enkanyit Enkai
To say "praise God" in Maasai, use enkanyit Enkai.
This phrase is used as an expression to show gratitude or to give glory to a deity.
Did you know?
- In Maasai culture, Enkai is often associated with the color black, which represents the benevolence and rain-giving nature of the deity.
- The word Enkai refers to a deity who is believed to be both male and female, embodying both masculine and feminine qualities simultaneously.
- The word enkanyit is deeply connected to the concept of 'respect' rather than just 'praise'. In Maasai culture, honoring the divine is inseparable from the social requirement to show profound respect to others.
Example conversation
Kinyoro and Siana are celebrating a successful harvest.
- KinyoroEnkanyit Enkai, oleng'en eitua!Praise God, the rain was good!
- SianaEe, tushindi nanyokie.Yes, we have succeeded greatly.
- KinyoroTapaane enkanyit Enkai tishani.Let us give praise to God together.
- SianaEe Kinyoro, tishani.Yes Kinyoro, together.