Title: Umsamo: Ingono NeNkaba
ISBN 978-0-6398582-4-1
Author: Bhedlindaba “VVO” Mkhize
Summary
Umsamo (sacred space/Altar): Ingono (nipple) neNkaba (navel)
Umsamo: Ingono neNkaba by Bhedlindaba is a reflective and thought-provoking work that explores themes of identity, ancestry, and spiritual connection in the context of African indigenous knowledge and belief systems using the concepts of the navel and the nipple. This is an auto-ethnographic study. The book is a collection of insights, discussions, and teachings drawn from the author’s experiences, including his engagements on radio programs such as Izwi Labantu and Jabula Ujule on Ukhozi FM. The book is an engagement seeking critical debate by scholars from variety of disciplines such as Practical theology, Religion studies, African philosophy, sociology, anthropology, Africology, Ancestrology and healing.
At its core, the book addresses the search for self-knowledge and the reconnection with one’s ancestral roots. The author argues that many people have lost touch with their heritage due to historical disruptions, leading to a crisis of identity and misunderstanding of spiritual and cultural traditions. He challenges readers to question what they think they know and encourages them to seek a deeper understanding of their lineage (umsamo), as well as the spiritual forces that shape their existence.
A significant theme in the book is the loss of ancestral wisdom and the societal consequences of being disconnected from one’s roots. The author expresses frustration with modern tendencies to dismiss indigenous beliefs, urging readers to embrace traditional ways of knowing instead of labeling them as outdated or superstitious. He emphasizes that reconnecting with one’s inkaba (umbilical link to ancestors) is essential for a meaningful and balanced life.
The book also serves as a documentation of the author’s journey in sharing knowledge through different media platforms. Many of the discussions included were originally broadcasted on Ukhozi FM, but due to listener demand, they have been compiled in written form for wider accessibility. The author acknowledges various individuals and mentors who have influenced his work, including scholars and traditional knowledge bearers.
In addition to historical and cultural reflections, Umsamo: Ingono neNkaba is also a call to action. The author urges readers to reclaim their spiritual inheritance, engage critically with their past, and ensure that future generations do not suffer from the same loss of identity. Through storytelling, analysis, and personal testimony, he presents umsamo not just as a physical space but as a living philosophy that sustains and guides individuals in their everyday lives.
In essence, this book is both a spiritual and intellectual exploration of African heritage, challenging modern assumptions and offering a critical perspective on reclaiming lost wisdom.
The book is made up of the following 10 chapters loosely translated to English:
- Introduction (Isingeniso)
- Isahluko sokuqala: Amaqiniso angumgogodla; Amalungelo & Izinkulumo zabadala (Chapter 1 – Core facts; Rights & Wisdom Speeches of elders)
- Isahluko sesibili: Onontanda kubukwa, Ingqophamlando eMlambomunye & Ukubaluleka komgcagco wesintu & Importance of traditional cultural wedding (Chapter 2 – The beloved ones while the world watches, a landmark in Mlambomunye)
- Isahluko sesithathu: Umnyombo wemimoya; Imfihlo yomthandazo & Emzini malokazane (Chapter 3 – The essence of spirits; the secret of prayer & at your in-laws daughter in law)
- Isahluko sesine: Usizi lwasemhlabeni; Ukwenganyelwa imimoya & Phumela obala ngomama wasekhaya (Chapter 4 – Earthly sorrow; Being controlled/possessed by spirits & be open about the wife in the home-declare your marriage to your wife)
- Isahluko sesihlanu: Masiziqonde izinsuku esizigubhayo; Iqiniso Lobungoma & Idlozi lesindawe (Chapter 5 – Let’s understand the days we celebrate; the truth about ubungoma & A Ndawi ancestor spirit)
- Isahluko sesithupha: Amaphupho nezibonakaliso; Masingazinyezi ngesintu sethu & Ayini amaphupho nezibonakaliso (Chapter 6 – Dreams and signs/visions; let’s not be ashamed of our being & what are dreams and signs)
- Isahluko sesikhombisa: Isikole sisekhaya; Ukubaluleka kwezinyanga ezakhanayo & Akupheli ukuthwasa (Chapter 7 – Schooling is at home; Importance of collaborative development among traditional healers & Initiation does not end – it is a lifelong process)
- Isahluko sesishiyagalombili: Imfihlo iyogcina ikuhlukumeza; Ukwamukela idlozi & Imfihlo yokungenisa izidalwa ekhaya (Chapter 8 – The secret will eventually haunt you; Acceptance of ancestors & the secret to bringing ancestors and spiritualties home)
- Isahluko sesishiyagalolunye: Isibongo: Iwona msamo wakho; Ithongo elibi nelihle
- & Amagama esiphiwa wona abazali bethu (Chapter 9 –The Surname is your sacredness; A bad and a good ancestor & Names given to us by our parents)
- Isahluko seshumi: Ukuvalwa komkhokha; Imfihlo yenhlanhla yakho & Amawele/Amakhosi (Chapter 10) – Stopping a curse of bad event; the secret to your luck & Twins as well as Kings)
- Isiphetho (Conclusion)