DJOK
neutralSpirit
Djok, more often written Jok, designates among the Alur, a Nilotic people of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, spiritual power and the ancestral spirits. The term covers a reality at once personal and impersonal, ranging from a higher principle to the spirits of the dead. The Alur ancestors can manifest in the form of serpents or great stones, honoured with prayers and sacrifices in sanctuaries or near sacred trees. In times of drought, for example, a black goat was sacrificed to Jok to obtain rain. The notion of jok is found, in close forms, among other Nilotic peoples such as the Acholi, the Shilluk or the Luo.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
Ferryman of souls. DJOK ensures the circulation of souls and prevents stagnation between the worlds. Bound to the Alur pantheon. Its alignment depends on the invoker's protocol.
Sacred Mask
An ancient ritual mask of vegetable ivory, amethyst and sacred wood, engraved with symbols of ancestors, embodiment of the power of Djok
Era
Ancient cycle
Frequently asked questions
What is the djok among the Alur?
A spiritual power encompassing the spirits of the ancestors, understood now as a higher principle, now as the spirits of the dead.
In what forms do the ancestors manifest?
Notably in the form of serpents or great stones, venerated in sanctuaries or near sacred trees.
Is the notion of Jok proper to the Alur?
No. It is found among several Nilotic peoples, such as the Acholi, the Shilluk or the Luo.
Related spirits
Sources and references
- Jok (spirit), Wikipedia (en)
- Encyclopædia Britannica, article jok