Outsiders have written many books and essays about Igbo and African religions.
A number of inaccurate and disparaging statements have been made in these publications. which has influenced many Igbo and Africans to adopt the same incorrect terminology and have the same beliefs.
Let us correct some of these inaccuracies.
African or Igbo religion is incorrectly referred to be ancestor worship.
This is incorrect because Africans do not revere their ancestors who have passed away.
It is true that long-dead relatives are said to live on and exhibit interest in their living relatives.
These families may demonstrate their faith by erecting shrines to the departed and leaving food or drink there or on their graves, as well as mentioning them in their prayers.
Also, once in a while, Igbo culture permits the celebration of Masquerade or mmanwu festivals, just like the one that happened in this video which took place in Agbgudu, Udi, Enugu state.
These expressions of reverence for the deceased, however, do not imply that they are being worshipped; rather, they demonstrate people's view that the departed of up to four or five generations should not be forgotten.
Acts of worship (such as sacrifices and prayers) are only a part of the African/Igbo religion.
A little element of a larger religious system cannot be considered whole.
Thus, it is incorrect to refer to the African/Igbo religion as "ancestor worship."
