Exploring Bemba Traditional Religious Cosmology of Mystical Powers in Mpika District, Zambia
Keywords:
Spirits, witchcraft, magic, sorcery, rituals, mystical powers.
Abstract
The study explored the Bemba Traditional Religious (BTR) cosmology of mystical powers in Mpika district. Among the Bemba people, these powers are considered impersonal, supernatural, or magical forces that pervade the cosmos, function behind all human activities, act in various ways for good and bad, and impact people’s daily lives. The study employed a qualitative research method and a descriptive case study. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were engaged to generate the appropriate data. Data was analysed using thematic framework analysis. The Bemba people and their traditional leaders made up the population. The sample size of 30 participants was chosen through homogenous purposive sampling. The study established that the Bemba people believed in the existence of the unseen or spirit world, which they thought was the source of magical abilities. Mystical powers manifested through witchcraft, divination, magic, traditional medicine, rituals, vows and oaths traditional healers, witches, diviners and medicine men and women.
Published
2024-05-27
Section
Articles