pema na kimia
pema na kimia is the Lingala way to say rest in peace.
The phrase is used as a blessing or an expression of hope.
Meaning: blessing or expression of hope (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally means 'sleep in peace', where kimia means 'peace'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase pema na kimia is in the imperative mood, functioning as a wish or prayer for the deceased.
Did you know?
- In Lingala, you can use the word kimia as a verb to tell someone to 'be quiet' or 'calm down' during an argument.
- The word pema in this context is actually a loanword from the Kongo language, showing how different Bantu languages exchange vocabulary through trade and contact.
- In many Central African cultures, the concept of 'peace' (kimia) is often tied to the absence of conflict and the settling of spirits, making the phrase more about spiritual stillness than just physical quiet.
Examples in context
- Pema na kimia, mwana na ngai.Rest in peace, my child.
Example conversation
Jean and Patientine are visiting a grave.
- JeanNazali kokuya mpo na kopesa limemya.I am coming to pay my respects.
- PatientineTo lingi asala pema na kimia.We want him to rest in peace.
- JeanEe, apema na kimia liboso ya Nzambe.Yes, may he rest in peace before God.
- PatientineAmen, ezala ndenge wana.Amen, let it be so.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries na, pema, CC BY-SA 4.0.
