Zanahary

Malagasy Adam Story

Zanahary shaped Andrianerinerina

In the beginning, Zanahary, the Creator, made the first human being, a man named Andrianerinerina.

Zanahary shaped Andrianerinerina from the red earth, breathed life into him, and gave him dominion over all creatures.

He prayed to Zanahary, asking for a companion to share his life with.

Zanahary heard Andrianerinerina’s plea and decided to create a companion for him.

One day, while Andrianerinerina was asleep, Zanahary took a rib from his side and used it to form a woman.

Zanahary named this first woman, Andriambavirano.

According to one of the origin myths of the Merina people from the central Highlands of Madagascar, Andrianerinerina is believed to be the son of God (Zanahary) and the ancestor of the Merina rulers.

The legend says that Zanahary's son came down to Earth at a place called Anerinerina (north of Angavokely) to play with the Vazimba, the original inhabitants of Madagascar.

As a result, Zanahary gave the Vazimba a choice: they could either end their own lives or accept Andrianerinerina as their leader.

To complete the union, Zanahary sent his daughter, Andriamanitra, to be Andrianerinerina's wife.

A different myth centers on Andrianerinerina, considered the divine son of Zanahary (God).

As a result, Zanahary made the Vazimba choose between death and serving Andrianerinerina.

They chose the latter, and Zanahary sent his daughter, Andriamanitra, to be Andrianerinerina’s wife, thus founding the Merina royal lineage​ (Wikipedia)​.