Details And Beliefs Behind Circumcision In Bukusu

Mango, of the Bameme clan revived the rite of circumcision. This was because a big snake known as Yabebe which had killed so many people and livestock. It became too much of a nuisance to the society and had to be stopped. It was actually a great threat to the entire society even the great warriors were afraid of it.

Some sources might argue that Mango did not start the circumcision rite but rather, just rekindled it. The Babukusus who claim to trace their blood ties to the Hebrews believe that circumcision started with one of their Great grandfathers. They were known as Samba Sambaranengunyi- alleged to be Abraham the Hebrew.  Unfortunately, rite stopped after an infection that causes sores at the male reproductive organ. The infection is believed to have been measles.

The neighboring Sabaot community had promised to give out a beautiful bride to that man that would kill the snake. Mango then took the bold step to face the most feared snake. He took the Embalu the sword and hid himself in the cave where the Yabebe resided. When the snake entered, it did not sense the presence of Mango and that is when he chopped is head off leaving it dead.

Having done a brave thing, he was up to take the gift that was promised-the bride promised by the Sabaot elders. The Babukusu refer to the Sabaot as Barwa and the Barwa by then still were ongoing with the circumcision rite. Only the circumcised gents were allowed to take a wife. Mango then had to undergo the cut before getting married to the Sabaot girl. After Mango had underwent the pain of the knife he then became the first Omusani-a real man that was fearless.

Sioyayo a song that is sung when someone is being taken for the cut, is associated with the sounds produced by hyenas. It is believed that when Mango had killed the big snake the hyena was producing the sound in amazement of what Mango had done.

Bukusu Cultural Spirits And Beliefs

cultural beliefs