The linguistic authoritativeness of Monyala ka pedi as a principle of negotiating marriage

Abstract

The article seeks to correct the common perception that bohadi is paid as a bride price. It argues that the misuse of language, significantly distorts meaning, resulting in misunderstanding of its original true meaning. The purpose of this article is to argue that the Basotho principle monyala ka pedi effectively reflects that bohadi is not paid, but given, as an expression of gratitude and as a symbol of respect for culture. We argue that African ontology becomes more prominent in bohadi negotiations. Therefore, it is unthinkable that the ancestors would be excluded when the quantum of bohadi is considered.

Keywords: Basotho, culture, negotiating marriage, mahadi, ilobolo.