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Yoruba Language and Culture

Yoruba is a language predominately spoken in West Africa by approximately 20 million people. Ask questions about Yoruba language and culture here.

640 Questions

What are Yoruba masks made out of?

Yoruba masks are traditionally made from a variety of materials, primarily wood, which is often carved and shaped to create intricate designs. Other materials can include cloth, beads, metal, and sometimes leather, depending on the specific mask's purpose and cultural significance. The surfaces of these masks are often adorned with colorful paints and patterns, reflecting the artistic styles and spiritual meanings associated with them. These masks are used in various ceremonies, rituals, and performances within Yoruba culture.

What does mo' fe lo si Europe gon' gon means in Yoruba language?

It means " I want go to Europe also" or "I want to go to Europe too"

Discuss the arts that were developed by the nok the Yoruba and the benin peoples.in what do these works say about the cultures in which they were created?

The arts of the Yoruba are as numerous as their deities, and many objects are placed on shrines to honor the gods and the ancestors. Beautiful sculpture abounds in wood and brass plus the occasional terracotta.

Why are Yoruba people ugly?

well people has different opinion of other people appearance...i hav a question 4 da person who posted dis question..." y r uugly???" :P

I agree it is of opinion because I have yet to meet an ugly Yuroban, they have all been quite beautiful. That was a "very ugly" inquiry

What does Labaja mean in Yoruba?

Labaja is a Yoruba word that means somebody, nobody, anybody or everybody. It perfectly depicts the anonymity of the so called "common man".

Social and political life of Yoruba people?

The Yoruba people, primarily located in southwestern Nigeria and parts of Benin and Togo, have a rich social and political structure characterized by a blend of traditional and modern governance. Their society is organized into various kingdoms, each led by a king (Oba) and an advisory council, reflecting a strong sense of community and hierarchy. Socially, the Yoruba place great emphasis on family, religion, and cultural festivals, which reinforce communal ties. Additionally, the political landscape has evolved over time, with increased participation in democratic processes while still honoring traditional leadership roles.

What is the Yoruba number system?

See the related links for a complete description of this system and a project to better understand it and use it.

In her book, Africa Counts, Claudia Zaslavsky describes the Yoruba number system as a complex system based on 20 (vigesimal) that uses subtraction to express numbers. For example,

35 = (2 x 20) - 5; 47 = (3 x 20) - 10 - 3; 51 = (3 x 20) - 10 + 1;


According to the Yoruba system, the numbers from 1 to 10 have unique names. The numbers 11, 12, 13, and 14 are written additively (i.e., 11 = 10 + 1, 12 = 10 + 2, 13 = 10 + 3, 14 = 10 + 4). But the numbers from 15 through 19 are written using subtraction from 20. This same pattern continues for the 20s etc.


20 = ogun; 40 = ogun meji; 200 = igba; 400 = irinwo.

What are the Yoruba beliefs?

"

It is in Yorùbá philosophy the indication that all humans have Ayanmo (manifest destiny) to become one in spirit with Olódùmarè (Olòrún, the divine creator and source of all energy). Each person in Ayé (the physical realm) uses thought or action energies to impact the community of all other living things including the Earth, and so to move towards destiny. As such, one's destiny is in one's hands. To attain transcendence and destiny in Òrún-Réré (spiritual realm of those who do good and beneficial things), one's Orí-Inu (spiritual consciousness in the physical realm) must be elevated to unify with one's Iponri (Orí Òrún). Those who stop improving are destined for Òrún-Apadi (spiritual realm of the forsaken). Life and death are cycles of habitation in physical body and spiritual realms while one's spirit evolves toward transcendence. This evolution is most advanced in Irùnmolẹ (oní irun, of the unique hair that distinguishes humans from beasts; imo, enlightened of destiny, ilẹ on the land)

For most people, iwapẹlẹ (well-balanced), meditation and sincere veneration sufficiently strengthen one's Orí-Inu. Being well-balanced, it is believed, that you are in prime position to make positive use of the simplest form of connection between eniyan and Olu-Òrún in the form of adúra (petition;prayer) for divine support.

Some feel it also binding to make a petition or prayer to one's Orí Òrún as it is said to yield quick and decisive pockets of joy. Ẹlégbara (Eṣu, the divine messenger) who, without distortion or partiality for good or for bad, negotiates communication to Òrún and navigates them to Ayé; deliverer of àṣẹ. It is thought that Ifá is called upon whilst in times of major decision making; whatever the 'offering'; the line of advice is commonly used to draw conclusions that would not have been first thought. Call Orunmila,Ifa; or try vice-versa; it is said that all communication with Òrún is energized by invoking àṣẹ.

In the Yoruba Theogany, Olódùmarè has àṣẹ over all."

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoruba_religion


The Yoruba are polytheistic, and get into contact with the supernatural by means of their deities, aptly named "Orishas."

What do the Yorubas call God?

The Yorubas call God "Olodumare" or "Olorun."

Yoruba types of yoruba foods and pictures of yoruba foods?

Yoruba foods include the following:

iyan

eba

amala

isu

ikokore

obe-egusi

ewa

See related links for more information.

What is ashe in Yoruba?

the meaning may depend on the accent you say it with, but one meaning:

it's like 'Amen' or 'so shall it be'

pronounced [ah-SHAY]

What are Yoruba people known for?

They are known for their business acumen and their festivals.

What does Omo Ale nie mean?

In Yoruba it's an insult that roughly means "you're a bastard"

Who is the richest actor and actees in Yoruba?

the richest are not living on the industry alone.bukky wright and rotimi makinde are in that category

What are the taboos in Yoruba land?

there are many and many of them if you would be specific in the aspect you want to know...