Time and Eldership in Torrobo World view

Abstract

The Ceremony of Eldership among the Torrobo of Kenya is conducted at the death of the oldest male family member to ensure continuity in family leadership and synergize the three dimensions of Torrobo time in the event. The ritual passing of the family mantle from the deceased father to his eldest son is an example of reference to the cultural past in order for a person to perceive the present in the fullness of Torrobo wisdom. A ritual text of prayers is spoken to obligate the divine in matters of the family and remind the in-coming elder of his dependence on Enkai, the Supreme Being. At the Ceremony of Eldership, the elder son automatically becomes an age-mate of his father's age-set which serves to link one generation with another in notions of obligation and time continuity.