At the weekend, the king had his Enyokeni palace graced by thousands of members of the Ebuhleni faction of the Nazareth Baptist church.
Led by their leader Mduduzi “Unyazilwezulu” Shembe, the people held a service lasting two days, known as umgidi.
The service forms part of the build-up to the first fruit festival, or umkhosi woselwa, which will take place next Wednesday.
It’s part of Zulu culture and is held annually to thank God for rain, food and other blessings.
Royal spokesman Prince Thulani Zulu said Shembe is the oldest African church and its founder built a strong relationship with Zulus.
“History tells us that Prophet Isaiah visited the Zulu royal family to pray and give holy guidance to King Dinuzulu,” said Zulu.
“Isaiah’s daughter Zondi later married the king.
“The aim of the gathering over the weekend was for the church to bring a message of peace and tolerance to King Zwelithini.
“As we approach umkhosi woselwa, we pray to God that he grants the king more strength. We’ve been inviting the church here since 2013.”
Ebuhleni spokesman Thokozani Mncwabe said everything went well and they were honoured to be at the king’s palace.
“The Zulu royal family is like family to us,” he said.
“We’re grateful that they are still holding on to what they learnt from Prophet Isaiah.”
