FEMST 185GR Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Yoruba Religion, Olodumare, Sodium Silicate
Document Summary
Ashe: life force/energy shared by humans/nature and the divine; the divine & humans are inextricably linked. Western africa - indigenous beliefs, myths, legends, songs, proverbs. Ayanmo: destiny or fate that all people experience olodumare (referred to as they" and orishas/saints communicate with them; not limited by gender): becoming one with the divine creator (everyone achieves this) Orishas work on behalf and sometimes against humans; reflection of mankind, accessible and relatable to humans. Religious celebrations important - build community, ensure everyone has enough resources. Reincarnation reserved for those who live virtuously atunwa: familial reincarnation (kids are reincarnated spirit of late ancestors) The seven african powers: most potent & venerated orishas. Cycle of living and dying is ongoing. Syncretism: colonizers outlawed traditional african practices in an attempt to convert slaves to christianity slaves combatted this by blending yoruba beliefs with catholic practices. An extended family on one of the sea islands migrates to the american mainland.
