THE IGBO PEOPLES THEOLOGICAL SPIRITUALITY part two(2). Alusi: Chukwus incarnations in the world (uwa) are the Alusi. The Alusi, who are also known as Arushi, Anusi or Arusi amongst the igboid dialects all spring from Ala the earth goddess who embodies the workings of the world. There are lesser deities in Odinani, each of whom are responsible for a specific aspect of nature or abstract concept. According to Igbo lore, these lesser Alusi, as elements of Chukwu, have their own specific purpose. They exist only as long as their purpose does thus many Alusi die off except for the universally served Alusi. The top four Alusi of the Igbo pantheon are Ala, Igwe, Anyanwu, and Amadioha (or Kamalu); other less important Alusi exist after these, some depending on the community. Ala (also known as Ani, Ana, Ale, and Ali in varying Igboid dialects) is the female Alusi (deity) of the earth, morality, death, and fertility in Odinani. She is the most important Alusi in the Igbo pantheon. In Odinani, Ala rules over the underworld which holds the deceased ancestors in her womb. Her name literally translates to Ground in the Igboid language, denoting her powers over the earth and her status as the ground itself. Ala is considered the highest Alusi in the Igbo pantheon and was the first Alusi created by Chukwu, God almighty. Alas husband is Amadioha, the sky god. As the goddess of morality, Ala is involved in judging human actions and is in charge of Igbo law and customs known as Omenala. Taboos and crimes among Igbo communities that are against the standard of Ala are called nsọAla. All ground is considered Holy land as it is Ala herself. With human fertility, Ala is credited for the productivity of land. Alas messenger and living agent on earth is the python (éké), it is and animal especially revered in many Igbo communities. In Odinani art, Alas image is mostly depicted in clay Mbari temples. Powers: It is said that if a person commits a taboo in a community, that they have also desecrated or insulted Ala as the abomination (called ajo njo or Aru Ala, Alu Ani) was committed on her earth. Ala is also responsible for many aspects of Igbo society, and guardianship of women and children in general. It is also believed that she can be Chukwus wife or daughter. She is often depicted with a small child in her arms and her symbol is the crescent moon. It is believed that the souls of the dead reside in her sacred womb. All in the community have to respect Ala as everybody lives on ala, the earth. It was sometimes believed that Ala could swallow you up into the underground. To be continue... Watch out for part three(3) Ejike Iloduba @https://m.facebook/groups/1474041249514450?_e_pi_=7%2CPAGE_ID10%2C6834484407
Posted on: Thu, 28 Aug 2014 07:43:47 +0000
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