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The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

Why Some Souls Are White and Others Black African Folktale

Black purifies with waters which are fit for sacrifice, pure, and divine. Why Some Souls Are White and Others Black is a West Africa Republic of the Congo African Folktale.

In many religious, philosophical and mythological traditions, the soul is the incorporeal essence of a living being.
Black purifies. 

Why Some Souls Are White and Others Black

It was in the beginning, and four men were walking through the woods and came upon two rivers. One river was of water, clear as crystal and of great clarity; the other was murky, frightful, and horrifying to the taste.

The four men were puzzled as to which river they should cross; for, whereas the dirty river seemed very difficult to pass, the clear river was easier to cross.  The men, after some discussion, thought that they should cross the black river, and two of them at once crossed it.

The other two, however, barely touched the black water and returned to the edge of the woods. The two men that had crossed the river called to their two companions urging them to cross, but in vain. They had already determined to leave their companions and to cross the clear white river.

However, after they crossed, they were surprised to find that they had become black; the two who had crossed the black river, however, were a white color.

The two parties now traveled in different directions and this is why some souls are white and some black.

Black purifies the body, mind and soul
African Folktale moral of the story

Links to more African Folklore

In everyday life African folklore teaches lessons with ancient words of wisdom.

Baboon Shepherd African Folklore

The Bird That Made Milk African Folklore

Legend of Deepest Darkest Africa

Rabbit Angered Moon African Folktale

Nkasa Tree Test for Witches


Chic African Culture and The African Gourmet=

How Are You Feeling Today? Find an African Proverb or Story to Match Your Mood

How Are You Feeling Today?

Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

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Folklore Meets Science

Folklore Meets Science
African stories that explain the universe

African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

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African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions