Faithin Omaha eBook Collection

Download or read book Explaining the Practice of Elevating an Ancestor for Veneration written by George Shakwelele and published by . This book was released on 2019 with total page 233 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Ancestor veneration is common in many Zambian communities, especially during traditional ceremonies practiced by different tribes countrywide. Ancestors are consulted for protection and guidance and are celebrated for enabling successes in life. The available literature acknowledges the practice of ancestor veneration by various cultures in Zambia as well as elsewhere in Africa. Little, however, has be written that explains the practice of elevating an ancestor for veneration. -- This grounded theory study explains, within the larger, culturally-framed construct of ancestor veneration, the practice of elevating an ancestor for veneration among the Bisa people in the Nabwalya area of northern Zambia. Data were collected via audio-recorded, face-to-face interviews with 32 participants. The interviews were subsequently transcribed verbatim and coded using NVivo12 qualitative analysis software. -- The central understanding emerging from this study's data is that the Bisa people explain the practice of elevating an ancestor for veneration in relation to four key constructs: 1) the process of becoming a venerated ancestor, 2) the interface between the practice and the Bisa traditional religion, 3) the benefits of the practice, and 4) the practice's role in perpetuating Bisa identity and culture. The practice of elevating an ancestor for veneration is naturally embedded in the larger tradition of venerating living/dead ancestors. -- Ancestor veneration, including the practice of elevating an ancestor, exists in a symbiotic relationship with the overlapping realms of the living and the dead. This study gives voice to the Bisa people and preserves a record of their cultural practices. It also reveals that participation in this cultural practice perpetuates Bisa traditions and reinforces values, provides explanations for life events, and enhances life. It also contributes to the existing body of knowledge on African Traditional Religions.