Basotho culture is infused with spiritual beliefs. What they believe is an important part of their society, both individually and communally.

Ancestral Worship
The Basotho believe that the spirit leaves the body after death but still hovers nearby. Death does not signify the end of human relationships. Those who die enter the spirit world, where they are invisible but just as present as before. Deceased ancestors stay close by, as part of the family, sharing meals and maintaining an interest in family affairs. Their presence is often acknowledged, particularly at meals. Small portions are set aside on their behalf.

Most believe that God is a “supreme being” and view their ancestors as an essential link between the physical and spiritual world. Ancestors are thought to possess a super-human status with special powers that can benefit or harm the family. Because of those powers, they are considered mediators between God and man. Prayers are offered to them so that they can beseech God and intervene on behalf of their living family.

There is an immense amount of fear associated with ancestors, since they have the ability to bless or curse their family. The ancestors must be appeased by a variety of ritual offerings. In times of extremity, expensive gifts may be offered to them to gain relief or enlist their help in protection from sickness or other misfortunes.

Traditional Doctors
The Basotho consult traditional doctors (called sangomas) to receive remedies for sickness, mixtures for prosperity, and counsel on appeasing their ancestors. Their services are offered in exchange for a fee. While sangomas have a deep knowledge of herbs and therapeutic techniques, they are also masters of black magic and the use of supernatural powers. Because of their ability to place curses and bring bad fortune, there is a fear of them and their powers.

Sangomas are very influential in Basotho society. Through the mediation of the ancestors, they diagnose and treat various diseases, help people with their personal problems, and prevent bad things from happening.

What about Christianity?
Most Basotho believe in aspects of Christianity, but many practice ancestral worship on the side as well. Few people see any real conflict between Christianity and their traditional beliefs; many happily practice both simultaneously.

Often, Christians privately retain their loyalty to the traditions of ancestral worship, especially in times of serious misfortune. When face-to-face with death, famine, or infertility, many African Christians resort to traditional rites and beliefs. Some churches affirm African traditions as essential to the Christian faith and encourage participation in the ancestor cult as a part of the Christian life.