Olodumare: The Supreme Creator in Nigerian Mythology

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July 15, 2023

Introduction

Nigeria is home to a plethora of myths, legends, folklore, and fables. These tales are embedded in the history and culture of the people, serving as a means of transmitting moral values, traditions, and beliefs from one generation to another. Myths often involve supernatural beings like gods, goddesses, and spirits, and they seek to explain natural phenomena, human behaviour, and the origins of the world. This essay will explore the Yoruba myth of creation known as “Olodumare and the Seven Orishas” and examine how it reflects the Yoruba cosmology, philosophy, and cultural values.

Background

The Yoruba people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, with a population of over 40 million. They are predominantly found in the south-western part of Nigeria, but also in neighbouring countries like Benin and Togo. The Yoruba have a rich cultural heritage, with a complex system of beliefs that revolves around their deities, orishas, and ancestors. The Yoruba religion, also known as Ifa, is an integral part of their social, political, and economic life, and it has survived centuries of colonization, slavery, and modernization.

Olodumare and the Seven Orishas

The Yoruba myth of creation tells the story of how the world was created by Olodumare, the supreme god, and how the Seven Orishas were created to assist him in the management of the universe. The myth begins with the description of the void, a formless and chaotic realm where there was only darkness and silence. Olodumare, who existed in the etheric realm above the void, saw the need for a physical world where he could express his creativity and manifest his powers. He decided to create the world, and he commanded his eldest son, Olorun, to descend into the void and lay the foundation for the universe.

Olorun descended into the void and began to use his immense power to create the world. He formed the land, the sea, and the sky, and he also created the sun, the moon, and the stars. However, he realized that he needed assistance to manage the affairs of the world, and he went back to his father to seek his approval. Olodumare listened to his son’s request and decided to create seven orishas, who would assist Olorun in the management of the universe. He summoned his chief diviner, Orunmila, and asked him to select seven of his followers who would be transformed into orishas.

Orunmila selected Obatala, Oduduwa, Ogun, Olokun, Yemoja, Shango, and Eleggua, who were all of different temperaments and qualities. Olodumare then

sent a message to each of them, asking them to descend from the etheric realm and assist Olorun in the management of the world. They all agreed, and they descended into the physical world, each taking charge of a different aspect of the universe.

Obatala was assigned the task of creating humans, and he used clay to mould them into shape. However, he became drunk on palm wine and created humans of different shapes and sizes. Oduduwa was assigned the task of ruling over the land, and he founded the first Yoruba kingdom, Ife. Ogun was assigned the task of ruling over iron and warfare, and he became the patron god of blacksmiths, hunters, and warriors. Olokun was assigned the task of ruling over the sea, and she became the goddess of fertility and abundance. Yemoja was assigned the task of ruling over the rivers, and she became the goddess of motherhood and childbirth. Shango was assigned the task of ruling over thunder and lightning, and he became the god of fire and dance. Eledua was assigned the task of being the messenger of the gods, and he became the god of chance and fortune.

Each of the orishas had their own unique qualities and powers, and they worked together to manage the affairs of the universe. They were also approachable and personable, and they often interacted with humans, accepting offerings, and providing blessings and protection. The people of Yoruba believed that by honoring the orishas, they could gain their favor, and live a happy and prosperous life.

Analysis

The Yoruba myth of creation reflects the Yoruba cosmology, philosophy, and

cultural values. The myth portrays Olodumare as the supreme, omnipotent, and benevolent god who created the world out of love and compassion. Olodumare represents the ultimate source of power and creativity, and he is revered as the highest authority in the Yoruba religion. He is often associated with the concept of destiny, which is believed to be preordained and immutable.

The Seven Orishas represent different aspects of creation, and they reflect the diversity of the natural world. Each orisha is associated with a particular element, like Obatala with clay, Ogun with iron, and Olokun with the sea, and they are also associated with specific symbols, like the double-headed axe for Shango, or the fan for Eledua. The orishas are not considered superior to humans, but are seen as intermediaries between humans and the supreme god, Olodumare. They represent the manifestation of Olodumare’s power in the physical world, and they are revered as sources of wisdom, guidance, and protection.

The Yoruba myth of creation also reflects the Yoruba cultural values of cooperation, harmony, and respect for diversity. The Seven Orishas are not considered rivals or enemies, but are seen as partners in the management of the universe. They complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and they work together to achieve common goals. The Yoruba people believe that diversity is a source of strength, and that each person has a unique role to play in society. They also believe in the importance of community, and the need to work together towards common goals, like the well-being of the family, the tribe, and the nation.

The Yoruba myth of creation provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. It reflects their cosmology, philosophy, and cultural values, and serves as a means of transmitting their traditions and beliefs from one generation to another. The myth portrays Olodumare as the supreme god who created the world out of love and compassion, and the Seven Orishas as intermediaries between humans and the divine. It also reflects the Yoruba cultural values of cooperation, harmony, and respect for diversity, and highlights the importance of community in achieving common goals. By studying myths like these, we can gain a deeper understanding of the beliefs and worldview of different cultures, and appreciate the diversity of human experience.

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