Libation Ceremony (African Tradition)

Libation is a traditional African ceremony in which water is poured on the ground in the four directions that the wind comes from in remembrance and honor of the couple’s ancestors, calling on them to be present to witness the marriage. Often a family elder does the honors, and guests respond o the blessing with the word ase, meaning “so I may be.” Here is a sample libation prayer:

All praise to God Almighty. Praise o our African ancestors and roots. God gave his power for the roots of the trees to spread its branches wide. If man does not know his roots, then he does not know his God. Let the spirit of God and ancestors bring us closer in unity.

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