Month: September 2023

Afrikaans folklore, also known as Afrikaner folklore, refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, legends, and cultural practices of the Afrikaner people, who are descended from Dutch, German, French Huguenot, and other European settlers in South Africa. Afrikaans is one of South Africa’s official languages, and Afrikaner folklore reflects the cultural heritage and history of this ethnic group. Here are some key elements and figures from Afrikaans folklore:

1. San and Khoikhoi Influences: Afrikaner folklore has been influenced by the indigenous San (Bushmen) and Khoikhoi cultures of southern Africa. Some elements of their myths, rock art, and spiritual practices have been incorporated into Afrikaner folklore.
2. Voortrekkers and Historical Figures: The Great Trek of the 1830s and 1840s, during which Afrikaner settlers moved inland to escape British rule, is a central theme in Afrikaner folklore. The historical figures and events associated with the Voortrekkers, such as Piet Retief and Andries Pretorius, are celebrated in folk stories and commemorated in monuments.
3. Tales of Adventure: Afrikaner folklore includes stories of pioneers, adventurers, and explorers who faced the challenges of the African wilderness. These tales often emphasize the resilience and resourcefulness of the Afrikaner people.
4. Cultural Traditions: Afrikaner folklore is closely tied to cultural traditions, including music, dance, and cuisine. Traditional songs and folk dances, such as the “volkspele” dance form, are integral to Afrikaner culture.
5. Ghosts and Hauntings: Like many folklore traditions, Afrikaner folklore features stories of ghosts, hauntings, and supernatural occurrences. These tales often have a strong sense of place and history.
6. Farm Life: Many Afrikaner folk stories center around farm life, including the challenges and joys of agricultural work. The farm and the veld (countryside) are recurring themes in Afrikaner folklore.
7. Music and Poetry: Folk songs, hymns, and poetry have played a significant role in preserving and conveying Afrikaner folklore. Notable poets like C. Louis Leipoldt and Eugene Marais have contributed to this tradition.
8. Slang: Afrikaners have developed their own unique slang and idiomatic expressions, which are often part of their folklore. These expressions reflect aspects of their culture and history.
9. Voëlvry Movement: In the 1980s, the Voëlvry (literally “outlawed”) movement emerged as a countercultural and musical movement among Afrikaner youth. It challenged the conservative aspects of Afrikaner culture and became a significant cultural force.
10. Modern Adaptations: In contemporary South Africa, Afrikaans folklore continues to evolve and adapt to modern circumstances. Folk stories and traditions are often reimagined and incorporated into literature, music, theater, and other forms of cultural expression.

Afrikaner folklore is an important part of South African cultural heritage, and it reflects the complex history and identity of the Afrikaner people. It continues to be celebrated and preserved as an integral aspect of the broader South African cultural mosaic.

South African folklore is a rich and diverse tradition that encompasses the oral stories, myths, legends, and cultural practices of the various ethnic groups and communities within South Africa. Due to the country’s multicultural nature, South African folklore reflects a wide range of cultural influences, including indigenous African traditions, European colonial legacies, and more recent global influences. Here are some key elements and figures from South African folklore:

1. Creation Myths: Like many African cultures, South African folklore often includes creation myths that explain the origin of the world, humanity, and the natural elements. These myths vary among different ethnic groups but often emphasize the role of a supreme being or divine force.
2. Ancestor Worship: Ancestor veneration is a common practice in South African folklore. Ancestors are believed to continue to influence the lives of their descendants, and rituals and offerings are performed to honor and seek their guidance and blessings.
3. Nature Spirits: South African folklore includes a belief in spirits associated with natural elements, such as rivers, mountains, and animals. These spirits are often considered protectors and guardians of the land.
4. Trickster Figures: Many South African folklore traditions feature trickster figures, such as the Hare (known as “Haas” or “Ihaas” in Afrikaans), who are clever and mischievous characters. These figures often serve to teach moral lessons and entertain through their antics.
5. Mythical Creatures: South African folklore includes various mythical creatures, such as the Tokoloshe, a small, malevolent spirit; the Grootslang, a legendary serpent-like creature; and the Impundulu or Lightning Bird, associated with storms and lightning.
6. Rituals and Ceremonies: South African cultural practices and rituals are an integral part of folklore. These rituals often mark significant life events such as birth, initiation, marriage, and death, and they involve storytelling, music, dance, and symbolic acts.
7. San and Khoikhoi Traditions: The San (Bushmen) and Khoikhoi peoples of South Africa have their own unique folklore traditions, which include rock art, trance dances, and storytelling. These traditions are some of the oldest on the continent.
8. Xhosa Folklore: The Xhosa people have a rich oral tradition that includes stories about their legendary warrior, Hintsa, as well as tales of heroism, magic, and the supernatural.
9. Zulu Folklore: Zulu folklore features stories about their legendary kings and heroes, as well as myths about the origin of the Zulu people and their customs.
10. Modern Adaptations: In contemporary South Africa, folklore continues to evolve and adapt to modern circumstances. Folk stories are often reimagined and incorporated into literature, theater, and other art forms.

