Introduction

Isiphandla is a cultural wristband worn by Zulu people for various reasons, which include connecting to their ancestors, family, and customs. In addition, the wristband is experienced as a source of hope, security, respect, and pride. Importantly, it is worn when you acknowledge the ritual or ceremony of abadala (ancestors). Many families slaughter cattle as part of a cleansing ritual or rite of passage, or even to welcome a visitor. The cleansing ceremony such as imbeleko, umhlonyana, ukugeza and ukukhuphula, which are the uplifting of the living-dead to the ancestral community, are the more common rituals where animals are slaughtered. 

The Belief Behind an Isiphandla

While to many isiphandla is tradition, to some it’s a habit. It’s a habit many usually do (mostly Zulus), many believe the bands are symbolic and offer hope, and security and instill a sense of respect and pride. The Zulu culture isn’t the only one to use items of jewelry, or cultural objects, with many religions using specific items for important occasions. For some, isiphandla is a form of superstitious belief that is passed down by generation, and there’s no valid proof that it works but because it’s been used for years, the practice is carried on and becomes tradition.

What is it Made of

The traditional isiZulu wristband is made from the hide of a slaughtered cow or goat, which is then worn on the wrist. Because it is usually worn when wet (after the animal has been slaughtered of course), it has an odour, and it has been said that rubbing coarse salt or umlotha (ash) or even maize meal on it will dry it quicker and make it more bearable.

Reasons People Wear Isiphandla

Some people wear it on more than one and/or on both wrists; it depends on the ceremony that is done. Siya Mkhize, a vibrant African Spiritual Advisor and TV personality explains more on Morning Show SA that on your left wrist is one to thank one’s maternal side of the family, and on the right wrist is for the paternal side (both extracted from the male and female sheep). Traditional healers also wear isiphandla, which is for every ceremony that may occur during their stay at the initiation (entwaseni). For them, contrary to popular culture, isiphandla is worn on both of your wrists, arms, knees, and ankles. 

According to cultural expert Dr Thulebona Mnyadi, our culture and traditions make us who we are. Dr Mnyadi continues to elaborate that Isiphandla is not entirely important, the bile from the cow that one’s wrist will be poured at. Isiphandla, according to Dr Thulebona Mnyadi, is less of a necessary ritual and more of a superstitious belief. One doesn’t decide to wear the Isiphandla. They can be likened to our very own human barcode, setting us apart and serving as our unique signature.

Co author- Lungelo Ngongoma