Virtual Kollage: WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION

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Posted by Chester Morton / Sunday, 11 June 2023 / No comments

In what ways are the characteristics of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) different from those of Christianity or Islam?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1pYmWxoz8Monbb2tug9TkzXFRyO4djgl6kDHWHsd6hJQjxmUvHDwXEoXC9sDB6VdmDx5IiBp7ETA8aN29knKlM5ZqI-TjY27QdfChPDMWok0geNy8VBekTD9FHQyfYz6nuIMw5EMehFl-mYZw8oSHFGqsqpCUd_AV9oObgjtw6LnW9iEg8eIy4-Yeg/s290/West%20African%20Traditional%20Religion.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="290" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1pYmWxoz8Monbb2tug9TkzXFRyO4djgl6kDHWHsd6hJQjxmUvHDwXEoXC9sDB6VdmDx5IiBp7ETA8aN29knKlM5ZqI-TjY27QdfChPDMWok0geNy8VBekTD9FHQyfYz6nuIMw5EMehFl-mYZw8oSHFGqsqpCUd_AV9oObgjtw6LnW9iEg8eIy4-Yeg/s1600/West%20African%20Traditional%20Religion.gif" width="290" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In what
ways are the characteristics of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) different
from those of Christianity or Islam?</div>

Introduction<o:p></o:p>

Religion is
an integral part of human life, with different beliefs and practices found in
different parts of the world. West African Traditional Religion is one such
belief system that has been practiced for thousands of years. Christianity and
Islam are other major world religions that have had a major influence in the West
African region. In this article, we will be exploring the characteristics that
differentiate West African Traditional Religion from Christianity and Islam. By
doing so, we will gain insight into the unique features of each religion, and
how they have been shaped by the diverse culture and environment of West
Africa.<o:p></o:p>

Christianity
is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It
is the world's largest religion, with over 2.4 billion adherents, or followers,
throughout the world. Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God and the
savior of humanity whose coming as the Messiah was prophesied in the Old
Testament of the Bible.<o:p></o:p>

Islam is a
monotheistic Abrahamic religion that is based on the teachings of the Islamic
holy book, the Qur'an. The core beliefs of Islam include the belief in Allah as the
one and only deity, the belief in Muhammad as Allah's final prophet, the belief
in the five Pillars of Islam (profession of faith, prayer, fasting, almsgiving,
and pilgrimage), and the belief in the Day of Judgment. Muslims practice their
faith through rituals such as prayer, fasting during the holy month of Ramadan,
and hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca).<o:p></o:p>

West African
Traditional Religion is a set of beliefs and practices rooted in the indigenous
spiritual and cultural traditions of West African societies, particularly those
located in modern-day Nigeria, Ghana, and the Ivory Coast. These beliefs and
practices include ancestor worship, divination and healing rituals, and a
belief in an all-encompassing divine energy often referred to as
"God" or "the Supreme Being". These beliefs and practices
are still widely practiced today among many West African communities.<o:p></o:p>

CHARACTERISTIC
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION, CHRISTIANITY, AND ISLAM<o:p></o:p>

West African
Traditional Religion is a non-theistic spiritual practice<o:p></o:p>

One of the
ways in which West African Traditional Religion differs from Christianity or
Islam is that the in the former, the adherents believe in a plethora of gods.
West Africans believe there is a Supreme Being, the ultimate, but aside from that,
there are other lesser gods that work in collaboration with the Supreme Being.
These lesser gods are worshipped as individual deities but they recognize the
supremacy of the Supreme Being. In Christianity and Islam on the other hand,
there is the belief in the existence of one God. In the absence of God, the
Almighty, there are no other god.<o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiobWnT_nwwlsN-a6yvPbofdDGTLJP3yb8mYOmoNWqqzFEFQqKl17K28vvLUmnwno8la2-_HfizXZxHZppCd5YRkWA6eXT3lumyAMvO43sar_o6iWelybHSw5SGnl2DDFNT_9KJDIARHjB_05Ehjlb82R2lkXgNZFxSszDzbZiOAvBsuM9lPmQMYXMQ/s290/point%201.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="290" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiobWnT_nwwlsN-a6yvPbofdDGTLJP3yb8mYOmoNWqqzFEFQqKl17K28vvLUmnwno8la2-_HfizXZxHZppCd5YRkWA6eXT3lumyAMvO43sar_o6iWelybHSw5SGnl2DDFNT_9KJDIARHjB_05Ehjlb82R2lkXgNZFxSszDzbZiOAvBsuM9lPmQMYXMQ/s1600/point%201.png" width="290" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: left;">West African
Traditional Religion emphasizes an individual’s personal relationship with the
divine</div>

Another
characteristic that stands out when one compares West African Traditional
Religion to Christianity and Islam is that West African Traditional Religion
is based on how a man relates directly with his maker, he connects himself to
his object of worship in a spiritually direct manner. In other words, it is
based on the personal conviction of the person in question. In Christianity and
Islam, the connection is more communal in nature. The Christians congregate in
church while the Muslims congregate in the mosque. This does not mean
Christians and Muslims do not have their personal relationships with God or
Allah, just that communal worship is also emphasized in addition to the
individual relationship with God.<o:p></o:p>

West African
Traditional Religion does not have a specific set of doctrines or beliefs<o:p></o:p>

Again,
followers of West African Traditional Religion do not have any centralized
rules that members are expected to adhere to across the region as in the case
of Christianity and Islam where all their followers are called upon to abide by
a set of commandments. In Islam, every Muslim is required to pray five times a
day. They are required to visit Mecca, at least, once in their lifetime. Give
alms. In Christianity, going to church on Sundays is encouraged. These are not
the case in West African Traditional Religion. <o:p></o:p>

