Child Ritual and Cultural Significance among the Indigenous People of Mbum-Land: Resilience and Changes within the Context of Christianity

Abstract

Purpose: The paper explores rituals performed on children and the significance of these rituals understood within the context of Mbum indigenous society. These rituals which saw ancestors actively involved unveiled the Mbum world view that, ancestors never died but remained in the world beyond and constantly watch and participate in the day-to-day running of the community a practice criticized by Christianity. Methodology: This researched relied on primary and authoritative secondary data to argue that the spread of Christianity to Mbum-land from 1913 attacked certain indigenous cultural practices. Converted Christians who were still engaged in these cultural practices debunked by the church were without an identity as they were neither bonafide Christians nor full practitioners of indigenous culture. Though, these rituals were attacked, they managed to survive as its constituted key cultural values of the Mbum people. Findings: The study points out that, rituals performed on children was important as it promised family continuity which needed the efforts of the living and ancestors. Rituals were not just conducted for protection but it was a medium where babies were welcomed into the community and had a reunion with their ancestors who they were unable to meet physically. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The article’s unique contribution lies on the complex relationships between cultural practices and Christian teachings in Mbum-land. The article contributes to issues on cultural identity and its adaptation in the face of external influences.