Inkolelo: Stories That Shape Our Lives

In many African societies, including among the Zulu people, inkolelo (superstitions or beliefs) remain deeply woven into everyday life. These beliefs are not just old tales—they are cultural signposts that shape behavior, values, and traditions.
When the sun sets in a rural village in KwaZulu-Natal, elders gather around the fire, telling stories that are more than just entertainment. They speak of inkolelo—the superstitions that guide daily life, shaping how people behave, respect nature, and connect with their ancestors.
One of the most repeated warnings is about whistling at night. “Ungakhweli ebusuku,” a grandmother might scold, “you will call the snakes or evil spirits.” To a child, this sounds terrifying, but hidden in the superstition is a lesson about silence and safety when darkness falls.
Another common inkolelo speaks about sweeping at night. Many believe that if you sweep after sunset, you sweep away your blessings and good fortune. This teaching often discourages unnecessary work in the dark, reminding families to finish chores while there is still daylight.
Birds and animals also carry meanings. The hooting of an owl near the homestead is feared as a sign of misfortune or death. While modern science sees it as simply a bird calling, culturally it sparks prayers and rituals to protect the family. Such beliefs remind people of their connection to the spiritual world, where ancestors and unseen forces are always present.
Pregnancy carries its own set of superstitions. Mothers are warned not to tie their stomachs too tightly with cloth, as it could “choke” the baby. They are also advised to avoid certain foods, believed to affect the unborn child. Whether factual or not, these inkolelo emphasize care, mindfulness, and respect for new life.
Even in modern cities, these beliefs are not easily forgotten. A young person may laugh at them during the day but hesitate to test them at night. Inkolelo live on because they are woven into identity and respect for ancestors.
As the Zulu proverb says, “Indlela ibuzwa kwabaphambili” – The road is asked from those who walked before. Superstitions are not just about fear; they are about remembering wisdom passed down through generations. They remind us that culture is not only in the songs we sing or the clothes we wear it is also in the beliefs we carry quietly in our hearts.

Written by Ntombifuthi Khoza