The Pilgrimage - Boundary Markers

Boundary Markers

Boundary stones or boundary markers have been in use for centuries worldwide. They come in various shapes and sizes.

Boundary markers are often made of stone, but can also be made of other materials, such as wood or metal. Historically, they have defined territories and lands. Sometimes they’re very informal—like large stones or even monoliths —at other times, they are more formal and carefully crafted.

They help identify the exact starting point of one person’s land —and the end point of another’s property/private landholdings. They can come in pretty handy in a boundary dispute!

Sometimes they are referred to as pins, pillars, corners, or monuments. Markers define the boundaries of a given piece of land for political (states/countries), social, or religious reasons. The oldest known marker is in China, dating from 12 A.D. (Wikipedia)

I’ve observed a very odd choice for a boundary marker many times in Uganda and throughout East Africa. It is called the Omulamula or Luwanyi tree (pictured). It often looks more like a large plant—nothing too impressive. In Uganda, it is translated as “judge”. It is a living boundary marker-- planted to separate plots of land, or to define the boundary of someone’s garden. Further, it is thought to transport the spirit of a deceased person after their death. The leaves are also sometimes used for breaking spells.

Omulamula/Luwanyi Tree

The Hebrew Bible states repeatedly that boundary stones are not to be moved. Here is a sampling:

• “Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors.” Prov 22:28
• “Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless.” Prov. 23:10 The idea is that taking land from the vulnerable, like orphans, is especially wrong.
• The book of Hosea compares corrupt leaders to people who move boundary stones—violating justice and moral limits. Hosea 5:10

Ancient boundary markers were not meant to be altered or trifled with. Land was intended to stay in the same family for generations.

When I think of boundary markers, I think of integrity. Character. Some things were NEVER meant to be altered. They are, literally, set in stone.

Physical boundary stones can be modified little by little, over time. Stealing an inch at a time in some cases. A young boundary plant can easily be DUG UP and moved! What knucklehead thought of using a plant for a boundary marker!? Geesh.

And yet, are we imperceptibly moving boundary stones ourselves—to our own detriment and harm (and those in our circle)?

It would be to our advantage to take a moment to examine our own boundary markers—are we unwittingly nudging them in such a way that it will ultimately cause ourselves or others harm?

It can be a bit depressing thinking about all the boundary stones that have been imperceptibly shuffled around in the last handful of years. Parenting styles that are disadvantageous for the child. Marital covenants are treated more like suggestions than binding contracts.

Disrespect and the demonization of those we disagree with. Justice and deep compassion for fellow humans. Biblical obedience. Financial gain at the cost of another. Exaggerating the truth when we tell a story. Common courtesy. Blaming others instead of taking responsibility for our cutting words and actions. Unteachability.

It’s a slow fade, baby. You hardly even notice if you are not paying close attention. But I pray we will pay close attention.

I hope you will not feel shame when you read today’s Pilgrimage, but if you need a course correction, and you have DUG UP the proverbial Luwanyi tree-- now is a good time to make an intentional transplant. Put the plant back where you found it. Your family, work associates, society, and your God will be appreciative.

For extra credit, meditate on Philippians 4:8 and 2 Corinthians 8:21

To respond to any Pilgrimage devotional, you can email me directly at [email protected]

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