Pages: 1-12

Abstract

Obì (kola nut-Cola acumulata) is an important fruit enjoyed by both human and the gods in African, particularly the Yorùbá of South Western Nigeria. Its utility is seen in the realm of entertainment of guests by individuals and groups. It is an important element in festivals, religions, rituals, naming ceremonies, marriages, foundation laying, house warming, vocational graduation, and many other essential occasions in Africa. Obì, as important instrument of divination, particularly in the temples, groves and shrines of the gods and any ritual activities is used to ascertain that prayers offered before the gods have been accepted by the Creator. Because Obì is believed to bring life, its usage includes atonement of sin committed by humans in the religion of the Yorùbá. However, as useful as obì is for all occasions, not enough emphasis has been laid on the divine role it is plays, particularly in relation to the doctrine of sin. This paper, therefore, looks at the concept of sin in relation to how obì are used to ward off sin from human path. Twenty Babaláwo and 10 priests of different cults were interviewed in Ibadan and at Abeokuta to know their views on the concept. Their views were content analysed. The study revealed that atonement for sin which Jesus Christ came to do on earth in Christian belief is not limited to a particular religion. Rather, it spreads among all other religions. Therefore, no religious sect can lay claim to the Creator alone because His revelation to humanity is in diverse forms‎‎.