Jabulani Means Rejoice is a dictionary comprised of hundreds of
African names in local South African languages, meticulously assembled
and expounded upon for the curious reader. Names are listed in
alphabetical order with gender indications, as well as information
regarding their ethnographic origins and meanings. Yet, Jabulani Means
Rejoice is so much more than simply a list of names and their meanings.
The author skilfully interweaves cultural context and history, including
issues surrounding naming rituals, domestic disputes and the curse of
the evil eye. As a reference work, the book stands as an invaluable
contribution to the growing interest in African cultural history. With
its names ranging from the traditional to the unconventional, it will
appeal to linguists, family historians and anyone with an interest in
names.