Shaka “Sigidi” “Mlilwana” ka Senzangakhona
Emperor Shaka the Great (aka “Sigidi ka Senzangakhona”), who was murdered on this day, 24 September 1828, is often reputed as a warrior to have said to his forces in his hey days:
“Never leave an enemy behind … or it will rise again, to fly at your throat.”
In his praise songs, Shaka was called:
UNodumehlezi ka Menzi!ILembe eleq’ amanye amalembe ngokukhalipha,Izulu elimagwababa likaMageba,Elidume phezulu kuNomangci,Ladum’ emva komuzi eKuqhobokeni laqanda,Lazithat’ izihlangu zaMaphela naMankayiya,Amabheqan’ eZimpaka asal’ ezihlahleni!
Translated to say:
The Celebrated Descendant of MenziThe Axe that overcame other axes by its sharpness,The Black thunder like crows, son of Mageba,That thundered above Nomangci,That thundered behind the household at Kuqhobokeni and became cold,Seized the shields of the Cockroaches and the Invaders,The little leather skins of the Midgets were left hanging on the trees!
In most instances, Shaka is often linked to the Viking saying:
“If they stand behind you, give them PROTECTION.If they stand beside you, give them RESPECT.If they stand against you, show them NO MERCY!”
As a lone Warrior who fought valiantly against his enemies, it is maintained that Shaka Zulu always believed and expressed that:
“A man who must build the road to the heavens must travel alone.”
Shaka ka Senzangakhona, who is well-known globally as an outstanding military s
