Wedding songs by amaXhosa women of Idutywa

Abstract

In almost all African communities, any adult who has never married is looked down upon. The general perception is that the particular adult has no morals or does not have a good character. In the traditional African communities, parents train their girls to be become good wives, since Africans belief that a good wife is one who can make a home (i.e. she must be skilled in all the important home chores, looking after children, cleaning, washing, cooking and providing in the husband's social needs). Marriage is therefore an important institution and occasion among Africans. On the wedding day, the lucky young woman is officially handed over to her husband. It is an important occasion where women sing traditional songs, not only to show their happiness, but also to educate the bride and bridegroom. This article outlines and discusses some of the songs sung during the marriage ceremony and their important message for both the couple and other young people in the community.

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