West African
Traditional Religion does not have a central authority or hierarchy<o:p></o:p>

Also, in West
African Traditional Religion, there is no one leadership structure for the
entire West Africa, overseeing the religion. There is no, for example, like
having the Chief Priest domiciled in Lagos, Cotonou, or Nogokpo with an
administrative structure at a secretariat. In Christianity, there is a whole
hierarchy of leadership, with an administrative structure. The administration
is centralized and doctrines developed and handed down the ladder for
implementation. The Catholic Church, for example, has the Pope based in Rome
and served as the leader of the global Catholic church. In Islam, there is also
centralization of authority. In a country, for example, the highest point of
authority is the Chief Imam and his voice counts.<o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg958g8Kj1EESxz_3Oi2LRqVVYcngc_qh16pgNZoZF8PslyFwlcE8wurshYlqiEFTSTHPm09olPj07CVxbs_F4_kDoCKT33cB3CpMHfPVhiKHS_rjyv2OPM5bPsvh-JY0qoeX-ws5V2XjAk1YJoS9wC9zS4-xPh5OV9jR_CmeLKtQxqNhMi8F1bivwaCw/s290/WATR.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="290" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg958g8Kj1EESxz_3Oi2LRqVVYcngc_qh16pgNZoZF8PslyFwlcE8wurshYlqiEFTSTHPm09olPj07CVxbs_F4_kDoCKT33cB3CpMHfPVhiKHS_rjyv2OPM5bPsvh-JY0qoeX-ws5V2XjAk1YJoS9wC9zS4-xPh5OV9jR_CmeLKtQxqNhMi8F1bivwaCw/s1600/WATR.png" width="290" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: left;">West African
Traditional Religion does not have elaborate ceremonies associated with it</div>

Be aware
that West African Traditional Religion is a spiritual philosophy founded on the
idea that the natural world, the supernatural, and the ancestors all possess
power. It is unrelated to any specific rituals or ceremonies in acknowledgment of the fact that numerous cultures and people in the area practice religion in
a variety of ways.  Instead, it focuses
on developing personal connections with the gods and ancestors as well as learning
about and keeping a healthy relationship with Mother Nature.  Respect for divinity, awe for the
ancestors, and preservation of peaceful relationships with the environment are
the three guiding principles of West African traditional religion. Every
society and group has a special way of attaining this. <o:p></o:p>

West African
Traditional Religion does not have any organized clergy<o:p></o:p>

The last,
but not least way in which West African Traditional Religion is different in
character from Christianity and Islam is that there is no organized clergy.
There are no formal schools or seminaries and so on to attend before one can
become a priest of a deity. The clergy is not organized the way it is organized
in Christianity or Islam. s<o:p></o:p>

Conclusion<o:p></o:p>

Overall, it
is clear that there are significant differences between West African
Traditional religion and Christianity or Islam. West African Traditional
religion has its own unique set of beliefs and practices, while Christianity
and Islam have their own distinct rituals and customs. While the three
religions may share some similarities, they offer different ways of expressing
faith and have different approaches to life and death. Ultimately, the
differences between West African Traditional religion and Christianity or Islam
provide a fascinating insight into how different cultures approach and express
faith.<o:p></o:p>Also Read:<a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/06/the-relationship-between-the-supreme-being-and-the-divinities-in-west-african-traditional-religion-in-ghana-and-nigeria.html" target="_blank">In what ways are the divinities related to the Supreme Being?</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/06/what-are-the-relationships-between-west-african-traditional-religion-and-tourisn-in-ghana-nigeria-sierra-leone-liberia-south-africa.html" target="_blank">What are the relationships between West African Traditional Religion and tourism?</a>

<o:p> <a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com" target="_blank"><<Back to Home Page</a></o:p><o:p><a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/list-of-subjects.html?m=1" target="_blank">Go to the list of other subjects>></a></o:p><a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/the-study-of-west-african-traditional.html" target="_blank">Go to other topics in West African Traditional Religion>></a>

In what ways are the characteristics of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) different from those of Christianity or Islam?

In what ways are the characteristics of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) different from those of Christianity or Islam? Introduc...

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Posted by Chester Morton / Monday, 5 June 2023 / No comments

In what ways are the divinities related to the Supreme Being in West African Traditional Religion?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLFJabowrlPnvQJF_USJ5wZrBwqBLOagUv1k1i6ZG3jMLEnrKyRiyri4sP9ND7B_iWeCzF_KAtS2_yM75EeunwJZKIE7XH5_SlxAq1XSPcqbRlDWo-GqNQc-rbQskpMLwI13FQZddMFCiH0jxYkMFoZT1NE3gAnUYDxgO7_eScC1xgiuuqxx_bdHGtQ/s290/West%20African%20Traditional%20Religion.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="290" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheLFJabowrlPnvQJF_USJ5wZrBwqBLOagUv1k1i6ZG3jMLEnrKyRiyri4sP9ND7B_iWeCzF_KAtS2_yM75EeunwJZKIE7XH5_SlxAq1XSPcqbRlDWo-GqNQc-rbQskpMLwI13FQZddMFCiH0jxYkMFoZT1NE3gAnUYDxgO7_eScC1xgiuuqxx_bdHGtQ/s1600/West%20African%20Traditional%20Religion.png" width="290" /></a></div> IN WHAT WAYS ARE THE DIVINITIES RELATED TO THE SUPREME BEING
IN WEST AFRICA TRADITIONAL RELIGION?<o:p></o:p>Introduction<o:p></o:p>

