Abstract:
Travellers on the N4 highway just east of Pretoria can see evidence of a sacred spring next to
the road with pilgrims moving around the landscape and collecting water. This research
explored this place – called ‘En Four’ by some – and described visits and conversations had at
the site in 2024. The first part of the research narrated the encounters and recorded the local
and anecdotal knowledge shared by pilgrims and visitors. The research then analysed the
religious significance of the water-based rituals using Rodney Stark’s religion-sociological
theory of religion: it identified evidence of magic, prayer, ritual and mysticism. Finally, a
number of findings considered the use, value and care of water at this religious site: En Four
offers various religious experiences, contributes to mental and physical health and may
enhance social cohesion and understanding.
CONTRIBUTION: This research recorded an important, but still undocumented, religious site, as
well as the activities and rituals enacted at this place. It interpreted the African water-rituals
uniquely from a religion-sociological perspective, also indicating its significance for both
individuals and society. This contributed to an interreligious dialogue on, and reappreciation
of water as being holy and transformative.
