The Social Significance of Kolanut in the Igbo tradition of Nigeria
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2013-12
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Department of Sociology, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
Abstract
This paper discusses the significance of kolanut as a symbol of life and hospitality in Igbo tradition. The importance of Igbo kolanut (ọ́jị́ Igbo) in Igbo people’s ceremonies cannot be overemphasized. Igbo people from the southeastern Nigeria are globally known for their rich culture. Traditionally, apart from burial ceremony, every other ceremony like reconciliation, oath taking, traditional marriage ceremonies and a host of other ceremonies are graced and opened with the presentation and breaking of the kolanut. Igbo kolanut is paramount in any occasion that ancestors are meant to partake in. Upon the intrusive of Western cultures which foreign religion signposts, kolanut still represents the traditional Igbo values and practices striving against the upsurge of Christianity and foreign cultures in every social occasion in Igbo land. Since tradition is a way of life of a people, in spite of all that may have been presented to visitors in Igbo homes or in Igbo social gatherings, it is the inclusion of or the initial presentation of ọ́jị́ that signifies acceptance, happiness and good heart toward the visitors. It is therefore recommended that the celebration of kolanut as a symbol of life and hospitality should be encouraged and should also be passed on to the future generations of the Igbo people for the growth and preservation of Igbo tradition.
Description
Keywords
Tradition,, Acculturation,, Kola nut,, Rituals,, Cotyledons