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Ushirikina and Misguided Beliefs: Unpacking Superstition and Socio-Religious Bias in Swahili

Domaine:

natural language processing

Type de record:

paper
Créateur:
K.D
Éditeur:
Pro
Hôte:
Abstract: This contribution to the Discussion Forum on the uses of “superstition” examines the shifting meanings of ushirikina in Swahili, tracing how missionary-linguists, colonial authorities, and contemporary Muslim, Christian, and secular speakers use the term to label beliefs as misguided, blasphemous, or unscientific. By comparing dictionary definitions, religious discourse, and everyday usage, the study reveals that ushirikina does not neatly map onto the English “superstition.” Instead, it functions as a perspectival category deployed to judge others’ practices. I propose a more accurate definition: a belief or action seen as misguided, foolish, or blasphemous, highlighting the term’s evaluative and rhetorical power.

Languages

Swahili

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