Divinities

Basic Description

The origin of the divinities is not definite because of the differing beliefs regarding their coming into being. Oral traditions from a number of African societies assert that the divinities are emanations or offspring of the Supreme Being. The Akans of Ghana say explicitly that the abosom are the children of Onyame. Among the Edo, Olokun is held to be the son of Osanobwa, whereas among the Yoruba, Orisa-Nla is said to be the offspring [Page 209][Page 210]of Olodumare. Generally, divinities in Africa are believed to be beings that were brought into being distinctively with unique and supernatural destiny.

The Divine Per-aa, Amenhotep III, in his majesty. The Per-aa was considered a divinity alongside other deities in ancient Egypt. The idea of the Divine Kingship comes from the Pharaonic Period in the Nile Valley.

Source: Molefi Kete Asante and Ama Mazama.

It is difficult to state the precise number of the divinities. Yoruba oral tradition puts the census of divinities at varying numbers from 201, 401, 600, to 1,700. This pluralism of divinities probably results from the fact of a plural society, but in this diversity of many divinities, there is unity under one Supreme Being.

The divinities may be male or female. For example, among the Yoruba, Orunmila and Sango are male, whereas Oya and Yemoja (Yemonja) are female. Divinities are held to be responsible for all the good and evil that happen on Earth. Humankind, therefore, can receive the prosperity, good health, protection, wives and children, and all forms of good fortunes by offering regular sacrifices to the divinities. However, refusal to offer sacrifice or show gratitude may incur their wrath on oneself.

Each divinity has its own local name in the local language, which is descriptive either of the function allotted to the divinity or with the natural phenomena with which the divinity is associated. Divinities may well be described as “domesticated” spirits because they are a tutelary part of the community establishments.

They act as custodians of the people's morality. In this capacity, they act as watchdogs for the Supreme Being and as checks against the excesses of human beings. They often represent instant justice and may be called on to vindicate the just. For example, Ogun is fierce, but not evil. He demands justice, fair play, and integrity. He is also protective of the poor and the dispossessed.

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