South African folklore is a vibrant and evolving tradition that reflects the country’s complex history and multicultural society. It plays a vital role in preserving cultural identities, conveying moral lessons, and providing entertainment and spiritual guidance to various communities throughout South Africa.

Moroccan mythology, also known as Moroccan folklore or Amazigh mythology, refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, and religious practices of the people of Morocco. Morocco is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and its mythology reflects a blend of indigenous Amazigh (Berber) traditions, Islamic influences, and other historical and regional influences. Here are some key elements and figures from Moroccan mythology:

1. Amazigh Mythology: Indigenous Amazigh (Berber) traditions play a significant role in Moroccan mythology. These traditions include beliefs in deities, spirits, and natural elements, as well as a strong connection to the land and ancestors.
2. Islamic Influences: Islam is the predominant religion in Morocco, and Islamic beliefs and practices have had a substantial impact on Moroccan mythology. Many Moroccans incorporate Islamic beliefs into their daily lives and religious practices.
3. Jinns: Similar to other North African and Islamic cultures, Moroccans believe in jinns (spirits) that can be either good or malevolent. Jinns are often associated with natural elements, such as deserts, caves, and rivers. Moroccan folklore includes stories of encounters with jinns and rituals to protect against their influence.
4. Saints and Sufi Orders: Moroccan mythology is influenced by the veneration of saints and the presence of various Sufi orders. Many Moroccans visit the tombs of saints and engage in rituals seeking their intercession for blessings and guidance.
5. Nature Spirits: Moroccan mythology includes a belief in spirits associated with natural features like mountains, forests, and bodies of water. These spirits are often seen as protectors of the land and are revered through offerings and ceremonies.
6. Legends and Folktales: Moroccan folklore is replete with legends and folktales passed down through generations. These stories often feature supernatural beings, heroes, and moral lessons. Some famous Moroccan folktales include those of the Aïsha Kandisha, a seductive female jinn, and the Barqan, a mischievous forest spirit.
7. Rituals and Ceremonies: Morocco has a rich tradition of rituals and ceremonies associated with various life events, including births, marriages, and deaths. These ceremonies often blend indigenous traditions with Islamic customs.
8. Henna and Symbolism: Henna is an important element in Moroccan rituals and ceremonies. It is used for body decoration, particularly during weddings and celebrations. Henna designs often include symbols and patterns with specific meanings.
9. Art and Crafts: Moroccan mythology and culture are expressed through various art forms, including pottery, textiles, carpets, and calligraphy. These crafts often incorporate symbolic motifs and designs.
10. Modern Adaptations: In contemporary Morocco, there is a continued interest in preserving and revitalizing traditional folklore and mythology. Efforts are being made to document and celebrate Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.

Moroccan mythology reflects the country’s unique cultural diversity and historical influences. It is a living tradition that continues to shape the identities and practices of the Moroccan people, both in rural and urban settings.

