An unusual way to bury the dead in Tete,Mozambique.

In 2012, I witnessed a unique and somber ritual in the remote village of Cabvurancie, nestled within the Tete province of Mozambique. The burial of a revered elder was unlike any I had ever seen.

Instead of the traditional grave, her body was laid to rest in a simple, open-air shed constructed from local wood. A makeshift table held her reed coffin, which was then placed in a secluded forest.

The villagers warned us, “The hyenas will come for her. Do not look back.” I tried to resist the urge, but curiosity overcame me. I glanced back, only to see the dense, ominous forest.

Later, I inquired about this unusual practice. The villagers explained that the woman was not just an elder; she was believed to be possessed by the spirit of "mphondoro," the lion. This spiritual connection dictated a special burial, honoring her significant role in their society.