![]() ![]() It is through the use of totems, mitupo/izibongo that the unique way of living of the Shona and Ndebele people is reflected. ![]() ![]() While the Shona people use mitupo based on animals and nature, in Ndebele izangelo/izibongo were derived from names of the ancestors, from power, looks and deeds.įor example, ‘abakoKhumalo ngondlangamandla’ (those of the Khumalo totem live by the sword) illustrates how they settled in present day Zimbabwe and established their kingdom. The belief that the chosen creature contributed in some way to the survival of the clan influenced their choice.Īnother aspect was that a clan would model itself after an essential attribute of the chosen animal, particularly bravery, courage, speed and wisdom. Historically, the choice of an animal, reptile, fish or bird for a totem was driven by a survival instinct. Sigmund Freud in his book Totems and Taboo defined a totem as an animal either edible or harmless or dangerous and feared, more rarely it is a plant or a force of nature (rain, water) which stands in a peculiar relation to the whole clan. Without doubt, the practice of celebrating totems is synonymous with the African societies. These customs did not only define them, but guided them through their daily lives. ![]() DIFFERENT people in the world are identified by certain practices and beliefs that define their essence.ĭuring the pre-colonial era, the Shona people followed different beliefs, customs and practices that made them a unique people. ![]()
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