The term Supreme Being is usually used in reference to deity
or gods. This is common in monotheistic (one God) religions. One example of such
is Christianity. In West African Traditional Religion too, there is a
recognition of the Supreme Being though the religion is polytheistic (many
gods). In this case, they recognize that there is a Supreme Being and addition,
other divinities.<o:p></o:p>

A divinity seen as a supernatural entity. It is a god or
goddess. People worship them. It is believed that they have spiritual power and
are able to influence the life the living, at least, some aspects of it. They
are knowledgeable and creative. What is the relationship between the divinities
and the Supreme Being?<o:p></o:p>

The
relationship between the supreme Being and divinities has been a subject of
discussion, among both scholars and non-scholars, for many years. It is the
intention of this article various ways in which divinities are related to
Supreme Being in West African Traditional Religion. <o:p></o:p>

In West African Traditional Religion, the divinities are
related to the Supreme Being in a variety of ways. The Supreme Being is
believed to be the creator of the universe and all its creatures<o:p></o:p>

The divinities are seen as intermediaries between the
Supreme Being and humanity. <o:p></o:p>

In West African Traditional Religion, God is the Supreme
Being and therefore humans are unable to directly go to God, except they pass
through some other medium. That medium is the intermediary. The divinity
intermediates the relationships humans have with the Supreme Being. <o:p></o:p>

Through the divinities, humans are able to communicate with
God. Human beings put before the intermediaries, their needs, fears, anxieties
etc. These are carried to God the Supreme Being, and in return, the divinities
return with guidance, and answered needs.<o:p></o:p>

They act as messengers<o:p></o:p>

Another type of relationship between the Supreme Being and
the divinities in West African Traditional Religion is that they act as his
messengers. They carry out this duty in many diverse ways. When people pray and
make their requests or need known, it is believed that the needs and requests,
are carried to the Supreme Being by the divinities. The divinities are also
believed to carry instructions from the Supreme Being, to the people. They also
convey the will of the Supreme Being to humans. <o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLLPgw7mZuaXxU1NpteuWCX1Jf3OHNABh8mQjNG_hWMnP4NprWWj4BgY0_GIDwjO8Rp8RvgBttN2xhQPyb9R0wER2uMZRIhXjkEa05iSeS5Jonl-VmQ9t5QB8oohGVdPdW7DgNokVJE4tqZQletQQzjcT0p179_kyRNY1Rk601UtC02C1ZueYx5V4jg/s290/The%20Supreme%20Being.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="290" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsLLPgw7mZuaXxU1NpteuWCX1Jf3OHNABh8mQjNG_hWMnP4NprWWj4BgY0_GIDwjO8Rp8RvgBttN2xhQPyb9R0wER2uMZRIhXjkEa05iSeS5Jonl-VmQ9t5QB8oohGVdPdW7DgNokVJE4tqZQletQQzjcT0p179_kyRNY1Rk601UtC02C1ZueYx5V4jg/s1600/The%20Supreme%20Being.png" width="290" /></a></div>Protectors of the people

In West African traditional religion, divinities are the
protectors of the people. They are capable of delivering the people so that no
harm is able to befall them. In West African traditional religion, harm may
take different forms. Physical harm is not the only type of harm that can
befall a man, it could be spiritual, the people believe. Mental health is
considered a form of harm. Even the ultimate harm, death, the divinities are
believed to have the power to prevent from befalling the people. <o:p></o:p>

Carrying out the will of the Supreme Being<o:p></o:p>

The divinities also relate with the Supreme Being in West African
traditional religion by carrying out his will. It is the will of God that his
people be blessed, that rains must fall for them in due season, that they must
have bountiful harvest, etc. When the people pray to God through the
divinities, God hears their supplications and wants to act, it is believed that
his will carried out by the divinities.<o:p></o:p>

Divinities are also seen as helpers of the Supreme Being,
doing his work in the world<o:p></o:p>

Another aspect of the relationship between the Supreme Being
and the divinities in West African traditional religion is that the divinities
act as the spirit entities that carry out the will of the Supreme Being. It is
the will of God that his people be blessed, that rains must fall for them in
due season, that they must have bountiful harvest, etc. When the people pray to
God through the divinities, God hears their supplications and acts in answer to
the prayers of the people. God will is carried out by the divinities in answer
to needs of the people.<o:p></o:p>

Conclusion<o:p></o:p>

In conclusion, the relationship between the Supreme Being
and the divinities in West African traditional religion is not seen on the
basis of equality. The people believe that the divinities have some powers to
accomplish certain things but the ultimate power rests with the Supreme Being.
It is a relationship of mutual respect. Each party recognizes its role and
acknowledges the roles of the other.<o:p></o:p>Also Read<a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/06/what-are-some-of-the-moral-lessons-acquired-during-the-use-of-free-leisure-time-in-west-african-traditional-religion-ghana-nigeria-sierra-leone-liberia-togo-bernin-mali.html" target="_blank">What are some moral lessons and skills acquired during the use of free/leisure time in West African Traditional Religion</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/04/why-is-it-important-to-study-west-african-traditional-religion-ghana-nigeria-togo-burinafaso-gambia.html" target="_blank">Why is it important for people to study West African Traditional Religion today?</a> <a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com" target="_blank"><<Back to Home Page</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/list-of-subjects.html?m=1" target="_blank">Go to the list of other subjects>></a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/the-study-of-west-african-traditional.html" target="_blank">Go to the list of other topics in West African Traditional Religion</a>

In what ways are the divinities related to the Supreme Being in West African Traditional Religion?

IN WHAT WAYS ARE THE DIVINITIES RELATED TO THE SUPREME BEING IN WEST AFRICA TRADITIONAL RELIGION? Introduction The term Supreme Being is u...

