Macaulay, A. Kanu and Anacletus, I. Ogbunkwu (2024) APPRAISAL OF ỌJỊ AS THE EPICENTER OF HOSPITALITY IN IGBO COSMOLOGY. Sophia: An African Journal of Philosophy and Public Affairs, 20 (1). pp. 60-78. ISSN 1119-443X
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Oji in Igbo Cosmology pubished in Sophia 2024.pdf Download (253kB) |
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to make an appraisal of ọji which is the Igbo kola nut as the epicenter of hospitality in Igbo cosmology. Using analytic method of research, this paper makes a critical assessment of the implications of ọji as an apical agent of hospitality among the Igbo people of Nigeria. In the attempt to achieve the stated aim, this paper studies both the concept, nature, uses, and spiritualties of ọji as expressed in the presentation (ịche ọji), ritual blessings (ịgọ ọji), breaking (ịwa ọji) and eating (ịta ọji). Cola accuminata is the botanical name of ọji in Igbo translation and kola nut in English. It is a fruit plant that occupies a central position in Igbo socio-cultural and traditional milieu. From the analysis of its concept, uses and spirituality; it is obvious that ọji is the quintessential gesture of welcome in both formal and informal gathering in the Igbo cosmology. The official presentation of ọji with the accompanying rituals is the utmost expression of heartfelt hospitality, goodwill, open-mindedness, honesty/sincerity, love, welcome and friendship to a guest(s). This paper makes a clarion call to all Igbos not to allow the wave of westernization and devaluation of cultures to bastardize the rich symbolism of kola nut among the Igbo people. This can be achieved by conscientization, formal and informal education, workshops and seminars on the concept, values and spirituality of ọjị as the epicenter of Igbo hospitality
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General) |
| Divisions: | Faculty of Arts > Faculty of Law > Faculty of Management and Social Sciences > Faculty of Education |
| Depositing User: | mrs chioma hannah |
| Date Deposited: | 11 Sep 2025 15:38 |
| Last Modified: | 11 Sep 2025 15:38 |
| URI: | http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/5510 |
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