The seven symbols of Kwanzaa are displayed together in a dedicated space in the home during Kwanzaa. They serve as the inspiration for decorating during the season. Many families keep a kinara on display throughout the year as a visual reminder of the principles that should govern our living throughout the year.
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Kikombe cha umoja (Unity cup)
Traditionally, everyone drinks from the unity cup to reinforce the necessity of the unity of our people to secure group survival. Today the Kikombe cha umoja (kee-COMB- bay, cha, oo-MOE-jah) serves as a reminder that, "If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." (Ibo proverb)
Mazao (Crops)
The Mazao (mah-ZAH-oe) are symbolic of the rewards of productive and collective labor, and the many African harvest celebrations that served as the inspiration for the creation of Kwanzaa.
Muhindi (Ears of corn)
African cultures are child centered. Ears of corn are symbolic of our children and our future which they embody. One ear of corn is displayed for each child in the household. One ear of corn is displayed if there have been no children living in the home yet, as a symbol of the potential for children. Muhindi (moo-HEEN-dee).
Mkeka (Straw mat)
The mat represents the Motherland Africa. It also represents our beloved African ancestors who are responsible for our being here and on whose shoulders we stand. All of the other symbolic items are placed on the mkeka (mmm-KAY-kah).
Kinara (Candle holder)
The candle holder holds the candles that represent each of the seven principles. The Kinara (kee-NAH-rah) represents our parents who have the primary responsibility of upholding the principles for us by example, teaching them to us, and assuring that we internalize and live them.
Mishumaa Saba (Seven candles)
The seven candles represent the seven principles. The black candle represents the people and the principle Umoja (unity). It is always lit first. The red candles are placed to the left of the black candle and the green candles are placed to the right. The rest of the candles are lit from left to right - always red before green - because effort/work/struggle must be put forth before we reap and enjoy the benefit/bounty/results that we desire.
Zawadi (Gifts)
Gifts are given mainly to children. A gift should be handmade, or a book, or a heritage symbol, or other cultural gift. The giver gives more of herself in a handmade gift. Handmade gifts de-emphasive consumerism, materialism and excess. Books emphasize the African value and tradition of learning stressed since ancient Kemet (Egypt). The heritage symbol reaffirms and reinforces the African commitment to our tradition and history.
Examples of appropriate gifts include: homemade food item ~ homemade craft or utilitarian items ~ a book, especially book that reinforces our culture ~ tickets to a cultural event (concert, play) ~ a gift certificate for use in a Black-owned business ~ running errands for the recipient!