After God Is Dibia: Igbo Cosmology, Divination and Sacred Science in Nigeria by John Anenechukwu Umeh

Summary

After God Is Dibia: Igbo Cosmology, Divination and Sacred Science in Nigeria is a profound exploration of the spiritual and philosophical traditions of the Igbo people of Nigeria. Authored by Professor John Anenechukwu Umeh, a renowned scholar and practitioner, the book delves into the intricacies of Igbo cosmology, divination practices, and the sacred sciences that are integral to the culture.

Content Overview

• Igbo Traditional Calendar and Cosmic Cycles: Discusses the complex system of timekeeping and the significance of cosmic cycles in Igbo culture.
• Afa Mystical “O” and Early Achievement of Post-Literacy: Examines the mystical aspects of the Igbo divination system known as Afa and its role in the intellectual traditions of the society.
• Afa Divination: Provides a detailed look into the practice of Afa divination, its methods, and its importance in guiding personal and communal decisions.
• Herbs in Ogwu: Explores the use of herbs in traditional medicine, known as Ogwu, and their significance in healing practices.
• The Language of Prayer: Investigates the linguistic elements of prayer and incantation in Igbo spirituality.
• Evil Forces and Evil Ones: Analyzes the Igbo concepts of evil and the ways to combat negative spiritual forces.
• Ethics of Dibia: Emphasizes the ethical and moral standards required of a dibia, the traditional healer and spiritual leader in Igbo culture.

Author’s Background

John Anenechukwu Umeh brings a unique perspective as both an academic and a practitioner. Initiated into the spiritual practices of his culture since 1947, Umeh combines his extensive personal experience with rigorous scholarly research. His dual roles as a dibia and professor enrich his analysis, offering insights that are both authentic and academically robust.

Themes

• Integration of Science and Spirituality: The book highlights the seamless blend of scientific knowledge and spiritual practice in Igbo tradition, challenging the Western dichotomy between the two.
• Cultural Preservation and Modernity: Umeh underscores the importance of preserving traditional knowledge in the face of modern challenges, advocating for a balanced integration of ancient wisdom with contemporary life.
• Ethical Foundations: A recurring theme is the ethical grounding required for practitioners of sacred science, stressing the importance of moral integrity in the pursuit of knowledge.

Conclusion

After God Is Dibia is a seminal work for anyone interested in African spirituality, cosmology, and traditional medicine. Its comprehensive coverage of Igbo sacred sciences offers valuable insights into a rich cultural heritage, making it an essential addition to the fields of African studies, anthropology, and religious studies. Whether you are a scholar, practitioner, or simply curious about Igbo traditions, this book provides a profound understanding of the wisdom embedded in one of Africa’s oldest cultures.