Indigenous South African marriage facts for kids

The indigenous African idea of marriage is a special connection between two families, not just two people. It's like a strong agreement that brings a man's family and a woman's family together forever. This bond is made official through a tradition called ukulobola and by giving special gifts, known as ikhazi. These gifts often include cattle or other valuable items, given from the husband's family to the wife's family.

This important agreement creates a lasting "in-laws" relationship between the two families. This connection becomes even stronger when the couple has children, who then become part of both families.

The Bride's New Role

When a woman gets married, she moves from her own family, where she was seen as a young princess, or inkosazana. She then joins her husband's home, where she is honored as the queen of the household, known as inkosikazi.

Qualities of a Married Woman

In her new role, a married woman is seen as a wonderful example of love, care, hard work, and being dependable. She is also known for being clever and finding solutions.

The Hen Symbol

There's a beautiful symbol for a married woman: she is like a hen. Just as a hen spreads its wings to keep all its chicks warm and safe, a married woman is seen as someone who cares for everyone in the family. This includes the young children, the older relatives, those who are sick, and even orphans. She makes sure everyone is looked after and happy.

Key Traditions

Two important traditions in African marriage are ukulobola and ikhazi. These customs are central to how families come together.

What is Ukulobola?

Ukulobola is a traditional agreement or covenant. It's a way for the groom's family to show respect and appreciation to the bride's family for raising their daughter. It's not about buying a wife, but about building a strong relationship between the two families.

The Meaning of Ikhazi

Ikhazi refers to the gifts given during the ukulobola process. These gifts are usually cattle, but they can also be other valuable items. The ikhazi helps to make the marriage official and shows the seriousness of the commitment between the two families. It also helps to strengthen the bonds between them.

• Ndima, D. D. (2013). Re-imagining and re-interpreting African jurisprudence under the South African Constitution (Doctoral dissertation, University of South Africa). Available online