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Posted by Chester Morton / Friday, 2 June 2023 / No comments

What are the relationships between West African Traditional Religion and tourism?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_TGHIyX98UXg2UNaFQfc2-EVAZp2TBo3-quFeLcwkLkT0l3wajFeWHUJCuSF4Nn-Sm06lo-uIYWw-B9Fq_5uJcRYNvAO94YexlGW6AmXDcpQr_ZJ8jucZcpPzrVCDswUzaEjCzJEWAUH_smaQPrzCJBtWalhcNqWArwPlXQcv8kqFmt7eRxqiWOfrQ/s640/tourism.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_TGHIyX98UXg2UNaFQfc2-EVAZp2TBo3-quFeLcwkLkT0l3wajFeWHUJCuSF4Nn-Sm06lo-uIYWw-B9Fq_5uJcRYNvAO94YexlGW6AmXDcpQr_ZJ8jucZcpPzrVCDswUzaEjCzJEWAUH_smaQPrzCJBtWalhcNqWArwPlXQcv8kqFmt7eRxqiWOfrQ/s320/tourism.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>WHAT ARE THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION AND TOURISM?IntroductionThe indigenous religion of West Africans is referred to as West African Traditional Religion (WATR). This religion was practice before the coming of the Christianity and the advent of Islam. The practice of this religion was prevalent in the West Africa, in countries, including but not limited to, Ghana, Benin, Sierra Leone, Togo, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mali, etc.<o:p></o:p>Tourism, on the other hand refers to the act of traveling to another place other than one's own place and staying to enjoy the new environment. It is normally place far from home, where one can experience different forms of recreation and cultures. It affords one the opportunity to explore new places, sights, etc. Tourism also involves visits to national parks, ancient religious sights and amusement parks.<o:p></o:p>There has been a long-standing relationship between tourism and religion. There has always been a special attraction of travelers to places of religious significance, including places where West African Traditional Religion is practiced. Today, going on pilgrimage to religious places constitute a significant chank of the tourism industry. In recent years, the relationship between religion and tourism has become even more complex, with many people traveling to religious sites for both spiritual and recreational purposes.<o:p></o:p>In this article, we will explore the various ways in which West African Traditional religion and tourism intersect.<o:p></o:p>RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RELIGION AND TOURISMTemporal migration<o:p></o:p>A lot of opportunities and adversities have taken people away from their home region. Some have even travelled to other countries and other continents. Some of the opportunities include education and trade and some adversities include lack of employment, ethnic violence and others. Anytime there is to be an indigenous religious festival, people temporarily migrate to their hometowns or home regions to partage in these religious activities. This serves as a form of religious tourism for the people. In Ghana, the celebration of the Adae kese of the Ashantis draws a lot of indigenous people back home. So also is the Hogbetsotso festival of the Anlo people or the Homowo of the Ga state. These festivals draw people from all parts of Ghana and even people from outside Ghana, who come along with their relatives, and friends for the celebrations. Not only that, they also come with their friends.<o:p></o:p>Time set aside for rest as sacred<o:p></o:p>Another important link between religion and tourism is the time set aside for quality rest. In many cultures, religion and tourism are considered as twins. Time set aside for rest is of particular importance in religious celebrations and activities. During such religious celebrations, serious farm work is suspended for the indigenous people to have time for activities planned for the religious festival. People go on their annual leave to coincide with the celebration of these festivals. It helps them to combine rest and local tourism.<o:p></o:p>Time for contemplationWhen people travel to partake in religious festivals, it is a way of going far away from the hustle and bustle of life. This creates a sense of calmness where they are able to reflect on themselves and their life. There is a feeling of reverence toward the object of worship or a connection to the rituals performed with the various activities. This fosters a felling of peace and tranquility. It is therefore a time to have some level of self-introspection.<o:p></o:p>Leisure time for seeking self-understanding<o:p></o:p>Another link between religion and tourism is the leisure time it creates. There is enough time because work is temporarily suspended. With so much time on the on their hand, people are able to seclude themselves, hiding away from the noise and clutter to reflect on issues of personal importance to them. While reflecting on life, people become aware of things they would otherwise never have known. This helps them to refocus and redirect their life.<o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRT2hnUFrkeJkmjEQuYaDMnvyD8fYZpAvx7fwagd06FN1OCk8Gp-L50SJZ2PeUI3vSR0udjXbqP6zpHG9rf5YHSlYVFE7ptaPc6g_oZOuJNNqd-3pANiHt-wGCwYjmECAzA8q02m_WATXxNKzeHS4NJLDYP6_ynDpZer0dB2L-jV9amVMaxGtdBJ_5_g/s640/grove.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRT2hnUFrkeJkmjEQuYaDMnvyD8fYZpAvx7fwagd06FN1OCk8Gp-L50SJZ2PeUI3vSR0udjXbqP6zpHG9rf5YHSlYVFE7ptaPc6g_oZOuJNNqd-3pANiHt-wGCwYjmECAzA8q02m_WATXxNKzeHS4NJLDYP6_ynDpZer0dB2L-jV9amVMaxGtdBJ_5_g/s320/grove.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: center;">(Forest)</div>Religious Pilgrimage<o:p></o:p>Religious pilgrimage is a type of tourism that involves traveling to a location with special religious significance. Pilgrimage tourism is often motivated by a desire to visit holy places, participate in religious rituals, or take part in a special religious event. Pilgrims may travel to other countries or even other continents to visit religious sites and engage in spiritual activities. This type of tourism is often associated with economic benefits, as pilgrims typically spend money on accommodation, food, and other services during their visit. Additionally, religious pilgrimage can have a positive impact on local communities, as it can bring increased awareness and a greater appreciation for the local culture and religious practices.<o:p></o:p>Excursions to religious centres<o:p></o:p>The link between excursions to religious centres and tourism is that they both involve travelling to specific locations for different reasons. Religious centres are typically places of pilgrimage or places of worship, while tourism typically involves travelling for leisure or entertainment. Both involve journeys to different places, often with different motivations, and can be seen as part of a broader travel experience. Excursions to religious centres can be seen as an important part of tourism, as they can provide a unique cultural and spiritual experience.<o:p></o:p>Educational value of visit to religious centres<o:p></o:p>Visits to places of religious importance, like religious festivals and pilgrimages to sacred religious sites, are of great educational value to the visitors. The simple reason for this is that, the trove of information they receive during the visit is more than gold. It gives them a special insight into the reasons for some of the activities they are exposed to. There is therefore a better appreciation of their customs and practices. It also [people to learn to be at peace with others since there is an understanding of their ways of life.<o:p></o:p>Healing, spiritual strength, etc.<o:p></o:p>During religious festivals, people go back to connect with the ancestors to help them understand certain things that are happening in their lives at that particular time. Things for which answers have eluded them. West African Traditional Religion and tourism are intertwined since it is during these tours that such connections with the divine take place. It is also within these periods that people discover more things about the religion and its cultural practices. As tourists attend these religious festivals, the get to know more about the religion of the West African people.<o:p></o:p>Conclusion<o:p></o:p>There are two schools of thought on the relationship between religion and tourism. While some see it as a significant attraction to tourists, offering them unique chances to explore the culture of the people, others see it as a way of stirring controversy and unnecessary commercialization of the religion. Having said this, we can come to the conclusion that traditional religious practices still constitute a major aspect of the tourism destinations in West Africa. What is important is to ensure that both schools of thought derive the maximum benefit from what it has come to be.Also Read:<a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/04/what-is-the-nature-of-west-african-traditonal-religion-and-what-are-the-specific-beliefs-in-the-supernatural.html" target="_blank">The nature of African Traditional Religion</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/04/what-are-the-major-characteristics-of-west-african-traditional-religion.html" target="_blank">The characteristics of West African Traditional Religion</a> <a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com" target="_blank"><<Back to Home Page</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/list-of-subjects.html?m=1" target="_blank">Go to the list of other subjects>></a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/the-study-of-west-african-traditional.html" target="_blank">Go to other topics in West African Traditional Religion>></a>

