Five Fascinating Myths and Legends From Ancient African Cultures (Video)

Africa’s mythological traditions are rich and diverse, offering a window into the beliefs of its ancient cultures. One enduring legend is the Tokoloshe, a creature feared across southern Africa.

Descriptions of the Tokoloshe vary, but it is generally portrayed as a small, hairy figure with black eyes and, disturbingly, a very large penis that it throws over its shoulder. Known for causing mischief and harm, this creature is said to bring physical and psychological torment to its victims.

The Jok, from the Acholi people of Uganda and South Sudan, represents a complex deity that functions both as a creator god and a class of spirits. Jok is said to have shaped the world and placed celestial bodies in the sky. According to legend, he once invited humans to the heavens to partake in the fruits of the Tree of Life, but they refused, and he granted immortality to the sun, moon, and stars instead.

The Hole in the Wall is a famous Xhosa legend tied to a natural rock arch along South Africa’s Wild Coast. The story speaks of a girl who fell in love with a sea-dwelling man, who broke through a cliff separating a lagoon from the ocean to claim her as his bride. The girl disappeared into the sea, never to be seen again.

In the Khoikhoi tradition, Heitsi-eibib is a heroic figure known for his cunning and supernatural powers. He is best known for defeating a monster called Ga-Gorib by tricking it into falling into its own deadly pit.

Finally, the Grootslang, or “Big Snake,” is a terrifying creature from the Richtersveld region of South Africa. Described as a giant serpent-elephant hybrid, the Grootslang is believed to live in a deep sinkhole, guarding a hoard of diamonds. Some say it is so massive that it can swallow entire cattle, and legends speak of treasure hunters who disappeared trying to claim its fortune.

Top image: Tokoloshe newspaper headline, December 7, 1955, on sale in a bookstore in the 19th District, Vienna, Austria.                        Source: Toanke/CC BY-SA 3.0

By Robbie Mitchell