RUHANGA
allyGod
Ruhanga is the creator, celestial god recognised by the peoples of the interlacustrine region of Uganda grouped under the name of Banyakitara, including the Nyoro (Banyoro), the Nkore, the Tooro, the Kiga and the Haya. His name means 'the one who creates'. He is said to have separated the earth from the sky, adorned the latter with stars, then created human beings and everything necessary to their life. One narrative tells that he planted three seeds from which men came forth, serving to found the social groups of Nyoro society. A distant and omnipotent creator, Ruhanga remains remote, rarely invoked or prayed to directly, and plays scarcely any role in ritual. He is considered at once the source of children, cattle and harvests, and the author of sickness, suffering and death. The cult is addressed rather to his envoys and intermediary spirits.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
Blacksmith of the Cycle. RUHANGA transmutes matter through the sacred flame and keeps the tools of the thresholds. Bound to the Banyoro pantheon.
Sacred Mask
An ancient ritual mask of fired clay, bronze and fossilised roots, engraved with symbols of creation and fertility, embodiment of the power of Ruhanga
Era
Ancient cycle
Frequently asked questions
Who venerates Ruhanga?
The peoples of the interlacustrine region of Uganda grouped under the term Banyakitara, including the Banyoro, the Nkore, the Tooro, the Kiga and the Haya, recognise him as creator.
Why is Ruhanga little prayed to directly?
He is perceived as a creator too distant and powerful to be approached. The faithful address themselves rather to his children, messengers and spirits, judged more accessible.
How is Ruhanga said to have created humans?
One narrative tells that he placed three seeds in the earth, from which were born men subjected to a trial that determined their role in Nyoro society.
Related spirits
Sources and references
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruhanga
- https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ruhanga