Ukuthwasa ‘initiation’, can be referred to as the embodiment of the ancestral world and nature. Ukuthwasa which is the process of becoming a sangoma involves the death of self, allowing for rebirth. Here, the trainee needs to follow the guidance of their ancestors.
When a child has been called to become a healer, they can find themselves in very challenging times. How their process unfolds depends on their guides, their guide’s demands as well as the beliefs of their parents and surrounding community. Each child’s parent’s reactions varies according to their backgrounds and exposure to African Spirituality. Some parents are hands-on, and seek the aid of a traditional healer to mediate on their behalf to the child’s guides (ancestors)
or idlozi. Asking the ancestors to allow the child to finish school before starting their journey of ubungoma. The calling canmanifest in various ways from inexplicable illnesses to dreams and children acting out and being misunderstood. It all depends on the spirit guides that will be supporting the child on the journey. It is therefore important that the child with the ‘calling’ receives the necessary support from his/her family and school. In some instances the child may be required to wear beads and sometimesthe smell of sage (impepho) may linger onto their clothes. This can result in the child being rejected or misunderstood by their mates, resulting in the child’s violent outbursts and the worst-case being depression. We therefore cannot over-stress the importance of mediation and support for a child with a spiritual calling, as it is very demanding.
Depression and Anxietyhelpline is a service that helps not only the affected person but the family as a whole. Surviving and engaging with the world and people as child with the calling can be confusing because you no longer live for yourself. Once you havebeen called or have answered to the calling. Below are some numbers that can help families with a child who has been called or who is currently going through the process of ukuthwasa:
SADAG – 011 234 4837
Akeso – 0861435 787
Cipla – 0800 456 789