List 45: Differences between the possession types

List 45: The differences between the possession types.

The differences between the possession types according to the general public in Chibale, Survey 1985/86.

1. Though only a few claim not to know that there are different possession types, about a quarter of them are unable, or unwilling, to mention a difference.
2. This answer refers to the different works of the possession types.
3. Some possession types are regarded as typically Lala, others as coming from outside. Lala types are Kaluwe and Ciwila. The spirits come from the mulundu, the higher land between rivers, which is associated with the mpanga and the ancestral cult. Mwami comes from outside, in this case the Lenje and Lima regions. Mwami spirits come from the rivers (nika). Rivers are associated with chieftainship and ecological cults for agriculture (rain). In Zambia chiefly cults are generally more connected to agriculture than to hunting¹Compare, for instance, van Binsbergen (1981a: 8)..
4. Depending on their work, the spirits come during the day, for hunting (Kaluwe), during the day and night for singing and dancing (Ciwila), and during the night (Mwami), when healing and diagnostic sessions are held. In the Lenje and Lima regions, and in town, Lala Ciwila possession is known for its ‘dancing during the day’.
5. Under the menu item Repertoires > Songs and Dances > Songs and dances in detail descriptions of the (songs and) dances of the various possession types can be found.
6. Under the menu item Repertoires > Songs and Dances > Songs and dances in detail descriptions of the songs (and dances) of the various possession types can be found.
7. Here, emphasis is laid on the type of possessing spirit. Kaluwe: spirits of ancestors, commonly great hunters, some of whom were Kaluwe mediums themselves when alive. Ciwila:  spirits of ancestors,  only some of whom were great singer/dancer/bringer of new songs themselves when alive. And, Mwami: spirits of chiefs and important headmen from the Kaonde-Lamba-Lenje-Lala area.
8. In connection with mediums, ‘to dance’ often means ‘to play an important role at public rituals’. Mediums of all three types dance and are the starters of the songs on certain occasions. The purpose for all is to ensure the ritual succeeds. The Ciwila mediums are special in this respect because they are expected to bring new songs and dance in a very lively way. In short, they are to carry the ritual.