LIBANZA
allyGod
Libanza is a figure of the traditions of the peoples living along the Congo river, notably the Boloki and the Upoto, sometimes attached to the Bangala ensemble. His function varies according to the narratives. Among the Upoto, he is venerated as a creator god at the origin of the universe. Among the Boloki, he appears rather as a heroic ancestor, the first man, endowed with powers of metamorphosis. Several narratives say he was born of a mother who gave birth to all the animals, his shield, his spears and his seat coming out of the maternal womb before him. A myth of the origin of death is associated with him. He summoned the peoples of the moon and those of the earth. The people of the moon, who came first, received a cyclical renewal, while the people of the earth, having arrived late, were doomed to a death without return.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
Weaver of the currents. LIBANZA watches over the flow of the waters and the fluid memory that binds the worlds within the Mabioni. Bound to the Bangala pantheon.
Sacred Mask
An ancient ritual mask of sacred wood, old metal and black stone, engraved with symbols of creation and floods, embodiment of the power of Libanza
Era
Ancient cycle
Frequently asked questions
Who is Libanza?
A figure of the Boloki and Upoto mythologies of the Congo river region, sometimes a creator god, sometimes a heroic ancestor and first man according to the tradition considered.
Which myth is associated with Libanza?
A narrative on the origin of death. The peoples of the moon, having answered his call first, obtained a cyclical renewal, while the peoples of the earth were condemned to die definitively.
Is Libanza everywhere a creator god?
No. Among the Upoto he is presented as the supreme creator, but among the Boloki he holds above all the role of a first man with powers of metamorphosis.
Related spirits
Sources and references
- Wikipedia (EN), Libanza
- Godchecker, notice Libanza
- Récits recueillis chez les Boloki et les Upoto du bassin du Congo