Diphiri Make The Bed For The Dead

Dan Mosekaphofu
Correspondent | Monday September 17, 2007 00:00

Those who pay particular attention to our cultural beliefs and systems will always acknowledge their presence and importance. They represent an integral part of the Tswana culture that permeates the cultural convictions of almost all the different tribes in this country.

These are the Diphiri, as they are popularly known. In some quarters, they are referred to as 'Baepi ba mabitla or Babaakanyi ba motse'. Despite the different name tags or labels, these people play a very crucial role during the difficult times of mourning. Their main responsibility is to prepare the final resting place of the departed individuals. They can be seen digging at burial sites in preparation for the funeral.

According to 48-year-old Molefi Banani of Tonota, 'The concept of Diphiri is a very ancient tradition. It remains one of the few remnants of our traditional belief system or practice that has managed to survive the battering that our culture continues to receive from foreign cultures or new ways of life that are slowly taking root in our society'. Banani explains that,' The main task of these people is to dig the graves for the dead'.

He reveals that all able bodied man in the village are expected to partake in this very important exercise. 'All physically fit men are expected to participate in this digging process. Women are however excluded from such an exercise because we respect and care about them,' he says with a smile.

The 66-year-old Molwantwa Maebe of Tonota echoes his sentiments. 'In the past, young men who one way or the other refused or failed to participate in the digging of graves were punished. Participation at such an activity was a must,' he says.

Maebe also says that, 'Usually the group leaves the home at night to go and prepare the grave. An elder who is experienced in the preparation of graves will lead them. He will be the one who will be in control and his instructions and recommendations are to be followed accordingly,' Maebe explains.

The 50-year-old Jeffery Nyepi of Mathangwane concurs with both Maebe and Banani. He explains that after digging, the Diphiri will head back home where there is a funeral. Upon arrival, they don't mix with other people.  They will sit alone'.

He continues to reveal that; 'They will then be given food that has been specifically put aside for them. They will enjoy this food and later disperse to their respective homes to prepare for the next day's work - burial'.

According to Nyepi, 'During the burial, the Diphiri will be hard at work filling up the grave and working on the decorations that are to be done on the grave,' he explains.

Nyepi hails the Diphiri system as a very important and useful concept. 'It does not only help during funerals but it goes along way in helping to establish and maintain the social cohesion that acts as a basis for the unity of the community. It is one of those social lubricants that should be maintained and encouraged,' he says.