RANAKOMBE
allyHero
Ranakombe is the diviner of the Malagasy epic Ibonia. Consulted by Rasoabemanana, the prince's barren wife, he helps her conceive a child by means of rites and infusions of plants, while warning her that this birth will be exceptional and heavy with consequences. He announces the long gestation and the extraordinary destiny of the future hero Iboniamasiboniamanoro, and takes part in the circumstances of his coming into the world. His figure illustrates the central role of divination, the sikidy, in the universe of the epic and in the traditional Malagasy religions. Ranakombe is not documented outside the cycle of the Ibonia, where he holds the role of the sage who makes the hero's birth possible.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
Sentinel of the hearth. RANAKOMBE keeps the domestic thresholds where human life is woven. Bound to the Malagasy pantheon.
Sacred Mask
An ancient ritual mask of sacred wood, old metal and black stone, engraved with symbols of diviner, embodiment of the power of Ranakombe
Era
Ancient cycle
Frequently asked questions
What is Ranakombe's role in the epic Ibonia?
He is the diviner who helps Rasoabemanana, long barren, to conceive the hero Ibonia, while announcing the exceptional and dangerous character of this birth.
How does he help the hero's mother?
According to the versions, he resorts to rites and infusions of plants, prescribes trials and foresees a very long gestation before the child's coming.
What does this character represent?
He embodies the importance of divination, the sikidy, in the epic and in the traditional religions of Madagascar.
Related spirits
Sources and references
- Lee Haring, How to Read a Folktale: The Ibonia Epic from Madagascar, Open Book Publishers, 2013