The Mysteries of Igbo Burial Rituals: Navigating the Passage to the Afterlife 🌅
By Jude Obuseh In Igbo culture, the importance of ceremonial burial rituals, known as "Ikwa Ozu," transcends mere tradition—it is a sacred journey ensuring the peaceful transition of the soul to the land of the ancestors. 🕊️ These rituals are steeped in symbolism and significance, serving as a bridge between the earthly realm and the spiritual realm. Without proper burial rites, the soul of the deceased may wander aimlessly, causing disturbances and unrest for their family. This is particularly evident in the case of spirits like "Nwa Ada," whose unfulfilled burial rituals can lead to her spirit manifesting in various forms, bringing misfortune and turmoil to her family. 🌀 To address these disturbances, families often turn to native doctors who utilize divination tools like Afa to uncover the root of the problem. Through these spiritual consultations, guidance is provided on how to perform the burial rites correctly, thereby appeasing the restless spir...