What are the relationships between West African Traditional Religion and tourism?

WHAT ARE THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION AND TOURISM? Introduction The indigenous religion of West Africans ...

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What is the nature of West African Traditional Religion and what are the specific beliefs in the supernatural

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYV83t3znWvV-uS7UrUqPCBuKaR3xUXJx676gJCn702U_lCgmOIJSNUauWDQvZiH0XI_ExE-3EyfKHXUpMuX_fDt3bl26h7Er1uYzQEc9PumEUHoZNhmnkD6jNr6pUzaAjdM5DytYQEL2F7hlfCpt2ZiY12Zt8U1k5yJngKJJI7AzWrd30qAlG6gC7dA/s480/Nature%20of%20God%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="480" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYV83t3znWvV-uS7UrUqPCBuKaR3xUXJx676gJCn702U_lCgmOIJSNUauWDQvZiH0XI_ExE-3EyfKHXUpMuX_fDt3bl26h7Er1uYzQEc9PumEUHoZNhmnkD6jNr6pUzaAjdM5DytYQEL2F7hlfCpt2ZiY12Zt8U1k5yJngKJJI7AzWrd30qAlG6gC7dA/s320/Nature%20of%20God%201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> WHAT IS THE NATURE OF WEST AFRICAN TRADITONAL RELIGION?<o:p></o:p>

Definition<o:p></o:p>

West African Traditional Religion (WATR) in the simplest
definition refers to the indigenous religious practices of the people of West
Africa before the advent of Islam, Christianity and any other form of religion.
<o:p></o:p>

It is practiced in the West African countries like Ghana,
Benin, Sierra Leone, Togo, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mali, etc. It was not
a religion that was introduced into the Sub-region by missionaries. It was
practiced by the local people. <o:p></o:p>

Currently, only a tiny fraction of the people of West Africa
have remained adherents of the indigenous practice. In Ghana, according to the
2021 census figures, 3.2% of the Ghanaian population practice traditional
religion. According to the Association of Religious Data Archives in 2020, in
Nigeria, traditional region followers were 7.2% of the total population of
Nigeria. <o:p></o:p>

There are some peculiar features that are used to determine
the nature of West African Traditional Religion, for example, the belief in one
Supreme Being, the worship of many deities, ancestral veneration, etc. These are
outlined in the paragraphs below.<o:p></o:p>

The
belief in one Supreme Being<o:p></o:p>

One
of the major features of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) is the belief
in one Supreme Being or God. This Being is seen as the creator and is called
God. It has a different name among the various peoples. The Yorubas in Nigeria
call him Oluwa, the Igbo in Nigeria call him Chukwu, the Akans in Ghana call
him Nyame, the Gas call him Atta-Naa Nyonmo, the Ewes call him Mawu. The
Supreme being is considered the origin of everything. Every life is believed to
have come from Him. He knows everything, he is all powerful and has authority
over everything on earth.<o:p></o:p>

