‘Hye Wanhye’: The Arabic-Inscribed Cloth Exclusively Worn By Asantehene

If you joined the Fetish Priests Day during the 20th Anniversary of the King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in 2019, you might have noticed a special outfit he donned for the occasion.

Called ‘Hye Wanhye’ in the local dialect, to wit, ‘Resistant to Fire,’ the cloth has inscriptions in Arabic all over.

This outfit is exclusively worn by the Asantehene.

Origin
It is understood that it came about during the era of Asantehene Osei Kwame Tutu who many believe converted into a Muslim.

During that era, the ruler’s religious orientation opened the Kingdom to the emigration of a large number of Muslims. Additionally, Muslims had a lot of influence in the Asante courts.

It was at this time that the office of Asantehene Kramo was established. The appointee was mandated to lead a group of Asante Muslims to manufacture the cloth.

Design
It is said that a white cloth was spread on a floor during the design of the cloth while the Asantehene Kramo led a Qu’ran recitation.

As he recited, the remaining members of the team set out to work, printing the Arabic inscriptions on the cloth.

When completed, the cloth is handed over to the Sumankwaahene who delivered it in person to the Asantehene.

Occasions
The spiritual significance of the cloth makes it highly sacred and reserved for special occasions.

In the olden days, it was worn during war; however, in modern times, it is worn on occasions where the King meets up with fetish priests and priestesses such as was seen during the 16 Monarch’s 20th Enstoolment Anniversary in 2019.
Such occasions include Atanɔfoɔ Da, Bosombrafoɔ Da and Sumangorɔ- a dance led by the Sumankwahene. In the olden days, it was danced before war for fortification.

Eligibility

Except for the Asantehene, only the Sumankwaahene can wear a similitude of the Hye Wanhye cloth.

However, on occasions when the King wears his, the Sumankwaahene doesn’t wear his version.

Source: opemsuo.com