By Jensen Brian Abass Cummings

Exploring the Enigma behind Cultural Taboos and Superstitions

Sierra Leone, nestled along the West African coast, boasts a rich tapestry of cultural traditions and beliefs that have endured through generations. From the bustling city streets to the tranquil villages, tales of ancient superstitions and taboos continue to influence the lives of its inhabitants. But amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, the question lingers: Are these beliefs merely tales spun to deter certain actions, or do they hold genuine sway over the lives of Sierra Leoneans?

Delving Into the Mysteries:

Since childhood, Sierra Leoneans have been steeped in a myriad of traditional beliefs, passed down from ancestors and deeply ingrained in the fabric of society. These beliefs, whether whispered in hushed tones or boldly proclaimed, shape behaviors and perceptions in both urban and rural settings.

Let us journey into the heart of these beliefs, dissecting their origins and implications:

1. The Prohibition of Sitting on a Table: Elders caution against allowing children to perch atop tables, warning of future thievery. This taboo reflects a cultural emphasis on respect for property and social norms.
2. The Transformation of a Covered ‘Duck’ into a Snake: Covering a duck (doxs) in a basket is believed to provoke a supernatural metamorphosis into a snake. While seemingly illogical, this taboo underscores the reverence for ancestral objects and the fear of invoking wrath from the spirit realm.
3. The Ritual of Scratching Pumpkins before Transport: Scratching pumpkins before transport to avert tragic accidents during the journey hints at a blend of practicality and superstition, showcasing the intricate fusion of traditional beliefs with everyday life.
4. The Sale of Needles at Night: Selling needles at night is discouraged, with fears of nefarious intentions or spiritual repercussions lingering in the shadows. This taboo reflects the cautionary tales woven into Sierra Leonean folklore, cautioning against nocturnal transactions.
5. The Prohibition of Lifting Children at Night: Nighttime is shrouded in mysticism, with lifting children believed to invite malevolent spirits. This belief highlights the pervasive fear of the unknown that permeates Sierra Leonean culture after dark.
6. The Ban on Nighttime Charcoal Sales: Charcoal, a staple commodity, becomes a harbinger of misfortune when sold after nightfall. This taboo underscores the delicate balance between commerce and spiritual harmony, with repercussions extending beyond the material realm.
7. The Act of Sweeping and Disposing of Dirt at Night: Sweeping and discarding dirt at night is discouraged to prevent the expulsion of luck from the household. This belief underscores the deep-seated reverence for cleanliness and order intertwined with spiritual beliefs.
8. The Prohibition of Nighttime Outdoor Washing for Pregnant Women: Pregnant women are urged to refrain from outdoor washing at night to avert the birth of demon-like offspring. This taboo reflects the protective instincts ingrained within Sierra Leonean culture, shielding mothers and infants from perceived supernatural threats.
9. The Restriction on Nighttime Razor Blade Sales: Nighttime razor blade sales are curtailed, with implications veering into realms of safety and superstition. This belief serves as a precautionary measure against potential harm or misuse under the cover of darkness.
10. The Prohibition of Nighttime Grind Pepper Sales: Nighttime sales of grind pepper are forbidden, with repercussions ranging from bad luck to spiritual unrest. This belief underscores the interconnectedness of daily activities with broader cosmic forces, influencing even the simplest of transactions.

Navigating Tradition in a Modern World:

As Sierra Leone strides forward into the 21st century, the clash between traditional beliefs and Western influences becomes increasingly pronounced. Urbanization, globalization, and the spread of Christianity have all contributed to the erosion of traditional practices, relegating age-old beliefs to the realm of folklore.

Yet, despite these encroachments, echoes of tradition persist, serving as a poignant reminder of the resilience of Sierra Leonean culture. The question of whether to believe in these traditions remains a deeply personal one, with individuals straddling the line between skepticism and reverence for ancestral wisdom.

In conclusion, the enigma of Sierra Leonean traditional beliefs persists, weaving a tapestry of myth and reality that continues to captivate hearts and minds. Whether viewed through the lens of logic or superstition, these beliefs offer insights into the complexities of cultural identity and the enduring legacy of tradition in an ever-changing world.

Copy right –Printed in the Expo Times News on Wednesday, March 20th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)