Berber mythology, also known as Amazigh mythology, refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, and religious practices of the Berber people, an indigenous ethnic group native to North Africa. The Berber people inhabit regions across Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Mali, Niger, and other parts of North and West Africa. Berber mythology is rich and diverse, reflecting the cultural and spiritual heritage of these indigenous communities. Here are some key elements and figures from Berber mythology:

1. Amazigh Religion: Historically, the Berbers practiced indigenous religious traditions that were polytheistic and animistic in nature. These traditions were closely tied to the natural world, with a focus on deities and spirits associated with the land, water, and sky.
2. Goddesses and Gods: Berber mythology includes a pantheon of deities, many of which were associated with specific natural elements and phenomena. For example, the goddess Tanit was associated with fertility and the moon, while the god Baal Hammon was linked to the sun and agriculture.
3. Ancestor Worship: The Berbers have a strong tradition of ancestor veneration. Ancestors were believed to continue to influence the lives of their descendants and were honored through rituals, offerings, and celebrations.
4. Nature Spirits: Berber mythology includes a belief in spirits associated with natural features like mountains, forests, and bodies of water. These spirits were seen as guardians and protectors of the land and were often propitiated with offerings and ceremonies.
5. Animals and Totems: Some Berber clans had totemic animals or plants that were considered sacred and served as symbols of the clan’s identity. These totems were believed to have a special connection to the clan’s ancestors and deities.
6. Creation Myths: Berber mythology often includes creation myths that explain the origin of the world and humanity. These myths vary among different Berber communities and regions but often feature themes of cosmic order and balance.
7. Rituals and Ceremonies: Berber religious practices involved a wide range of rituals and ceremonies, including rites of passage, agricultural festivals, and healing rituals. These ceremonies were essential for seeking blessings, protection, and spiritual guidance.
8. Oral Tradition: Berber mythology has traditionally been transmitted orally through storytelling, songs, and rituals. Knowledge was passed down from generation to generation by elders and spiritual leaders.
9. Modern Adaptations: With the spread of Islam and, later, Christianity, many Berbers converted to these religions, leading to the blending of traditional beliefs with monotheistic faiths. However, elements of Berber mythology and culture continue to be preserved and adapted to modern circumstances.

Berber mythology is highly diverse, with variations among different Berber tribes and regions. While traditional Berber beliefs have been influenced by Islam and other external factors over the centuries, elements of their indigenous mythology and culture remain an integral part of their identity and heritage. Efforts have been made in recent years to revive and preserve Berber traditions and languages, including aspects of their mythology.

Somali mythology refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, and religious practices of the Somali people, who are an ethnic group primarily residing in the Horn of Africa, including Somalia, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and parts of Kenya. Somali mythology is a complex and diverse system that has evolved over time, influenced by Islam and other neighboring cultures. It encompasses a range of beliefs, spirits, and folklore that reflect the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Somali people. Here are some key elements and figures from Somali mythology:

1. Supreme Being: In Somali mythology, there is a belief in a supreme being often referred to as “Waaq” or “Eebbe.” Waaq is considered the creator of the universe and the source of all life. While Islamic influences have led to the predominance of Islam in Somalia, traditional beliefs in Waaq still persist among some segments of the population.
2. Ancestral Spirits: Ancestor veneration is a fundamental aspect of Somali culture and spirituality. The spirits of deceased ancestors are believed to continue to influence the lives of their descendants and are honored through rituals and offerings.
3. Jinn: In Somali folklore, jinn are supernatural beings with the power to possess or influence humans. Jinn can be both good and malevolent, and they are often invoked in healing and exorcism rituals.
4. Nature Spirits: Somali mythology includes a belief in spirits associated with natural elements, such as trees, rocks, and rivers. These spirits are considered protectors of the land and are venerated through rituals and offerings.
5. Creation Myths: Somali mythology likely includes creation myths that explain the origin of the world, humanity, and the various aspects of the natural world. These myths often involve the actions of the supreme being or divine beings in shaping the cosmos.
6. Rituals and Ceremonies: Somali religious practices involve a variety of rituals and ceremonies, including those related to birth, marriage, and death. These rituals often blend Islamic and traditional elements.
7. Oral Tradition: Somali mythology is primarily transmitted orally through storytelling, songs, and rituals. Elders and spiritual leaders play a crucial role in passing down cultural and mythological knowledge to younger generations.
8. Taboos and Morality: Somali mythology often includes moral guidelines and taboos that govern behavior within the community. Violating these taboos is believed to bring misfortune or anger the spirits.
9. Modern Adaptations: Somali mythology has evolved over time and continues to adapt to modern circumstances while preserving its core cultural and spiritual values. It remains an important part of the cultural identity of the Somali people.

