In this article we will explore Xhosa calendar, a topic that has captured the attention of experts and hobbyists alike. Xhosa calendar is a topic that has been the subject of debate in contemporary society, awakening the interest of various disciplines and sectors. Throughout history, Xhosa calendar has been the protagonist of important events that have marked the evolution of humanity, and its relevance continues in today's world. Through detailed, multidisciplinary analysis, we aim to shed light on the many aspects that make Xhosa calendar such an intriguing and significant topic. Through the exploration of its origins, implications, and future projections, we hope to offer the reader a deeper and broader understanding of Xhosa calendar, thereby broadening their perspective and knowledge on this fascinating subject.
This article appears to be a dictionary definition. (May 2023) |
The following is a list of timekeeping terminology in the isiXhosa language.
The traditional isiXhosa names for months of the year poetically come from names of stars, plants, and flowers that grow or seasonal changes that happen at a given time of year in Southern Africa.
The Xhosa year traditionally begins in June and ends in May when the brightest star visible in the Southern Hemisphere, Canopus, signals the time for harvesting.
In urban areas today, anglicized versions of the months are used, especially by the younger generation, but in the rural areas of the Eastern Cape, the old names still stand.
Month by month they are, in relation with:
English | IsiXhosa | Explanation of the months |
---|---|---|
January | EyoMqungu | month of the tambuki grass |
February | EyoMdumba | month of the swelling grain |
March | EyoKwindla | month of the first fruits |
April | UTshazimpunzi | month of the withering pumpkins |
May | UCanzibe / EyeCanzibe | month of Canopus |
June | EyeSilimela | month of the Pleiades |
July | EyeKhala / EyeNtlaba | month of the aloes |
August | EyeThupha | month of the buds |
September | EyoMsintsi | month of the coast coral tree |
October | EyeDwarha | month of the lilypad or yet tall yellow daisies |
November | EyeNkanga | month of the small yellow daisies |
December | EyoMnga | month of the acacia thorn tree |