Belief
in several gods<o:p></o:p>

Aside
from the belief in one Supreme Being, there is also the belief in a plethora of
gods or deities. In other words, WATR is characterized by polytheism. The West
African believes that there are individual gods responsible for different
aspects of their lives. There is a dog responsible for rain, for bumper
harvest, dispute resolution, and social control. There is a god that controls
thunder, a god that protects the village, a god that protects the innocent
against false accusation, there is a god that upholds moral uprightness and
ensures justice. They are not considered as rivals to the Supreme Being. They
are seen more as allies, working below him for the good of humanity.<o:p></o:p>

Ancestral
veneration<o:p></o:p>

Another
key feature is the veneration of ancestors. In WATR, when people die, they are
not seen completely gone. They have just transitioned into another realm where
they continue to be part of the living but in another form and playing a
different role. The ancestor is seen as the spirit version of a family member
who is no longer alive. Not everybody, though, is considered as an ancestor. To
qualify as an ancestor, one must have lived up to a ripe old age, must have
lived a life worthy of emulation and must have played a very significant role
in the lives of the living. You must have died a good death. For example, if
you commit suicide, you cannot qualify to be an ancestor. The ancestors are
honoured for their contribution to the living while they were alive. The living
ask for their protection, they seek guidance to continue to live. <o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqda66Z1N6X7B-EQmf8Hpx8FOanz4O-QnjPVaW-WXr4gwPBHYdD_hRxskLb_a01Ju-QK9B8iL-LhzNGMrVLbV8zub9pcIkGEuf-pnjUhLTd-FvMOBFVnSHnolx3NxHKVYqH7dFs7AFqPVzegcJZs5Mxc0EsNwR1Rdse5Jeziokf4lEQbbFwFLTURRmA/s510/Nature%20of%20God%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="510" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqda66Z1N6X7B-EQmf8Hpx8FOanz4O-QnjPVaW-WXr4gwPBHYdD_hRxskLb_a01Ju-QK9B8iL-LhzNGMrVLbV8zub9pcIkGEuf-pnjUhLTd-FvMOBFVnSHnolx3NxHKVYqH7dFs7AFqPVzegcJZs5Mxc0EsNwR1Rdse5Jeziokf4lEQbbFwFLTURRmA/s320/Nature%20of%20God%202.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Belief
in mystical powers

In
WTR, the followers believe in mystical powers. The people believe that the
spirits of the ancestors can influence and control the lives of the living.
They believe that when certain rituals are performed, it is able to influence
spiritual forces and bring out desired results. They believe there are
spiritual forces that are capable of either harming or helping people.<o:p></o:p>

The
use of charms and amulets<o:p></o:p>

In
WATR, charms and amulets are of essence. The followers of the religion believe
that the charms and amulets bring them luck. They believe it has the power to
bring them protection if they wear them. Amulets bring good fortune and have
healing powers. Many people use charms to treat sicknesses.<o:p></o:p>

Emphasis
on traditional ceremonies<o:p></o:p>

In
WATR, the people place a lot of emphasis on ceremonies. When a child is born,
ceremonies are performed to usher the child into the world. When the same child
attains the age of maturity, a different set of ceremonies are performed to
indicate his/her becoming an adult. At the time marriage, ceremonies must be
performed. When death occurs, ceremonies are performed. Funerals are unique.
They perform certain rites before the dead is buried.<o:p></o:p>

Some questions to ponder over:<o:p></o:p>

1. Outline the nature of West African Traditional Religion.<o:p></o:p>

2. In what ways are the divinities related to the Supreme
Being in West African Traditional Religion?<o:p></o:p>3. What are the specific beliefs in the supernatural in West Africa Traditional Religion?<a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com" target="_blank"><<Back to Home Page</a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/list-of-subjects.html?m=1" target="_blank">Go to the list of other subjects>></a> <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/p/the-study-of-west-african-traditional.html" target="_blank">Go to other topics in West African Traditional Religion</a>

What is the nature of West African Traditional Religion and what are the specific beliefs in the supernatural

WHAT IS THE NATURE OF WEST AFRICAN TRADITONAL RELIGION? Definition West African Traditional Religion (WATR) in the simplest definition...

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What are the major characteristics of West African Traditional Religion?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7wlLd-pmwwzpygpBnmz1rfZqwpum6KnwDdWhugzux79bVmZnqsZsNA1qH8SlJPihH29GbnBMfkD6TknQlVlV2HRms44MZ0VOP02HCsqEqMiFNgzbEe55KiRvskxXehHiVdDl0pcxZ1XLdzczBGu5sCjKdcgOjSQchmCzwJMDa5gLjZqchQV8_WLObQ/s297/Based%20on%20oral%20literature.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="210" data-original-width="297" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr7wlLd-pmwwzpygpBnmz1rfZqwpum6KnwDdWhugzux79bVmZnqsZsNA1qH8SlJPihH29GbnBMfkD6TknQlVlV2HRms44MZ0VOP02HCsqEqMiFNgzbEe55KiRvskxXehHiVdDl0pcxZ1XLdzczBGu5sCjKdcgOjSQchmCzwJMDa5gLjZqchQV8_WLObQ/s1600/Based%20on%20oral%20literature.gif" width="297" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CHARACTERISTICS OF WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">

Definition<o:p></o:p>

There are some peculiar features that are used to identify
what exactly is referred to as West African Traditional Religion, for example,
it does not have a founder, it is based on oral traditions and handed down by
word of mouth, it does not make use of missionaries to propagate, etc. These
and many more are discussed in the paragraphs below.<o:p></o:p>

The characteristics of West African Traditional Religion<o:p></o:p>

The
religion has no founder<o:p></o:p>

One
of the major features of West African Traditional Religion (WATR) is that there
is no single individual or groups of individuals who can be pointed out as the
founder or founders of the religion like we find in the case of Christianity
which is believed to be founded by Jesus and Mohammed (Peace be upon Him) for
Islam. Christianity and Islam are monotheistic religions and have just one
founder. WATR recognizes many deities. Their beliefs and practices had to
evolve over several centuries. While evolving, the beliefs and practices were
handed down through generations.<o:p></o:p>

