AFRICA: RITES OF PASSAGE
RITE OF BIRTH
 Introduces the child to the world through a
ritual and naming ceremony.
 Africans believe infants come from spirit
world.
 Name is given after the Elders figure out what
its mission is in life.
RITE OF ADULTHOOD
 Usually done around age of puberty (12-13
years old).
 Offers guidance to children.
 Children taken away from group and taught
all things about the adult world and how to
act in the group.
 These rites can often be harsh.
RITE OF MARRIAGE
 Marriage is centered around creating/raising
a family.
 Joins two people, but also two life missions.
 Individuals often not considered an “adult”
until they get married and have children.
RITE OF ELDERSHIP
 Elders represent tradition and wisdom of the
past.
 Elders are given the highest status in African
society due to living a purposeful life.
 Role models for younger children/adults.
RITE OF ANCESTORSHIP
 Elders become Ancestors.
 Link between humans and God.
 Often called upon in times of need.
Medicine Man
 Rite of Birth
 Rite of Adulthood
 Rite of Marriage
 Rite of Eldership
 Rite of Ancestorship