LUMBU
allyHero
Lumbu is, in a Kongo (Bakongo) origin myth, the masculine half born of the separation of Mahungu, the primordial androgynous being. According to the narrative, Mahungu, perfect and two-headed, splits in two on contact with a sacred tree: thus are born Lumbu, the man, and a feminine figure called Muzita. Marriage is there understood as an attempt to reunite the two halves once joined. A figure little documented in the accessible academic sources, known above all through collections of Kongo folklore, with variants of names according to the versions.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
Voice of its pantheon. LUMBU carries the memory of its tradition and weaves a thread into the Mabioni. Bound to the Bakongo pantheon.
Sacred Mask
An ancient ritual mask of sacred wood, old metal and black stone, engraved with symbols of first man, embodiment of the power of Lumbu
Era
Ancient cycle
Frequently asked questions
Who is Lumbu in Kongo mythology?
Lumbu is the masculine half born of the separation of Mahungu, the androgynous and perfect being of Kongo cosmology. When Mahungu splits, he gives birth to Lumbu, the man, and to Muzita, the woman.
What does this separation mean?
The narrative explains the difference of the sexes and presents marriage as an attempt to reunite the two halves once joined in Mahungu. The names of the two beings nevertheless vary according to the versions collected.
Are there solid sources on Lumbu?
The accessible academic sources are limited. Lumbu appears above all in collections of Kongo folklore, where the myth of Mahungu circulates in several variants, which invites caution as to the details.