It
is based on oral literature<o:p></o:p>

In
ancient West Africa, the art of writing had not been discovered early enough
until the coming of European missionaries. Those who practiced West African
Traditional Religion could, therefore, not codify their religion as was done in
the case of Islam and Christianity. In short, the religion does not have
written documents like the bible for the Christians and the Quran for the
Muslims. <o:p></o:p>

In
order to preserve the knowledge of the religion, the people had to resort to
other forms of documentation. They preserved the history, beliefs and practices
about the religion in their songs and chants, folklore, tales and fables. The
literature surrounding the religion is in the oral form and therefore handed
down from generation to generation by word of mouth.<o:p></o:p>

There
are no missionaries<o:p></o:p>

A
typical adherent of WATR does not believe that religion must be imposed on
anybody. Rather, it has to be experienced by the person. It is the person’s
personal relationship with the spirit entities or deities involved. <o:p></o:p>

The
main focus is not to convert other people to their form of worship. To the
practitioner of West African Traditional Religion, people have to experience
the spiritual world as individuals and not as a collective. It is those who
believe in the deity that must carry and practice it. There are, therefore, no
missionaries in West African Traditional Religion. Evangelism, as is seen in
both Islam and Christianity, is absent in West African Traditional Religion.<o:p></o:p>

Rituals,
sacrifices and divination<o:p></o:p>

A
major part of the religion is characterized by rituals. When a child is born, a
ritual is performed. When a child attains puberty age, there are rituals to
usher them into puberty. There are rituals for marriage, when death occurs,
depending on the cause of death. Rituals are performed to honour the deities
which may involve the offering of food, and drinks<o:p></o:p>

Alongside
rituals, we also have sacrifices. In fact, sacrifices are a major aspect of
rituals. There are different types of sacrifices. People sacrifice animals,
some sacrifice plants and some also sacrifice food. In ancient times, the
practice of human sacrifice was believed to have taken place. Such sacrifices
were used to honour the gods. Some sacrifices were specifically demanded by the
deities but some are offered by the people of their own volition as a form of
honour or to request some favours from them.<o:p></o:p>

The
quest to know the future is a desire that is shared by many people. In West
African Traditional Religion, the practice of knowing the unknown called
divination. There are trained or gifted people in the society that have the
capacity to reveal the unknown. Some items are used to perform this task though
the process may vary from place to place. Items like cowrie shells, sticks,
bones etc. Divination may be used to communicate with the departed souls of
ancestors.<o:p></o:p>

Religion
permeates every aspect of life<o:p></o:p>

In
West Africa, religion is everything and everything is religion. In other words,
every aspect of life among the traditional West African is seen through the
glass of religion. This is because religion provides a way by which they identify
themselves. The religion allows them to feel a sense of community, and gives
them purpose for the life they live. West African Traditional Religion is
deeply rooted in their culture, values, and beliefs. Through it, they are able
to connect to the past, present, and future. In times of need, the religion
provides a high level of comfort. The morals of the people are shaped by the
religion. Their form of social justice is derived from the principles embedded
in the religion. <o:p></o:p>Question to ponder over: 1. State and explain the characteristics of
West African Traditional Religion.2. In what ways are 
the characteristics of WATR
different from those of 
Christianity or Islam?<o:p></o:p>

Also Read <a href="https://www.virtualkollage.com/2023/04/why-is-it-important-to-study-west-african-traditional-religion-ghana-nigeria-togo-burinafaso-gambia.html" target="_blank">Why it is important for people to study West African Traditional Religion</a>

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What are the major characteristics of West African Traditional Religion?

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR CHARACTERISTICS OF WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION? Definition West African Traditional Religion (WATR) in the simp...

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Why is it important for people to study West African Traditional Religion today?

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7GrJtfWynRoyUehvE7UFovStepQU708Jzt31BDvtoKx9F13dh-DfreZ7-U8AjEocMDQ3aADRtmMEQC_QMVZwHq_WHCzN1upyAh9pzKaTKv2gdcMg3WX4poWbulO95ollW4BQX_9G7YjOY8YA2iNJC8mv2tZ8byu8UjZc2Fons_Wq45KtcWM4A7Prvw/s940/Your%20paragraph%20text.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7GrJtfWynRoyUehvE7UFovStepQU708Jzt31BDvtoKx9F13dh-DfreZ7-U8AjEocMDQ3aADRtmMEQC_QMVZwHq_WHCzN1upyAh9pzKaTKv2gdcMg3WX4poWbulO95ollW4BQX_9G7YjOY8YA2iNJC8mv2tZ8byu8UjZc2Fons_Wq45KtcWM4A7Prvw/w400-h335/Your%20paragraph%20text.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO STUDY WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL
RELIGION TODAY?<o:p></o:p>

Definition<o:p></o:p>

West African Traditional Religion (WATR) in the simplest definition
refers to the indigenous religion practiced by the locals before the arrival of
non-native West Africans to the area. The religious practices that existed long
before the arrival of Islam, Christianity and any other form of religion. <o:p></o:p>

It is practiced in countries like Ghana, Benin, Sierra
Leone, Togo, Liberia, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mali, just to mention a few. It
originates from the West African Sub-region. It was not brought or introduced
into the region by missionaries like in the case of Christianity and Islam. <o:p></o:p>

The adherents of West African Traditional Religion believe
in many gods and goddesses and many other spiritual bodies. They venerate their
ancestors and consider them as part of the living.<o:p></o:p>

