The symbolic interpretations of the Asante spokesman’s staff designs and ceremonial swords

Symbolism reigns in the Ghanaian community. Therefore, the designs of the spokesman’s staff, a special staff in the hands of the spokesman who plays the role of mediator between the chief and his subjects in the Asante ethnic society in the Ashanti region of Ghana, have symbolic meanings. Also, at ceremonies, Asante chiefs hold some ceremonial swords while being transported on palanquins. These swords are also placed before the chief when he is seated among his subjects during the ceremony. They also have some designs that have symbolic meanings. These must be understood by residents and visitors who attend festivals and other equally significant gatherings where these symbolic elements are used.

ceremonial swords

These are specially carved or cast swords used for royal ceremonies. They are usually arranged in a semicircular or horseshoe shape in front of it. They fulfill various functions in society. They signify the social position of the clan, group or state in terms of strength, wealth and attitude. The ceremonial sword is an important symbol of statecraft. It has spiritual and political associations. They are used for ritual and festive events. Identifies kings and chiefs and distinguishes them from other members of society during state functions. They are used to carry oaths during defecation. A great warrior who is retiring in the Ghanaian community is often presented to serve as recognition of his bravery, devotion and courage, thus qualifying him as a warrior chief. The ceremonial sword also symbolizes the safe conduct during the purification rites of the caciques and ancestral state stools and for display. In contemporary Ghana, ceremonial swords are also used as symbols of ambassadorial rank.

Ceremonial swords are usually decorated with animal motifs in gold that have a symbolic character. Examples of these symbolic animals and their philosophical meanings are described below.

1. The lion: means strength, power and strength.
2. The Crab- Signifies simplicity and peace.
3. The eagle: represents greatness, superiority and the determination to succeed.

spokesperson staff

A spokesperson is a mediator between the chief and the people in the traditional council. In Ghanaian society, it is not appropriate for a chief to address his subjects directly and it is considered disrespectful for a member of society to address a chief directly. Therefore, the responsibility of a spokesperson is to communicate messages from the king to the people and vice versa. As a special sign or symbol denoting his office, the spokesman has a special cane. The top of the staff has proverbial symbols that vary from clan to clan. Most of the symbols on the tops of the canes take the form of humans, animals, and fruit.

The animals or objects that are used as mouthpieces on top of the staff are often clan and family totems. A totem is an animal or object that has a strange association or special relationship with a group or clan. It is believed that the animal or object may have provided a special aid or assistance to the founding ancestor or ancestor of the clan that ensured the survival of the clan and its members. Members of a particular clan are usually claimed to exhibit traits of the mythical animal that serves as the totem.

Some of the symbols at the top of the spokesperson staff are explained below.

1. A hand holding an egg: This is a warning to those in authority about how they are supposed to exercise their authority. The symbol indicates that the power is like a raw egg. When clamped too tightly it breaks and when clamped too loosely it can also fall off. Therefore, those in authority should not be too strict or too weak or lenient. Although they have to be firm and consistent, at the same time they have to be understanding.

2. Three heads carved together: This reminds us that one head cannot go to council and that it is important to consult others before decisions are made for the whole society. This reveals why a king often consults his traditional council members and the president, members of the council of state, on a matter before making a decision.

3. The Chameleon: ‘Slowly but surely in action’. The animal means patience and perseverance.

4. A bird with its head thrown back – The bird is made to pick something up from behind. The Sankofa bird is usually depicted. It indicates that it is not wrong or taboo to go back to look for something that has been left or forgotten. It shows that we can always correct our mistakes when we notice them or are pointed out to us.

5. The Crab- This teaches the fact that a crab always gives birth to its kind. This explains the fact that children often inherit behavior from their parents.

6. A snail and a tortoise (represented alone or sometimes with a weapon) – These animals are very peaceful. A representation of them symbolizes peace and harmony. The symbol indicates the fact that if only the snail and the tortoise existed, there would be no need for war between neighbors.

7. Tortoise- When depicted alone, it symbolizes independence and self-sufficiency.

8. Porcupine- This animal symbolizes the warlike nature, always ready for war.

9. A pineapple: This fruit reminds us that things should always be done at the right time. This is because the pineapple is plucked and eaten only when ripe, otherwise it tastes sour. It is a warning to all that things done in a hurry are often not done well.