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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Health and religious syncretism: understanding how Christian families in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa accept family members’ calling to traditional healing

presenters

    Nosipho

    Nationality: South Africa

    Residence: South Africa

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

    Dr Gabriel Gyang Darong

    Nationality: South Africa

    Residence: South Africa

    Rhodes University

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

Keywords:

Christianity, Traditional healing, pluralism, syncretism

Abstract:

This study examines how some families blend traditional healing and Christianity when their member has an ancestral calling to become a traditional healer. Christian beliefs and traditional healing clash, but some families support their members to become healers regardless of their beliefs. The qualitative study, conducted in INtshanga, a rural community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, used in-depth, semi-structured and telephonic interviews with 13 participants to generate data. The data was analysed thematically. Using the Critical Theory, the study helps to show that the decision of these families is not just about religion. It is about challenging the norms and power structures within their communities. The study reveals that traditional healers disclosing their ancestral calling to their families were accepted and received support and love despite religious values and societal stigmatization. Families spoke about accepting their members as healers, connecting to their ancestors and returning to their roots by embracing cultural practices. Families viewed traditional healing as something that can blend with Christianity as long there is support. This is a major shift from the common views held by Christian families in this community, especially how they deal with religious and cultural differences, which is the portrayal of traditional rites and rituals as evil. The significance of the study shows how families stick together regardless of differences between their religions and cultures. The study shows the relevance of family support in taking up challenging responsibilities, such as becoming and being a traditional healer. It also shows the importance of understanding and accepting the diverse spiritual positioning and journeys within families.