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Xhosa Heritage - African Traditional Religion
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African Traditional Religion(ATR) has no sacred texts; religion is written in the minds and actions of the people. African Religion focuses on ritual participation and observence rather than on text, as sacred authority. It is based on a daily practical routine of showing respect to the elderly, siblings, nature and one-self. Practitioners of African Religion know that one has to consult the clan regarding whatever action s/he intends to take, rather than consult a "book". In the African communal way of life, practitioners of ATR are constantly reminded of all the components of their religion. Rituals, daily life and social interactions are where respect for each other, morality and practice interact.A book could only be used to keep record of geneology in one's ancestral family tree. Knowledge of clan names help children to invoke almost all their ancestors and to know their blood relatives.
Adapted from "African Traditional Religion: An introduction for beginners" - by Nokuzola Mndende, Icamagu Institute.1998 - 2007 Afrikan Virtual Resource and Nalane.
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