It’s important to note that Somali culture and mythology are diverse, and there may be variations in beliefs and practices among different Somali clans and regions. Additionally, the influence of Islam has had a significant impact on Somali culture and religious practices, leading to a blending of traditional beliefs with Islamic teachings.

Maasai mythology, also known as Maasai traditional beliefs, encompasses the rich and vibrant religious and cultural traditions of the Maasai people, a Nilotic ethnic group residing in East Africa, primarily in Kenya and Tanzania. Maasai mythology is deeply intertwined with their way of life, worldview, and cultural identity. Here are some key elements and figures from Maasai mythology:

1. Enkai (Engai): Enkai, also spelled Engai, is the supreme deity in Maasai mythology. Enkai is often described as a dualistic god, with two aspects: Enkai Narok (the black god) and Enkai Nanyokie (the red god). Enkai Narok is associated with benevolence, creation, and blessing, while Enkai Nanyokie is associated with vengeance, punishment, and misfortune. Enkai is believed to be the creator of all things and the provider of life and sustenance.
2. Nature Spirits: Maasai mythology includes a belief in various spirits associated with natural elements, such as mountains, rivers, and trees. These spirits are often considered intermediaries between humans and Enkai and are venerated through rituals and offerings.
3. Rain Rituals: Rain is crucial for the Maasai people due to their pastoral way of life. Rainmaking rituals and ceremonies are essential aspects of Maasai religious practice. These rituals are performed to invoke the favor of Enkai for bountiful rains and healthy livestock.
4. Ancestral Spirits: The Maasai venerate their ancestors, believing that the spirits of deceased elders continue to influence the lives of their descendants. Ancestral spirits are honored through rituals and offerings, and their guidance is sought in times of need.
5. Cattle and Livestock: Cattle are central to Maasai culture and spirituality. They are seen as a gift from Enkai and are highly valued for their role in providing sustenance and wealth. The Maasai perform rituals and ceremonies involving cattle, such as sacrifices and blessings.
6. Oral Tradition: Maasai mythology is primarily transmitted orally through storytelling, songs, and rituals. Elders and spiritual leaders are responsible for passing down cultural and mythological knowledge to younger generations.
7. Rites of Passage: Maasai communities have various rites of passage that mark significant life events, such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death. These rituals often have strong mythological and spiritual components.
8. Moran (Warrior) Culture: The Maasai have a distinct warrior culture, and their folklore often includes stories of bravery, battles, and heroic deeds of Maasai warriors (moran). These stories help define the cultural identity and valor of the Maasai.
9. Taboos and Morality: Maasai mythology often includes moral guidelines and taboos that govern behavior within the community. Adhering to these moral codes is believed to maintain harmony and avoid misfortune.
10. Modern Adaptations: Maasai mythology continues to evolve and adapt to modern circumstances while preserving its core cultural and spiritual values. It remains an important part of the Maasai cultural identity.

Maasai mythology reflects the Maasai people’s deep connection to the natural world, their cattle-based economy, and their spirituality. It plays a significant role in shaping their cultural traditions, social norms, and way of life.

Lotuko mythology refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, and religious practices of the Lotuko people, an ethnic group primarily residing in the eastern part of South Sudan. The Lotuko have a rich and unique mythological tradition that reflects their cultural and spiritual heritage. While detailed information about Lotuko mythology is limited due to its oral nature and the remote nature of their homeland, some elements and figures are known. Here are some key elements and figures from Lotuko mythology:

