Jankunu: A Journey from Evil to Entertainment — Jankunu is a traditional masquerade of the Caribbean islands, especially popular in Jamaica as well as in, Bahamas, Belize, Guyana, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, US Virgin Islands. It is normally a male-only ritual that is performed during the Carnival celebrations.
The Jankunu dancers wear elaborate costumes and masks made of wood, cloth, and paint. They perform a series of dances and songs that are meant to be humorous and satirical, however there are strong overtones of evil and satanic worship.
The origins of Jankunu are unknown, but it is believed to have been created by enslaved Africans in the 18th century. The word “Jankunu” is thought to be derived from the Efik word “joku,” which means “to play or dance.”
According to sources: “The Jankunu masquerade is a complex and multifaceted tradition. It is a form of social commentary that allows people to express their opinions about current events and social issues. It is also a form of entertainment that provides an outlet for creativity and self-expression.”
Why Jankunu Is Evil
The Jankunu mask is a key element of the tradition. It is typically made of wood and is decorated with paint, feathers, and other materials. The mask is meant to be frightening and grotesque, and it is often used to represent evil spirits or demons hence why this tradition should be omitted from the customs of the people.
Countries That Practice Jankunu (John Canoe)
Jankunu, also known as John Canoe, is a vibrant cultural tradition celebrated in several Caribbean countries, including:
- The Bahamas: Junkanoo is the most widely recognized form of Jankunu, celebrated with elaborate parades and competitions in Nassau and other islands during the Boxing Day and New Year’s Day holidays.
- Belize: The Habinahan Wanaragua Jankunu Festival, held on the last Sunday of December, is a prominent Jankunu celebration in southern Belize, featuring colorful costumes, rhythmic drumming, and lively dances.
- Jamaica: Jankunu, also known as Jonkonnu, has a long history in Jamaica, dating back to the time of slavery. It is traditionally performed during the Christmas season, with masked figures parading through the streets and engaging in lively interactions with spectators.
- Guyana: Jankunu is celebrated in Guyana, particularly in coastal regions, during the Christmas and New Year’s season. It features masked performers, rhythmic drumming, and lively dances, often incorporating satirical and social commentary.
- Cayman Islands: Jankunu, known as “Juncunu” in the Cayman Islands, is celebrated during the Christmas season,particularly in Grand Cayman. It features masked performers, rhythmic drumming, and lively dances that reflect the island’s cultural heritage.
- United States Virgin Islands: Jankunu, also known as “Jonkonnu” in the Virgin Islands, has a long history dating back to the time of Danish rule. It is celebrated during the Christmas season, particularly in St. Thomas and St.Croix, with masked figures, rhythmic drumming, and lively dances.
These are just a few of the countries where Jankunu or John Canoe is celebrated. The tradition has evolved and spread throughout the Caribbean.
Further Proof On Why Jankunu Is Evil
The Jankunu dancers wear the mask to transform themselves into these evil characters. They then perform a series of dances and songs that are meant to be humorous and satirical. The dancers often use their performances to make fun of politicians, celebrities, and other public figures.
The Jankunu masquerade is a popular tradition in Trinidad and Tobago. It is a source of pride for many people, and it is an important part of the country’s cultural heritage.
However, there are persons who do not believe that Jankunu is evil, bad, or satanic. Laughable hanging on to the coat tails of “the ancestors” while plunging themselves further into doom, and utter-darkness, perpetuating evil practices.
The masquerade is a form of devil worship that can lead to negative consequences, both spiritually and culturally. The masks and costumes are instruments of evil used symbolical to ‘put on’ and celebrate the devil. The dances and songs are meant to invoke evil spirits and much like halloween it promotes darkness, boldly!
There’s irrefutable evidence supporting what is obvious and evident, that Jankunu is evil and satanic and must be left back in the past. It is a foolish tradition that has been performed for ‘centuries’ under different headings and guise.
For some, Jankunu is seen as a positive force that can help to bring people together and promote social commentary, while others see nothing more than a pointless satanic tradition and I share the sentiments of the latter.
Conclusion
The belief that Jankunu is evil, is rooted in a fear for God, those who perform these practices are either ignorant or lack fear of God. It is important to remember that Jankunu is a complex and multifaceted tradition to the ignorant, and may seem harmless due to it’s entertainment, and self-expression. However this custom is evil, satanic and must become obsolete.
