Ashe Enkai
The English phrase 'thank you God' is translated into Maasai as Ashe Enkai.
Ashe Enkai is used as an expression to show gratitude to a deity.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ashe, meaning 'thank you' and Enkai, meaning 'God'.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Southern Maasai Dialect, the phrase Enkai ashebo may be used.
Did you know?
- The word Enkai represents a deity who is both male and female. Depending on the weather or mood, Enkai is referred to as Enkai Narok for the black god and Enkai Nyokie for the red god.
- When expressing gratitude, the word ashe functions as a verbal marker of appreciation that can be adapted depending on whether you are thanking one person or a group.
- The concept of Enkai predates the arrival of Christianity in East Africa, though the word is now used by Maasai Christians to translate the English 'God'.
Examples in context
- Ashe Enkai.Thank you God.
- Ashe Enkai, nanyokie.Thank you God, for everything.
Example conversation
Sianayian and Kinyoro are discussing a successful harvest.
- SianayianKinyoro, ashe Enkai tula aite.Kinyoro, thank you God for our food.
- KinyoroEe, ashe Enkai tula aite.Yes, thank you God for our food.
- SianayianTula loolo eitau.The rain was good.
- KinyoroEe, tula loolo eitau.Yes, the rain was good.
