Kalûnga Line

Kalunga is a term originating from the Bantu languages of Central and Southern Africa, particularly associated with the Kimbundu and Kikongo languages. It is often translated as "the other side" or "the great beyond," and it represents a complex spiritual concept that encompasses the afterlife, the realm of the ancestors, and the cosmic forces that govern existence. In the context of African Traditional Religions, particularly those practiced by peoples such as the Kongo, Kalunga is a fundamental concept that influences various aspects of life, including divination, healing, and community rituals. The term has also been adopted and adapted in various African diasporic religions, such as Candomblé and Umbanda in Brazil, where it retains its spiritual significance. In Hebrew, there is no direct equivalent, but the concept can be loosely associated with terms like ha-olam ha-ba (העולם הבא), which refers to the world to come or the afterlife. Similarly, in Portuguese, it is sometimes translated as "o outro lado" or "o além," both of which convey the idea of the otherworldly realm. Kalunga is not only a spiritual concept but also a cultural one, deeply embedded in the traditions and practices of the communities that uphold it.