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Lesson 1
Introduction to Family
Understanding family structure in Zulu culture
Family in Zulu Culture
Family (umndeni) is central to Zulu culture. The extended family system means many relatives are considered close family. Respect for elders is paramount.
Kinship Terms
Zulu has specific terms for maternal vs paternal relatives. Your father's brother is 'ubaba omncane' (younger) or 'ubaba omdala' (older), not just 'uncle'.
Respect (Hlonipha)
The hlonipha tradition means certain words are avoided when speaking to or about elders. Married women traditionally don't use words containing syllables from in-laws' names.
👨👩👧👦 Family Vocabulary
general
family
general
relative
general
home
general
to respect