1. Supreme Deity: In Lotuko mythology, there is a belief in a supreme deity or creator often referred to as “Ajok.” Ajok is considered the all-powerful and all-knowing being responsible for the creation of the universe, the earth, and humanity.
2. Nature and Ancestral Spirits: Lotuko mythology includes a belief in spirits associated with natural elements, such as trees, rocks, rivers, and mountains. These spirits are often considered intermediaries between humans and the spiritual realm. Additionally, ancestral spirits are venerated and believed to provide guidance and protection to the living.
3. Creation Myth: Lotuko mythology likely includes creation myths that explain the origin of the world, humanity, and the first ancestors. These myths often involve the actions of Ajok in shaping the cosmos and human existence.
4. Rituals and Ceremonies: Lotuko religious practices involve various rituals and ceremonies. These rituals are performed to honor ancestral spirits, seek blessings for crops and harvests, and ensure the well-being of the community. Sacrifices and offerings may be part of these ceremonies.
5. Oral Tradition: Lotuko mythology is primarily transmitted orally through storytelling, songs, and rituals. Elders and spiritual leaders play a vital role in passing down cultural and mythological knowledge to younger generations.
6. Taboos and Morality: Lotuko mythology often includes moral guidelines and taboos that govern behavior within the community. Violating these taboos is believed to bring misfortune or anger the spirits.
7. Modern Adaptations: Lotuko mythology continues to adapt to modern circumstances while preserving its core cultural and spiritual values. It remains an important part of the cultural identity of the Lotuko people.

It’s important to recognize that Lotuko mythology, like many other African mythologies, is highly diverse, with variations among different Lotuko communities and regions. Each community may have its own unique stories and practices while sharing some common themes and beliefs. Additionally, the remote and isolated nature of the Lotuko homeland has limited outside documentation of their mythology, making it a deeply rooted and less studied tradition.

Kalenjin mythology encompasses the traditional beliefs, stories, and oral traditions of the Kalenjin people, who are an ethnic group native to the Great Rift Valley region of Kenya. The Kalenjin are made up of several subgroups, including the Kipsigis, Nandi, Pokot, Tugen, and others, each with its own unique folklore and cultural traditions. Kalenjin mythology plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage and passing down wisdom from one generation to the next. Here are some common elements and themes found in Kalenjin mythology:

1. Oral Tradition: Kalenjin mythology is primarily an oral tradition, with stories, proverbs, and songs being passed down through generations by word of mouth. Elders and storytellers play a significant role in transmitting this cultural knowledge.
2. Mythical Figures: Kalenjin mythology includes stories about mythical figures, often with supernatural abilities or qualities. These figures are used to explain natural phenomena, teach moral lessons, and entertain.
3. Creation Myths: Like many cultures, the Kalenjin have creation myths that explain the origin of the world, humanity, and the various aspects of the natural world. These myths often involve the actions of a supreme being or creator.
4. Trickster Figures: Kalenjin folklore features trickster figures who are often clever and mischievous. These characters may be used to convey moral lessons or to add humor to stories.
5. Animal Stories: Folktales about animals are common in Kalenjin folklore. These stories often anthropomorphize animals, giving them human-like qualities and personalities.
6. Proverbs and Sayings: Proverbs and sayings are an essential part of Kalenjin folklore. They are used to convey wisdom, offer guidance, and pass down cultural values and norms.
7. Rites of Passage: Many Kalenjin stories and folklore are connected to important life events and rituals, such as birth, initiation, marriage, and death. These stories help define the cultural significance of these events.
8. Healing and Medicine: Folklore and traditional practices related to herbal medicine and healing are integral to Kalenjin culture. Knowledge about the uses of various plants and remedies is often passed down through stories.
9. Spiritual Beliefs: Kalenjin folklore often reflects their spiritual beliefs, including the veneration of ancestors and the relationship between the living and the spiritual realm.
10. Modern Adaptation: While preserving their cultural heritage, the Kalenjin people continue to adapt their folklore to modern circumstances. Folk stories may address contemporary issues and challenges faced by the community.

Kalenjin folklore is a dynamic and living tradition that continues to play a crucial role in maintaining the cultural identity of the Kalenjin people and passing down their values, history, and wisdom to future generations.

Dinka mythology, also known as Jieng mythology, refers to the traditional beliefs, stories, and religious practices of the Dinka people, who are a Nilotic ethnic group primarily residing in South Sudan and parts of Sudan. Dinka mythology is deeply intertwined with the cultural and spiritual life of the Dinka people and reflects their worldview, cosmology, and traditions. Here are some key elements and figures from Dinka mythology:

