The use of different types of water in the Zion Christian Church

Abstract

Humanity discovered the curative properties of water more than 4 000 years ago. This can be seen in the way in which people were drawn over time to natural resources such as springs, fountains, rivers and wells to wash in and drink from in the belief that they would be healed and their pains would end. African Independent Churches in South Africa also use water, one of the natural resources, to facilitate the completion of their rituals. Amongst these churches is the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), which will be the focal point of this article. An introductory section is followed by a brief historical background to the use of water. A discussion of the use of different types of water in the ZCC follows. Lastly, conclusions are drawn.