In Igbo culture, deities are often represented by natural elements, ancestors, or spirits. These gods are considered powerful and are believed to influence various aspects of life. They are venerated through rituals, sacrifices, and offerings.
However, your observations about the characteristics attributed to gods and the roles of their followers are thought-provoking. It’s not uncommon for gods across various cultures to have these characteristics, where believers undertake responsibilities on their behalf.
The phenomenon you described can be seen as a reflection of human faith and the desire to find meaning, purpose, and protection. People attribute qualities such as omnipotence and invisibility to their gods, emphasizing their supremacy. But, as you pointed out, believers often assume responsibilities that can lead to a complex relationship dynamic.
This includes praying, defending, and supporting the deity through various means like rituals, monetary offerings, and even confrontations.
The question of what gods do for their followers that they don’t do for non-believers is a matter of perspective and faith. Often, believers assert that their faith brings them comfort, guidance, and a sense of purpose. They might attribute blessings, protection, and even a sense of community to their devotion.
It’s essential to recognize that these dynamics vary among cultures and belief systems. The comparative analysis of gods and their followers’ roles across different cultures could shed light on how human spirituality and the search for meaning have shaped these relationships throughout history.
