In both the Bible and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, the value of knowledge and understanding is held as a divine directive. Yet, this knowledge extends beyond academic or religious study, encompassing a profound understanding of one’s culture and heritage. In African society, particularly within Yoruba tradition, life has long been grounded in a spiritual interconnection between the unborn, the living, and the deceased. However, in recent years, these practices have faced challenges, partly due to modernity, religious shifts, and political influences.

A historical tension exists between tradition and modern religious practices, evident in situations like that of the late Olu of Warri, whose attempt to merge religious rites with traditional customs was met with strong opposition from his subjects. Meanwhile, in Ogun State, a recent Chieftaincy Bill supported the wishes of the Awujale of Ijebuland to have obas buried according to their chosen religions. By contrast, Oyo State has held steadfastly to its traditional succession practices, demonstrating the differences in how Yoruba communities handle the preservation of culture.

In a 2006 interview, Oba Adesesan Afolorunso Oguntayo of Ijebu-Ife expressed a preference for minimizing traditional rituals, instead promoting religious ceremonies during the installation of chiefs. This perspective sparked a significant reaction among community members, particularly as Yoruba obas historically avoided aligning with a single religion publicly, thus preserving the unity and neutrality of their position as cultural custodians.

The juxtaposition of religious observances, such as the selection and burial of a Pope, with African traditional rites highlights a double standard often applied to African practices. When Western institutions uphold secrecy or ritual, it’s respected, while similar African customs are often labeled as fetishistic or outdated. This discrepancy can lead to a loss of cultural respect and even shame, causing many to abandon traditional practices.

Furthermore, the disregard for traditional burial rites and sacred practices has, according to some Yoruba elders, led to mysterious and tragic consequences within communities. Violations of these customs have, on occasion, been followed by incidents of unrest, mysterious deaths, and other calamities, which traditionalists attribute to a spiritual imbalance or disconnection from ancestral ways.

Historically, Yoruba culture has advocated for harmony between the spiritual and the physical realms, especially in addressing community-wide crises. Traditionalists believe that the neglect of ritual observance can have repercussions not only on individuals but also on the entire community. This reverence for tradition extends to the roles of obas, who once lived well into old age, often shielded from untimely or tragic deaths—qualities seen to be eroding today due to the abandonment of certain rites.

The current generation’s pursuit of modernity, coupled with the influence of Western education and religious fervor, has led many to disregard these traditional values. This shift has given rise to what some consider a wave of ignorance toward indigenous knowledge, contributing to a rise in misfortunes within communities that were once known for their stability and resilience.

In the words of the late Nigerian statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, many African elites possess an outward attachment to foreign religions, while in their hearts, they still recognize the power of traditional practices. Awolowo himself received a burial that included traditional rites, despite his affiliation with Western religious practices, illustrating a blend of spiritual beliefs.

The African worldview emphasizes that knowledge must encompass an understanding of one’s heritage and the sacred traditions that sustain a community’s wellbeing. As religious, political, and social influences continue to reshape African societies, leaders and citizens alike must strive to balance modernity with the preservation of indigenous practices. Such a balance not only honors the past but also provides a foundation for future generations to build upon, ensuring a harmonious existence rooted in a holistic understanding of both culture and faith.