By EPN Reporter
MBABANE – Did you know that it is not every time when one is expected to kneel when addressing the King or any figure of authority in the country?
Yes, it is not always a requirement to kneel when addressing the King or any influential person in the country. According to Africa Briefing (www.africabriefing.com), for many, this dilemma may seem trivial, but within the rich traditions and social norms of this Southern African kingdom, it carries significant weight.
In Eswatini, the customs surrounding the proper way to address an elder or authority figure are deeply ingrained. To stand or remain seated while addressing someone of higher status may be perceived as disrespectful or ill-mannered. There is an unspoken expectation, a cultural nuance, that dictates the appropriate posture and demeanour in various contexts.
For instance, the act of crawling, or approaching on one’s knees, is reserved for specific occasions within the Royal residences, particularly when seeking a direct audience with the king. It is a gesture of respect and reverence, a demonstration of humility in the presence of royalty.
However, in public forums or formal settings, the protocol shifts. Here, one is expected to stand up from their seat and approach the podium to address the king directly, without the need for crawling. It’s a subtle but significant distinction, reflecting the nuanced etiquette of Eswatini’s cultural landscape.
What’s striking about these customs is their organic nature. “They are not dictated by laws or regulations but are rather spontaneously expressed and upheld by the Emaswati people. There are no sanctions or punitive actions associated with deviating from these norms, yet the consequences are clear – a perception of being culturally unaware or lacking in proper grooming,” Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo was quoted as saying by Africa Briefing.
In essence, the etiquette surrounding interactions with royalty in Eswatini is rooted in courtesy and tradition. It’s about understanding the nuances of cultural posture and practice, whether it’s standing tall in a public forum or humbly kneeling in the presence of the king.
So, to crawl or not to crawl? In Eswatini, the answer lies in the context, the setting, and above all, the deep respect for tradition and cultural norms that permeate every aspect of life in this vibrant kingdom. The King usually addresses Emaswati and other people from other countries during public events such as Buganu, National Prayer, Umhlanga, Incwala and other events. During such events, there are instances where people kneel, but some usually address the King while standing or slightly banding. Sometimes, Emaswati usually offer gifts to the King in Royal Residences, where they usually kneel when addressing him.
