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Showing posts with the label Igbo Cosmology

Unmasking Kamalu: The Mighty God of Thunder in Igbo Cosmology 🌩️

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  By Jude Obuseh In the rich tapestry of Igbo cosmology, amidst the myriad of deities and spirits, stands Kamalu, revered as the formidable god of thunder. Known affectionately as "Kalu," this deity commands the skies, shaping the very essence of nature's rhythms. Legend intertwines Kamalu with Ani, the Earth goddess, in a sacred union that echoes throughout the land. As her husband, Kamalu holds the vital role of nurturing Ani, releasing rain to fertilize her and ensuring her boundless productivity. Their connection is symbiotic, a divine dance of power and sustenance. But woe unto those who dare to offend Ani, for they must face the wrath of Kamalu, the god of thunder and justice. His voice reverberates through the heavens, speaking through the crackling of lightning and the rumble of thunder. As the arbiter of divine law, Kamalu metes out punishment to those who transgress against him or his beloved Ani. Also:  **The Cultural Legacy of Ekpe and Nsibidi: Unr...

* Ekwensu: The Misconstrued Deity of Igbo Cosmology**

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By Jude Obuseh In Igbo cosmology, Ekwensu is a significant figure, often misinterpreted through the lens of modern religious teachings. 🌌 Ekwensu, designated as the god of bargains, stands as one of the sons of the creator in Igbo mythology, known as Chi-Ukwu, Chukwu, or Chineke. However, contrary to popular belief, Ekwensu is not synonymous with the devil as portrayed in contemporary Christianity. The European incursion into Africa brought with it the imposition of foreign religious ideologies onto indigenous beliefs. 🌍 Upon encountering Igbo cosmology, which lacked the concept of a devil, European missionaries sought to fill this perceived theological void. Aware of the resilience of the Igbo people and their resistance to colonization, they strategically equated Ekwensu with the Christian devil to instill fear and facilitate conversion. Traditionally, Ekwensu held a distinct role in Igbo society. 🛡️ The ancient Igbo invoked his spirit in times of war or when engaging ...