Destroyer: the dynamics of the spoken word among the highland Bantu in East Africa

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Periodical article

Title:	Destroyer: the dynamics of the spoken word among the highland Bantu in East Africa
Authors:	Kamera, W.D. Mpesha, N.
Year:	1991
Periodical:	Journal of Asian and African Studies (Tokyo)
Issue:	41
Pages:	143-162
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Tanzania
Subjects:	Chaga customary law criminal law rituals Chaga language
Abstract:	By presenting the text, in Chagga and in a literal English translation, which accompanies the ritual use of the 'pot' as destroyer in serious judicial matters, in this case theft, amongst the Chagga of Tanzania, the authors offer an example of a ritual drama in which the potency and finality of the spoken word is paramount. The pot, which is used to represent the spirit of justice, is a potent object, but it is the word that accompanies it in ritual that gives it direction. The power of the word is used to help restore the criminal to sanity and give retribution to the victim. The same phenomenon has been noted in several communities among the highland Bantu of East Africa. Bibliogr., note, ref.