Shembe Church members begin pilgrimage to eKhenana mountain

Thousands of devoted members of the Nazareth Baptist Church, popularly known as the Shembe Church, have commenced their annual pilgrimage to the sacred mountain of eKhenana, situated north of Durban.

This revered spiritual journey, which spans over 60km, is a major event for the eBuhleni faction of the church.

The pilgrimage began with a vibrant New Year’s Day celebration, marked by men carrying shields and sticks (imboko), gathering outside the temple gates, singing traditional hymns. Following the blessings bestowed by church leader Inkosi Mduduzi Shembe, the faithful were granted permission to embark on their sacred journey.

Rooted in Zulu culture, the Nazareth Baptist Church is one of South Africa’s most traditional and spiritually significant congregations, incorporating the presence of amakhosi (Zulu chiefs) in its practices.

Speaking on behalf of the eBuhleni Home, Thokozani Mncwabe highlighted the deeper significance of this year’s pilgrimage.

“This year, we carry the issue of femicide in our hearts,” said Mr Mncwabe. “We seek divine intervention in the fight against the killings of women, particularly the elderly and children. We also pray for a society free from social ills and for a fresh, positive start to the new year,” he said.

During the pilgrimage, participants adhere to a strict spiritual discipline, including refraining from consuming yeast-containing foods.

On the holy mountain, pilgrims engage in various spiritual and cultural activities, including umgidi (cultural celebrations), communion (isidlo), and other sacred rituals. These activities foster unity, reflection, and a reaffirmation of faith.

The pilgrimage also provides a platform for community-building events, such as opportunities for unmarried men to choose future wives. Marriage ceremonies are conducted for couples who are ready to formalise their unions.

“We encourage members to marry and establish strong, faith-based families,” added Mr Mncwabe.

The Nazareth Baptist Church holds a close connection to the Zulu royal family. Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini was baptised into the church last year, further strengthening the ties between Zulu culture and Shembe faith practices.