DEMYSTIFYING AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY SUMMIT presents a dialogue between Makhulu Thambolenyoka and Joy Mogami on the Ascension Path in African Spirituality.

This interview was an awakening for me as a teacher in ancestral medicine and spirituality. Conducted in 2020, during the coronavirus pandemic, it uncovered many aspects of different people on personal, psychological, emotional, and spiritual levels. Many individuals experienced epiphanies regarding their gifts, either declining or rising. I found myself at a crossroads, questioning my true path. Many who seek my guidance often refer to this interview, where I explain how Christianity and ubungoma cannot be mixed, as both practices have distinct foundations. In Christianity, Jesus is the head, whereas in ubungoma, an ancestor (idlozi) is the head, both serving as guiding figures. In Christianity, Jesus states that the way to his Father is through him. In ubungoma, most healers refer to themselves as custodians of the gift, acting as mouthpieces for the ancestors. Engaging in both practices reveal their similarities, as both involve fear and worship: Christians worship Jesus, and sangomas worship the ancestor who bestowed the gift upon them.

Drawing from my experience as someone endowed with the ability to heal, teach, and train in both ancestral and spiritual gifts, I recognize that both have their own schools, memberships, and hierarchical structures. Throughout my journey, I found myself more intimidated by my ancestors when I misunderstood what the path required from me. My spiritual gift was greatly hindered because ubungoma overshadowed it. I lacked a deep understanding of my spiritual ancestor, as the most prominent ancestor was the mnguni/makhosi ancestor leading the impande. They were at the forefront, and although I taught spirituality, it was insufficient. Even my students struggled to comprehend the teachings or to practice spirituality alongside their traditional healing gifts.

This interview helped me see that my journey had been uneven, perplexing, and challenging. I've realized that many others face the same issue. They have no idea what to do except go along with the flow, stay on track, comprehend the task, and so on.