INCWALA SPIRITUALITY, GRATITUDE

Sir,

Culture is far more than a mere human construct; it represents a profound form of prayer that binds us to the divine, the universe and to one another. Each culture, irrespective of its geographical or historical origins, possesses a distinctive method of expressing spirituality, gratitude and reverence for the myriad of mysteries of life. Consider the vibrant Incwala ceremony in Eswatini, where the King and his warriors engage in traditional dances, sing songs and offer prayers to their ancestors. This ceremony is not merely a cultural event; it is an essential prayer that connects the emaSwati people to their lineage, land and community.

Rituals

Similarly, the solemn rituals of Eastern Europe, such as the Ukrainian tradition of decorating Easter eggs, see families gather to bless these symbols of new life, marking the celebration of resurrection. These acts are imbued with deep spiritual significance, showcasing a collective yearning for connection with the divine.  Across Asia, festivals such as Diwali, epitomise the celebration of light triumphing over darkness, where families and communities come together to share in joy and reflection. In the Americas, events like the Brazilian Carnaval burst forth with music, dance and vibrant costumes that infuse the streets with vitality and celebration.

Each of these cultural expressions serves to honour the divine, the ancestors and the community, reinforcing the idea that culture acts as a prayer. Recognising culture as a form of prayer invites us to appreciate the rich tapestry of human expression and to celebrate our shared humanity. This perspective encourages us to delve deeper than surface-level cultural distinctions, allowing us to uncover the spiritual significance that underpins every tradition. Each act of cultural expression becomes a testament to our collective journey, a reminder that spirituality permeates every facet of our lives.

Embracing

Embracing the diversity of cultural prayer fosters greater understanding, respect and cooperation among people from various backgrounds. It encourages us to acknowledge our shared connection to the universe and to one another, thus nurturing a global community grounded in mutual respect. Prayer, in its truest sense, transcends individual experience: It is a communal expression of spirituality and gratitude that unites people toward a common purpose. The communal aspect of prayer, as exemplified by the Incwala ceremony, serves as a powerful reminder of this truth. It calls upon the emaSwati to engage actively in preserving their cultural heritage, to impart knowledge of these traditions to younger generations and to participate in them wholeheartedly. Rather than merely critiquing the Incwala national prayer on social media, it is imperative that emaSwati embrace their cultural practices and celebrate them as vital expressions of their identity.

Honour

By doing so, they honour their ancestors and fortify the bonds within their community. Let us collectively celebrate and honour the diversity of cultural prayer. Recognising the Incwala ceremony, along with other cultural traditions, as a universal form of prayer allows us to connect with each other on a deeper level. It reminds us that we are all part of a greater whole, woven together by the threads of spirituality, gratitude and shared human experience.

Liam Khumalo

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