Ngundeng Pyramid
Bi̱ɛh Ŋundɛ̈ŋ
Pyramid of DengTath also known as Pyramid of Dengkur, was a large mound shrine constructed by our very own prophet Ngundeng Bong (died 1906) at the end of the nineteenth century and added to by his son Guek Ngundeng (died 1929). The Pyramid, which was around 300 feet in circumference and 50 to 60 feet tall, cone-shaped, and surrounded by a row of elephant tusks, was a symbol of the Nuer people's resistance to the colonial regime. The monument was dynamited on the orders of British colonial commander Percy Coriat in 1928.
​It was estimated that the Ngundeng Pyramid's construction started in 1870 and was finished in phases over the course of four years. The first phase lasted one year and involved building huts for the builders, the Ngundeng followers; the second phase, which was the building phase, lasted two years; and the final stage, during which the Prophet Ngundeng called for all of the Nuer from Nuerland to gather in his village and fasted for seven days, lasted one year. Under the prophet's guidance, hundreds of Nuer labored for four years to construct the Pyramid.
The Nuer believe that Ngundeng constructed it as a place of worship and sanctuary for the Nuer people, as well as an homage to his god, Dengtath (God of Creation). One of the best examples is the period of time when Gaajiok women were enamored with childlessness and failed to have any male children for many years. Last but not least, they made pilgrimages to the Ngundeng Pyramid in Lou Nuer territory, which was already known for its sacredness. The enormous collection of ivory tusks that were imbedded in the ground surrounding the mound and adorning its summit was gathered at this period. They also brought gifts of ivory tusks, beads, and calves for slaughter. Their requests were granted, and they began to bore male childern again.
Rol Naath
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