1. Nhialic: Nhialic is the supreme deity in Dinka mythology. Nhialic is often depicted as a creator god who is associated with the sky and heavens. Nhialic is believed to be the source of all life and the protector of the Dinka people.
2. Spiritual Hierarchy: Dinka mythology includes a hierarchical system of spirits and deities who mediate between Nhialic and the human world. These spirits are often associated with natural elements, such as rivers, forests, and animals.
3. Spiritual Beings: Dinka mythology includes various spirits and beings, including ancestral spirits, nature spirits, and guardian spirits. Ancestor spirits are believed to watch over and guide the living, while nature spirits are associated with specific natural features.
4. Creation Myth: Dinka mythology includes creation myths that explain the origin of the world and humanity. These myths often involve Nhialic’s creative actions and the emergence of the first humans.
5. Rainmaker and Rain Rituals: Rain plays a vital role in Dinka culture due to their reliance on agriculture and cattle herding. Rainmakers, individuals believed to have special powers to influence the weather, are highly respected. Rituals and ceremonies are conducted to appease the spirits and ensure rainfall.
6. Cattle and Symbolism: Cattle are central to Dinka culture and spirituality. They are not only a source of sustenance and wealth but also hold deep symbolic significance. Cattle are often used in rituals, and their well-being is associated with the prosperity of the community.
7. Oral Tradition: Dinka mythology is primarily transmitted orally through storytelling, songs, and rituals. Elders and spiritual leaders play a crucial role in passing down cultural and mythological knowledge.
8. Rites of Passage: Dinka communities have various rites of passage that mark important life events, such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death. These rituals often have strong mythological and spiritual components.
9. Spirit Possession: Dinka religious practices may involve spirit possession, where individuals are believed to be inhabited by spirits during rituals or ceremonies. Spirit possession is a means of communication with the spiritual realm.
10. Moral Code: Dinka mythology often includes a moral code that governs behavior within the community. Adhering to these moral guidelines is seen as essential for maintaining harmony and avoiding misfortune.

Dinka mythology reflects the Dinka people’s deep connection to the natural world, their cattle-based economy, and their spirituality. It remains a fundamental part of their cultural identity and continues to influence their way of life in both traditional and contemporary contexts.

Kalenjin folklore encompasses the traditional beliefs, stories, and oral traditions of the Kalenjin people, who are an ethnic group native to the Great Rift Valley region of Kenya. The Kalenjin are made up of several subgroups, including the Kipsigis, Nandi, Pokot, Tugen, and others, each with its own unique folklore and cultural traditions. Kalenjin folklore plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage and passing down wisdom from one generation to the next. Here are some common elements and themes found in Kalenjin folklore:

1. Oral Tradition: Kalenjin folklore is primarily an oral tradition, with stories, proverbs, and songs being passed down through generations by word of mouth. Elders and storytellers play a significant role in transmitting this cultural knowledge.
2. Mythical Figures: Kalenjin folklore includes stories about mythical figures, often with supernatural abilities or qualities. These figures are used to explain natural phenomena, teach moral lessons, and entertain.
3. Creation Myths: Like many cultures, the Kalenjin have creation myths that explain the origin of the world, humanity, and the various aspects of the natural world. These myths often involve the actions of a supreme being or creator.
4. Trickster Figures: Kalenjin folklore features trickster figures who are often clever and mischievous. These characters may be used to convey moral lessons or to add humor to stories.
5. Animal Stories: Folktales about animals are common in Kalenjin folklore. These stories often anthropomorphize animals, giving them human-like qualities and personalities.
6. Proverbs and Sayings: Proverbs and sayings are an essential part of Kalenjin folklore. They are used to convey wisdom, offer guidance, and pass down cultural values and norms.
7. Rites of Passage: Many Kalenjin stories and folklore are connected to important life events and rituals, such as birth, initiation, marriage, and death. These stories help define the cultural significance of these events.
8. Healing and Medicine: Folklore and traditional practices related to herbal medicine and healing are integral to Kalenjin culture. Knowledge about the uses of various plants and remedies is often passed down through stories.
9. Spiritual Beliefs: Kalenjin folklore often reflects their spiritual beliefs, including the veneration of ancestors and the relationship between the living and the spiritual realm.
10. Modern Adaptation: While preserving their cultural heritage, the Kalenjin people continue to adapt their folklore to modern circumstances. Folk stories may address contemporary issues and challenges faced by the community.

Kalenjin folklore is a dynamic and living tradition that continues to play a crucial role in maintaining the cultural identity of the Kalenjin people and passing down their values, history, and wisdom to future generations.