Facing Mount Kenya; the Tribal Life of Gikuyu Chapter Summary & Analysis - Religion and Ancestor Worship and The New Religion in East Africa Summary

Religion and Ancestor Worship and The New Religion in East Africa Summary and Analysis

In "Religion and Ancestor Worship", Kenyatta notes the importance of relations with ancestors. He explains there are three types of spirituality: those of deity worship, communion with ancestors, and sacrificial practice. The Gikuyu believe in a single god, Ngai, who is believed to reside in Mount Kenya. Birth, initiation, marriage, and death all require communion with Ngai. When seeking help from Ngai, only the family group, including the ancestral spirits, may ask for help. Individual indiscretions are solved through communion with the ancestral spirits. Sacred trees serve as churches. Ngai appears as nature, such as stars. In general, prayers are not offered to Ngai, as he is not to be bothered unless it is necessary. Thunder is the sound of his movement, and lightning is his weapon. During public gatherings, the people may pray for peace from Ngai and for...
(read more)