The meaning of totemism

The totem is an ancient cultural phenomenon, linked to the origin of humankind and religion. This is according to University of Namibian (Unam) Oshiwambo lecturer Petrus Angula Mbenzi, who explained that a totem could be an object or animal that is a source of inspiration to a clan. It is believed that it has the power to protect. Mbenzi said it is difficult to establish the clear origin of the totem, despite attempts by several scholars. According to him, totem comes from the Indian word ototeman, meaning my kin, which refers to a blood relationship between people. He further explained that within clans, people believe they are associated with animals. The academic said people live together with animal and plants. “We co-exist with them and tend to show respect to plants and animals. We have animals that are dangerous and we fear some animals like the lion or elephant. Out of this fear, certain tribes of the world decided to align this fear to their clan and established a close relationship with the animals,” he said. He added that one should show respect to the associated animal and should not eat it, as it is family. Mbenzi said, for example, the Tswanas of South Africa call a crocodile “father”. He said the Tswanas believe their source of inspiration comes from this particular animal. He said this takes place across the world. Mbenzi says that people in Australia believe a snake is their father or elder brother. In history, people were challenged by hunger and when they came across the plants that fed them, they ended up worshiping these, because it saved them. In ancient times people would not eat or harm an animal associated with their clan. “You would be taken to court or killed,” he sayd. Totems also helped people do away with tribalism. “People will not have tribal tendencies if they promote totemism. You will not hate someone who belongs to a certain tribe, because you have clan members there.” He explains that he recently met someone from the Zambezi Region and they told him they belong to a buffalo clan. He has also met someone of Tswana descent who belonged to the same clan. He said the most common totems one finds in the world are snakes, dogs and lions, among many others. Totems and culture Mbenzi says a totem shows who a people or clan are. “If you belong to a clan, you demonstrate your rules and behaviour. When you praise yourself, you tell people about the way you live and show your qualities.” He believes if young people are taught about totemism from an early age, they will be convinced to interact with each other very well. According to the Oshiwambo tribe, there are certain clans regarded as royalty, such as the Aatundu, Akuusinda and Aakwanekamba.