lala ngokuthula
To say "rest in peace" in Zulu, use lala ngokuthula.
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 lala ngokuthula literally translates to "sleep in peace".
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase lala ngokuthula, the verb lala (sleep) is in the imperative mood, which is used here to express a wish or command for the deceased.
Did you know?
- Zulu culture emphasizes the 'living dead' or ancestors, so lala ngokuthula is often addressed to someone who is no longer physically present but is still considered an active member of the family.
- In some contexts, the root lala can also be used in a playful or scolding way to tell a child to 'go to sleep' or 'be quiet', creating a stark contrast with its solemn use in lala ngokuthula.
- The word okuthula comes from the verb thula, which can mean both 'to be peaceful' and 'to be silent' or 'be quiet'.
Example conversation
Thulani and Nomalusa are attending a funeral service.
- ThulaniKunzima kakhulu ukulahlekelwa nguye.It is very hard to lose him.
- NomalusaYebo, kodwa manje makalale ngokuthula.Yes, but now let him rest in peace.
- ThulaniSizomkhumbula njalo.We will always remember him.
- NomalusaLala ngokuthula, mkhulu.Rest in peace, grandfather.
