover, they may even be considered taboo or sacrilegious. From what I understand, Manjuzu ceremonies are typically community-based and involve the participation of family members, community leaders, and traditional authorities.
In Zimbabwean culture, family and community ties are strong, and important ceremonies like Manjuzu are usually conducted with the involvement and blessing of family members and community leaders.
It’s unlikely that someone would be allowed to practice Manjuzu ceremonies with only their friends, and without the knowledge or involvement of their families. The ceremonies are often deeply rooted in tradition and cultural heritage, and are typically conducted with respect for elders, ancestors, and community norms. If someone were to attempt to conduct a Manjuzu ceremony without the proper knowledge, permission, or involvement of their family and community, it could potentially be seen as disrespectful or even taboo. Manjuzu ceremonies are an important part of Zimbabwean cultural heritage, and their significance extends beyond the individual to the family and community. Conducting these ceremonies in secrecy without the knowledge or involvement of family members and traditional custodians goes against the fundamental principles of Zimbabwean culture and may have unintended consequences.
A Call to Action: Traditional Leaders Must Address the Rise of Cultic Manjuzu Practices
To the esteemed traditional leaders of Zimbabwe, we write to bring to your attention a matter of grave concern. The sacred tradition of Manjuzu ceremonies, which has been an integral part of our cultural heritage for centuries, is being exploited and distorted by unscrupulous individuals.
These cultic practices, which involve the use of Manjuzu ceremonies for personal gain and financial exploitation, are on the rise. They are being conducted in secrecy, without the knowledge or involvement of family members or traditional leaders. Fake traditional practitioners are preying on vulnerable individuals, using manipulative tactics to convince them to participate in these ceremonies.
The consequences of these practices are devastating. Individuals who participate in these ceremonies are falling sick, dying under mysterious circumstances, and even drowning in rivers. The cultural significance and traditional practices surrounding Manjuzu ceremonies are being disrespected and distorted.
As traditional leaders, it is your responsibility to protect and preserve our cultural heritage. We urge you to take immediate action to address this issue. We call upon you to investigate these cultic practices and identify those responsible, we would like you to work with law enforcement agencies to bring perpetrators to justice. It is also very important to educate communities about the dangers of these practices and the importance of respecting traditional ceremonies, including general curses which they may carry and how they may inflict consequences like droughts, famine, diseases on our land. It is highly important to develop strategies to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by creating and collaborating with our traditional leaders to promote a deeper understanding and respect for the cultural significance of Manjuzu ceremonies
I personally believe that it is only through collective action that we can address this issue and protect our cultural heritage across our continent of Africa.
(These opinions belong to Princess Kelelo PM Dhlamini Skade)
