Tsonga widow’s mourning rituals practices in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Africa: A ritual-liturgical exploration

Abstract

This article studies the rituals and ceremonies that are practised by Tsonga widows at a village in Giyani in Limpopo. The research is based on the observation of the exclusion of widows from church attendance and activities in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in South Africa (EPCSA). The study was conducted among Tsonga-speaking widows in the Tsonga community. The exclusion of widows is respected and understood by members of the church because they believe in respecting people’s cultural and traditional beliefs. This article attempts to study the conflict between Christianity and Tsonga mourning rituals and practices in the EPCSA. This is a qualitative study; however, literature is also included. Mourning rituals are presented and analysed to attempt to find ways in which practical theology can help the Tsonga widows in the EPCSA through liturgical inculturation as they undertake the mourning period. The authors recommend that a study on the effectiveness of mourning rituals for Tsonga widows would be fruitful for the EPCSA.

The Violent Aspect of Widowhood Rites in the South African Context

“…It is essential to approach these topics with sensitivity, recognising the diversity and uniqueness of South Africa's cultural landscape. Research conducted by Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020) among the Tsonga showed that one of their widowhood rites includes being cut on the private parts using a razor so that when the widow bleeds, the husband's blood is thus removed from her body. Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020) furthermore argue that these rituals are oppressive to women.…”

“…Research conducted by Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020) among the Tsonga showed that one of their widowhood rites includes being cut on the private parts using a razor so that when the widow bleeds, the husband's blood is thus removed from her body. Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020) furthermore argue that these rituals are oppressive to women. Widowhood rites have been discussed in the current literature; however, this article focuses on their violent elements in the context of South Africa.…”

“…In African culture, rituals are a very delicate subject because they represent an integral element of an individual's identity and sense of pride in being African (Khosa-Nkatini et al 2020). The widows feel that cultural customs are to be observed to please their ancestors, even if they are aware that their rights are violated (Mabunda and Ross 2023).…”

“…Strong social rites, practices, and taboos associated with widowhood exist in many South African social and cultural groups and are influenced by powerful patriarchal systems and religious beliefs in society (Magudu and Mohlakoana-Motopi 2013). According to Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020), women are socialised to be submissive and quiet in all areas of their marriage and womanhood. This kind of socialisation is related to how widows react if detrimental ceremonies are performed.…”

“…According to research by Mabunda and Ross (2023), South African widows are subjected to restrictions on their freedom of movement, participation in specific activities, modes of dress, sitting arrangements, the use of distinct utensils, and cleansing rituals. According to a study conducted by Khosa-Nkatini et al (2020) on Tsonga widows in South Africa, widows carry out the rites out of fear of what might happen if they do not. Excessive fear may cause psychosomatic problems for the widows.…”