Faculty of Arts

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Browsing Faculty of Arts by Author "Olusegun Timothy AYANWALE"

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    Correlates of Christ Redemptive Analogies in Odu-Ifa and Perception of Priests in Southwestern, Nigeria.
    (Lead City University, Ibadan, 2024) Olusegun Timothy AYANWALE
    This study aims to explore the reflections of Jesus Christ in Odu Ifa among the Yoruba people in South Western Nigeria, focusing on the identification and analysis of redemptive analogies between these two distinct spiritual traditions. The research addresses the gap in the existing literature regarding the integration of Christian elements into traditional Yoruba Ifa practices, applying the theory of syncretism to understand how these religious components coexist and interact within the Yoruba cultural context. By examining how the redemptive themes of Jesus Christ are mirrored within the traditional Ifa divination system, this study sheds light on the broader interaction between indigenous spirituality and Christianity. The research employs a qualitative design, incorporating participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, and textual analysis. The study population consists of male Babalawos (Ifa priests) from six key locations: Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibadan, Osogbo, Ishagamu, and Ikenne. A purposive sample of 20 participants was selected, ensuring that the research engages deeply with knowledgeable Ifa practitioners. Data collection methods include detailed field notes, audio recordings, and an analysis of significant Odu Ifa texts. The data was then subjected to thematic analysis to uncover patterns and provide insights into the syncretic blending of Ifa and Christian elements. Key findings highlight a significant syncretic practice in which traditional Ifa rituals are infused with Christian symbol. This study aims to explore the reflections of Jesus Christ in Odu Ifa among the Yoruba people in South Western Nigeria, focusing on the identification and analysis of redemptive analogies between these two distinct spiritual traditions. The research addresses the gap in the existing literature regarding the integration of Christian elements into traditional Yoruba Ifa practices, applying the theory of syncretism to understand how these religious components coexist and interact within the Yoruba cultural context. By examining how the redemptive themes of Jesus Christ are mirrored within the traditional Ifa divination system, this study sheds light on the broader interaction between indigenous spirituality and Christianity. The study concludes that the Yoruba people have developed a unique spiritual identity that harmoniously integrates both Ifa and Christian beliefs. It is recommended that future research examine the influence of this syncretism on younger generations within the Yoruba community. Keywords: Redemptive Analogies, Odu ifa, Yoruba, Reflection on Jesus Christ, Syneretism Word Count: 359