Like John Mbiti said in his book African religions and
philosophy, “The African is notoriously religious”. West African Traditional
Religion is still practiced today by many people in West Africa, and has also
been adopted by some people in the African diaspora. In Ghana, according to the
2021 census figures, 3.2% of the Ghanaian population practice traditional
religion. According to the Association of Religious Data Archives in 2020, in
Nigeria, traditional region followers were 7.2% of the total population of
Nigeria. The percentage is skewed against traditional religion in many other countries
of West Africa. If this is the reality, and many people have moved to join
religions other than those practiced by their ancestors, why bother to study it
in the first place?<o:p></o:p>

The study of West African Traditional Religion in modern
times is important for many reasons. <o:p></o:p>

To provide insights into the religion<o:p></o:p>

One of the reasons why it is important to study West African
Religion is that it provides insights into the culture of the people. With the
coming of Islam and Christianity, many, especially, young people are unable to
appreciate the value of West African Traditional Religion to the adherents.
This lack of insight makes people who do not understand the culture of the
people, the things that bind them together socially, and the influence of the
religion over their political dynamics, to look down on the religion. It is the
belief that a knowledge of the religion will give the needed deep understanding
and appreciation of the world around them, the linkages between them and the
world in which they live. <o:p></o:p>

Studying West African Traditional Religion is again
important because it makes it easier to understand the thinking of the people and
how they behave. It is difficult to understand people if you do not know the principles
upon which their behaviour is based. The ways of a people are determined by their
religion and the indigenous West African are not different. Their ways are
shaped by the principles that underpin their religion.  It is important, therefore, to study West
African Traditional Religion so that we can understand the people who practice
that religion and their world.<o:p></o:p>

Adjust policy to suit the thinking of the people<o:p></o:p>

Some policy initiatives in West Africa have not worked as
smoothly as was envisaged on the drawing board. Policy failures may have been
due to several reasons, including the misunderstanding of the religious beliefs
of the people. The Jehovah’s Witnesses, for example, do not accept blood
transfusion and do not donate either. This doctrine is well documented. <o:p></o:p>

A study of West African Traditional Religion is important so
that policy makers can understand the rationale behind their beliefs, customs
and practices to be able to initiate policies that take these nuances into
consideration in the planning and subsequent implementation of government policies
directed to them.<o:p></o:p>

Political parties, using knowledge about WATR to carve
messages directed to the adherents of the religion. Business entities like
insurance companies could also use their knowledge about WATR to design
insurance policies that cater for their needs. Marketing companies may also use
that knowledge to design messages directed to that segment of the market.<o:p></o:p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU75OztMAZg7ERofMEm3qq3pPoXrdy5u92naKmkaWkicbdjQiw0dc5JykOSvgwfbP4uc6ki5f6woWyVfkUJEdi_6lk6AioE4N46mBYTcEyH60ehw-VS6DbcAfBPbMROwJfBFDW_VBCWcbg80Z7A7GcCg_huj5davIoCAaGxaNS-kDVMxe4fetaNRKA0w/s510/WATR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="510" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU75OztMAZg7ERofMEm3qq3pPoXrdy5u92naKmkaWkicbdjQiw0dc5JykOSvgwfbP4uc6ki5f6woWyVfkUJEdi_6lk6AioE4N46mBYTcEyH60ehw-VS6DbcAfBPbMROwJfBFDW_VBCWcbg80Z7A7GcCg_huj5davIoCAaGxaNS-kDVMxe4fetaNRKA0w/s320/WATR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>(An African village) <div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;">Application of traditional moral principles</div>

Like many other religions, West African Traditional Religion
has some moral teachings which were used, in the past, to control social
behaviour. Some of those moral teachings may still be relevant to modern
society. A study of West African Traditional Religion would, therefore, help to
adopt ways for applying those moral principles in their daily lives and how
they relate to people and the environment.<o:p></o:p>

Help people to understand and appreciate the indigenous
beliefs of the people<o:p></o:p>

Knowledge among many people today about West African
Traditional Region is scanty. Many people see it as a very bad religion,
associating it with devilish activities. A deeper study of the religion may
help people to know about the religion, understand the underlying practices.
With this knowledge, the people can appreciate the indigenous beliefs of the
people.<o:p></o:p>

Promote coexistence with people of other religions<o:p></o:p>

There are three main religions in many of the West African
countries; we have Christianity, Islam and West African Traditional Religion
(WATR). The first two have overtaken WATR in popularity and size though it was
the major religion before the coming of the first two. All the three have
existed for a while now, though there have been some clashes. It is important
to study West African Traditional Religion in order to encourage the three
religions to co-exist for lasting peace to reign.<o:p></o:p>

Promotes a better appreciation of other religions<o:p></o:p>

Today, we live in global village and the power of the
World-Wide World, unites us though we live miles apart from each other. A study
of WATR would give a better knowledge of the culture and religious traditions
of the various regions of the world. This would throw more light on the
understanding of the world.<o:p></o:p>Some questions to ponder over: 1. Analyze the rationale for the study of West African Traditional Religion.2. Explain why the educated African should study West African Traditional Religion.Religion <a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com/" style="font-size: large;" target="_blank"><<Back to Home Page</a><a href="http://www.virtualkollage.com/p/list-of-subjects.html" target="_blank">Go to the list of other subjects>></a>

Why is it important for people to study West African Traditional Religion today?

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE TO STUDY WEST AFRICAN TRADITIONAL RELIGION TODAY? Definition West African Traditional Religion (WATR) i...

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Why is it important for people to study West African Traditional Religion today?

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