YORUBA CONCEPT OF GOD- OLODUMARE

ABSTRACT

The Yoruba are a West African ethnic group that is mostly concentrated in Nigeria, have a rich and intricate religious belief system that centers around the concept of Olodumare, their supreme deity. This project explores philosophically the complex nature of the Yoruba concept of Olodumare, examining the roles, attributes, and significance of this divine being in the Yoruba cosmology. Drawing from a diverse range of sources including traditional oral narratives, scholarly research, and religious practices, this study aims at providing a comprehensive understanding of how Olodumare is perceived and revered within the Yoruba community. By delving into the origins and myths surrounding Olodumare, as well as the rituals and ceremonies dedicated to worshipping this deity, this project shed light on the profound influence that the concept of Olodumare has had on shaping Yoruba culture, ethics, and worldview. Through a careful analysis of key philosophical concepts such as destiny (ayanmo), divine providence (ore), and moral accountability (iwapele), this study seeks to elucidate the ways in which the Yoruba understanding of Olodumare informs their approach to ethics, spirituality, and social relationships. In conclusion, by placing the Yoruba notion of Olodumare in the context of comparative theology and African traditional religions, this project also contributes to ongoing scholarly discussions about the diversity and complexity of religious beliefs around the world from a rational perspective.