Abosom

Descriptive Overview

Created by Nyame to fulfill specific functions, the abosom derive their power from Nyame and serve as the mediators between Nyame and human kind. Because the Akan believe that Nyame is too great to be reached directly, the abosom, who represent certain aspects of the power of Nyame, serve as intermediaries and immediate objects of reverence. Although their power is a function of that of Nyame, they have the full power to act in the realm of their specific area of specialization. Each obosom performs different functions and has the ability to reward, punish, protect, and guide human kind in all aspects of life.

Because they are innumerable, the abosom fall into various categories. First, there are those of a tutelary nature who are recognized at the national and/or community level and whose main function it is to protect the community from harm. They are known as tete abosom. Second, there are family abosom, sometimes known as egyabosom (father's deity), that are inherited patrilineally and govern and protect particular families. The primary function of the egyabosom is to assist their attendants in the actualization of their nkrabea (destiny; Divine function). There are also abosom associated with each of the various Akan clans (Abusua) who are connected with particular areas or localities. The Akan connect the tete abosom, egyabosom, and Abusua abosom with the origins of Creation and have thus recognized and revered them from time immemorial. However, the Akan also believe that in the same way that Nyame continues to create the universe, he continues to create abosom. These contemporary abosom can be thought of as a type of medicine in that they are “owned” by highly specialized spiritualists who use them in the manipulation of cosmic energy. The continued reverence of these abosom largely depends on their ability to satisfy their intended purpose.

As intermediaries, the abosom are fundamental to humanity's ability to maintain a connection to and relationship with Nyame. Nyame communicates with humankind through the abosom who carry messages on Nyame's behalf. These messages, as well as the specific powers and energies of a particular abosom, are invoked through rituals and ceremonies performed by akomfo (traditional priests; singular: okomfo), also known as bosomfo (people of the abosom). After being “called” (“mounted'V'possessed”) by a particular obosom, akomfo undergo an elaborately intense initiation, usually no less than 3 years in duration, in which they essentially “marry” the obosom by dedicating his or her entire life to the service of the obosom and learn the laws, taboos, songs, dances, and so on of the obosom.

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