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Beyond Illusion of Myth to Allusion of Reality: The Case of Conjectures about Ayò ọlọ́pọ́n in Relation to Ifá Among the Yoruba of Southwest Nigeria
Article Number: SIS126958AI290724
29th July, 2024
Author(s):
Oluwọle Tẹwọgboye Okewande, Ph.D.
Abstract:
Among the Yoruba, it is a general belief that people engage in ayò ọlọ́pọ́n to reduce stress, create
jokes, and have fun. Because of its entertainment value, ayò ọlọ́pọ́n is generally played in the evening, as a relaxer
after the day’s work. As a result of this belief, information emanating from
the ayò context is believed to be
trivial ones. However, contrary to the beliefs on ayò ọlọ́pọ́n, this study investigated ayò ọlọ́pọ́n as a popular and reliable Yoruba cultural activity that
mirrors Ifá’s primary roles of
making an enquiry. This study employed symbolism, a semiotic mode that relates
to the interpretation of what something or somebody stands for or another, in one
or more capacities. The symbolism of ayò ọlọ́pọ́n
was compared with and related to Ifá.
It was found from the study that ayò ọlọ́pọ́n
have a relative role with Ifá- the
oracle of divination and wisdom consulted to solve problems and provide
solutions out of crisis. This role is validated in ayò ọlọ́pọ́n as supplementary in addition to the general function
of relaxation and entertainment that it is mostly known for. The study
concludes that like any other human activity that can be imitated, adapted, and adopted
into play, ayò ọlọ́pọ́n is an
imitation or adaptation of Ifá. Therefore,
Ayò ọlọ́pọ́n is a telescope of Ifá divination.