IGBO CULTURE AND SOCIETY: Ogbanje in Ancient Igbo Times
The Igbo people of Nigeria have a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. One fascinating aspect of their culture is their belief in Ogbanje, which refers to a child who is believed to be possessed by a malevolent spirit and is destined to die and be reincarnated multiple times.
The concept of Ogbanje is deeply ingrained in Igbo culture and is believed to have originated in ancient times. The word Ogbanje is derived from two Igbo words, “ogba” and “eje,” which mean “repeated births” and “coming back” respectively. The belief in Ogbanje is so strong that it has been the subject of numerous Igbo folktales, songs, and poems.
According to Igbo tradition, Ogbanje children are born with a curse that causes them to die and be reincarnated multiple times. They are believed to be the spirits of children who died at an early age and are determined to torment their families by repeatedly returning to life and causing them pain and suffering.
The Igbo people believe that Ogbanje children can be recognized by certain physical and behavioural traits. For example, they are often sickly and frail, with a tendency to fall ill frequently. They may also exhibit unusual behaviour, such as speaking in strange tongues or displaying a strong aversion to certain foods or objects.
To break the cycle of death and rebirth, Igbo parents often resort to various rituals and ceremonies to rid their children of the Ogbanje curse. These rituals may involve taking the child to a traditional healer, who will perform a series of incantations and sacrifices to appease the spirits. In some cases, the child may be subjected to physical abuse, such as scarification or branding, to drive out the evil spirits.
Despite the widespread belief in Ogbanje, some dispute its existence. Some scholars argue that the concept of Ogbanje is simply a way for the Igbo people to cope with the high infant mortality rates that were common in ancient times. Others suggest that Ogbanje is a form of psychological trauma that is passed down from generation to generation.
Regardless of its origins, the belief in Ogbanje remains an important aspect of Igbo culture. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Igbo people, who have endured centuries of hardship and adversity. Today, the Igbo people continue to practice their traditional customs and beliefs, including the belief in Ogbanje.
In conclusion, the belief in Ogbanje is an integral part of Igbo culture and has been for centuries. Though its origins and veracity may be debated, the belief in Ogbanje serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people. As historians, politicians, students, and scholars, it is important to study and understand the beliefs and traditions of other cultures, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us.
Written by Jideofo Okibe,(Obinwannem News correspondent Enugwu State)
Date: April 20, 2024
Ubochi Eke Oku
Published by Ngozi Odoh (Obinwannem Nsukka Office Secretary)
