In many Christian households across Nigeria and beyond, it's common to invoke the names of biblical figures like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob during personal prayers. This practice is also prevalent in churches, where congregations gather to worship God. However, the author of this opinion piece, Jason Osai Osai, a lecturer at Rivers State University, questions why Africans are often discouraged from invoking the spirits of their ancestors in prayers, viewing it as a form of idolatry.
The author's personal experience with ancestral worship dates back to September 1988, when he drove from Port Harcourt to Owerri, accompanied by Chief AM Abasi. Their mission was to meet with Mr. Nwaorgu, the marketing manager of 33 Breweries Ltd, to discuss a dealership for Mrs. Alice Abah. During the trip, the author began to feel a sense of foreboding, which he couldn't shake off. He sensed that something was wrong and decided to take a detour, turning northwards instead of returning to Port Harcourt through the original route.
The author's decision to take a detour proved to be a crucial one. He visited the grave of his grandfather, Osai, and expressed his concerns about the impending danger. In a fit of rage, he threatened his grandfather and uncle, Lazarus, that if they didn't intervene, he would scatter their ribcage with a penknife. This encounter was witnessed by his cousin, Luke Ofere, who was left confused and shocked.
After the encounter, the author met with Nze Romanus Ogboh, who warned him to be careful on the road. Nze Romanus revealed that he had a dream in which the author died in a motor accident, but he administered a potion that brought him back to life. The author's decision to take a detour and visit his grandfather's grave may have saved his life, but the exact circumstances surrounding the event remain unclear.
The author's experience raises questions about the role of ancestors in prayer and worship. While many Christians view invoking the spirits of ancestors as a form of idolatry, the author's encounter suggests that ancestors may play a more significant role in the lives of individuals than often acknowledged. The author's story is a personal reflection on the importance of ancestral worship and the need to reevaluate one's relationship with the spiritual realm.
The author's story is set against the backdrop of Nigeria's multicultural and multiethnic society. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with many Nigerians practicing traditional forms of worship that involve invoking the spirits of ancestors. However, the influence of Christianity has led to a decline in traditional practices, with many Nigerians adopting Western-style worship.
The author's reflection on ancestral worship is a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of Nigerian culture and spirituality. As the country continues to navigate its diverse cultural landscape, the author's story serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and understanding traditional practices. The story also highlights the need for a more nuanced discussion about the role of ancestors in prayer and worship.
Key points
- Ancestral worship is a common practice in many African cultures, but its significance is often overlooked in modern Christian worship.
- The author's personal experience with ancestral worship raises questions about the role of ancestors in prayer and worship.
- The story highlights the need for a more nuanced discussion about the role of ancestors in prayer and worship in Nigerian culture.
