CULTURE AS PRAYER: A UNIVERSAL EXPRESSION

Sir,

Culture is not just a human construct; it’s a form of prayer that connects us to the divine, the universe and each other.

Every culture, regardless of its origins, has its own unique way of expressing spirituality, gratitude and reverence for the mysteries of life.

From the vibrant Incwala Ceremony in Eswatini, where the King and his warriors perform traditional dances, sing songs and offer prayers to the ancestors, to the solemn rituals of Eastern Europe, such as the Ukrainian Easter egg decorating ceremony, where families gathered to bless their eggs and celebrate the resurrection of life; from the colourful festivals of Asia, like the Indian Diwali celebration of light over darkness, to the lively celebrations of the Americas, such as the Brazilian Carnaval festivities, where music, dance and costumes bring joy and vitality to the streets; every culture has its own ways of honouring the divine, the ancestors and the community.

By recognising culture as a form of prayer, we can appreciate the diversity of human expression and celebrate our shared humanity.

This perspective encourages us to look beyond the surface level of cultural differences and appreciate the deeper spiritual significance that underlies every tradition.

Diversity

By embracing the diversity of cultural prayer, we can foster greater understanding, respect and cooperation among people from different backgrounds, and recognise our shared connection to the universe and each other.

In this sense, the Incwala Ceremony is not just a cultural event, but a prayer that connects emaSwati to their ancestors, their land and their community.

It is a powerful reminder that prayer is not just a private affair, but a communal expression of spirituality and gratitude that brings people together in a shared purpose.

So instead of just criticising the Incwala National Prayer on social media, emaSwati are encouraged to take an active role in preserving their cultural heritage by passing on knowledge about the prayer to younger generations and participating in it themselves.

Let us celebrate and honour the diversity of cultural prayer, and recognise the Incwala Ceremony and other cultural traditions as a form of prayer that connects us all.

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