The various Kalenjin sub-tribes still value the place of superstitions as part of their culture and traditions.
Both the young and elderly recognize superstitions as accurate indicators of what should be expected.
For instance, the Marakwet sub-tribe that that is found in Uasin Gishu and Elgeyo Marakwet counties hold the following superstitions;
1. When an owl howls at your home at night, you curse it away by throwing burning embers at it
An owl hooting within the environs of your homestead at night signals that death is going to strike in that specific household. However, the misfortune brought by this strange bird can be avoided only by throwing burning embers at it. If possible, the bird should be killed.
2. When on a journey and your left foot or toe knocks at a stone, you postpone the journey because it is a sign of bad luck
Knocking your left toe on a stone is bad luck. It is not that something bad is going to happen, but the mission may never go as planned. For instance, if you are on a mission to see a friend then you find your left toe knocking on a stone, it means the person might not be around. To avoid disappointment, you just abort the mission.
3. When you spot a witch at night, make sure you hit her till she sheds some blood
Kalenjins loathe witches and anyone found is usually condemned to death. Known witches are never allowed to interact with other members of the community. If you happen to come across one, then you must ensure that you hit the witch with anything available until some blood ooze out of his or her body. The shedding of blood by the alleged witch will mean that you are safe.
4. Do not go on a war when your wife is expectant
This is a warning that a man whose wife is expectant should never accompany warriors heading for a battle with an enemy. If such a man goes to the battlefield, the chances of returning home safely are very slim. Such men are usually barred from going to battles till when their wives give birth.
#MyLifestyle