Values

[Olùkọ́ Ọbádélé]

Values

The value system of any people or culture lies deep within every member of that society, and is caught over years of being a part of of it. It is not formally taught. It will determine how decisions are made and who makes them. It will control the actions of its members. The value system is made up of several or many different values.

Most individuals are not even aware that they are operating based on a set of rules because they are invisible, yet imbedded within their psyche dictating their actions, goals and lifestyle.

A few of the basic values in Wolof society are:

1.

njaboot/mbokk—family is sacred
2.

kersa—being prudent, tactful, respectful, and dignified
3.

fayda—self-confidence, self-esteem, personality

One should have an abundance of kersa and fayda. Pride is a mark of the Wolof.

4.

sutura—discretion
5.

teraanga—hospitality
6.

teggin—knowing one's place in society
7.

jom—determination to succeed
8.

kollere—gratefulness, relationship
9.

mun—patience
10.

muus—being clever; there is a deep admiration for cunning; getting the best of a stronger, richer neighbor is applauded.
11.

group conformity—an individual does not have a valuable opinion, only a group consensus is valid; personal decisions are strange and not natural
12.

jaam

Taboos

1.

To marry someone weaned from the same breast.
2.

To marry out of one’s social caste.