Kinara definitions
| Word backwards | aranik |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | ki-na-ra |
| Plural | The plural of kinara is kinaras. |
| Total letters | 6 |
| Vogais (2) | i,a |
| Consonants (3) | k,n,r |
Kinara: Exploring the Tradition and Meaning
Rooted in South Asian culture, a kinara is a traditional candle holder used during Kwanzaa celebrations. This symbolic object typically holds seven candles, each representing one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The kinara plays a vital role in the week-long Kwanzaa festivities, symbolizing unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
Significance of the Kinara
During Kwanzaa, the lighting of the kinara symbolizes the guiding principles of the holiday. Each candle represents a core value that individuals strive to uphold throughout the year. The center black candle, known as the mishumaa saba, represents unity among people of African descent. It is lit first, followed by the green and red candles, which signify hope for the future and the struggle for freedom, respectively.
Materials and Design
Kinara designs may vary, but they often feature a wooden base with separate candle holders. Some kinaras are intricately carved with cultural symbols and patterns, reflecting the rich heritage of the African diaspora. The colors used in kinara designs are typically red, black, and green—colors that hold special significance in African culture.
Celebrating with the Kinara
Throughout the seven days of Kwanzaa, families gather around the kinara to light a new candle each evening. This ritual is a time for reflection, storytelling, and honoring African traditions. The kinara serves as a focal point for the celebration, bringing loved ones together to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of Kwanzaa.
Whether displayed in homes, community centers, or places of worship, the kinara stands as a powerful symbol of heritage, unity, and cultural pride. Its presence during Kwanzaa serves as a reminder of the values that bind communities together and the importance of honoring the past while looking towards the future.
Kinara Examples
- During Kwanzaa, the kinara holds seven candles to represent the Seven Principles.
- The kinara is traditionally placed on a mat called a mkeka during Kwanzaa celebrations.
- Lighting the kinara is an important part of each night of Kwanzaa.
- Some families pass down a kinara from generation to generation.
- The kinara symbolizes the African roots of Kwanzaa.
- Each candle in the kinara represents one of the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.
- The kinara is usually made of wood or metal and can be decorated with various colors and designs.
- Children often take turns lighting the candles in the kinara during Kwanzaa celebrations.
- The kinara is placed in the center of the Kwanzaa table as a focal point of the celebration.
- The kinara is a beautiful and symbolic centerpiece for Kwanzaa festivities.