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Yoruba Customs and Beliefs Pertaining to Twins

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 February 2012

Fernand Leroy*
Affiliation:
Overijse, Belgium. [email protected]
Taiwo Olaleye-Oruene
Affiliation:
Olabisi-Olaleye Foundation, London, UK.
Gesina Koeppen-Schomerus
Affiliation:
SGDPRC, IoP, King’s College, London, UK.
Elizabeth Bryan
Affiliation:
Multiple Births Foundation, London, UK.
*
*Address for Correspondence: F. Leroy, 18, Marnix av. 3090 Overijse, Belgium.

Abstract

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The Yoruba are an important ethnic group mainly occupying Southwestern Nigeria. Mainly for genetic reasons, this very large tribe happens to present the highest dizygotic twinning rate in the world (4.4 % of all maternities). The high perinatal mortality rate associated with such pregnancies has contributed to the integration of a special twin belief system within the African traditional religion of this tribe. The latter is based on the concept of a supreme deity called Olodumare or Olorun, assisted by a series of secondary gods (Orisha) while Yoruba religion also involves immortality and reincarnation of the soul based on the animistic cult of ancestors. Twins are therefore given special names and believed to detain special preternatural powers. In keeping with their refined artistic tradition, the Yoruba have produced numerous wooden statuettes called Ibejis that represent the souls of deceased newborn twins and are involved in elaborate rituals. Among Yoruba traditional beliefs and lore some twin-related themes are represented which are also found in other parts of the world. Basic features of the original Yoruba beliefs have found their way into the religious traditions of descendants of African slaves imported in the West Indies and in South America.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2002