Nobel Laureate and renowned playwright, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has stirred discussions about religion in Nigeria by expressing his preference for traditional Orisa worship over Christianity and Islam.
In a recent interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo, Soyinka shared his thoughts on spirituality, faith, and the significance of Orisa worship in his life.
Soyinka explained that his interest in Orisa worship comes from his deep cultural roots. He emphasized that he was fortunate to be born into a family that embraced both Christian and traditional beliefs.
“My grandfather, until he was converted, was an Orisa worshipper and a chief,” he said. “His side of Orisa fascinated me a lot more.”
For Soyinka, Orisa worship represents a rich tapestry of creativity and mystery that he finds lacking in the other religions. “For me, it was more artistic, creative, and also more mysterious,” he remarked.
Soyinka elaborated on the characteristics of Orisa worship that appeal to him. He stated, “Orisa is open and very ecumenical.”
He believes that the nature of Orisa worship allows it to coexist with other religions, even though this has led to some distortions of its original beliefs.
“Because of the generosity of this spirit (Orisa), it is not violent,” he stated. “It is one of those African religions which eschew violence.”
Critique of Other Religions
In contrast, Soyinka expressed his view that both Christianity and Islam lack the same depth and openness. He described his experience of these faiths as limited, particularly when it comes to their mysterious aspects.
“I don’t find much of the mysterious in Christianity and even less in Islam,” he explained. “And that is for a simple reason that I didn’t grow up in a Muslim environment.”
Soyinka went on to make a bold statement about his beliefs. He stated, “I don’t believe in the Islamic or Christian God.”
For many, this would be seen as a declaration of atheism. However, Soyinka embraces this label. “If that makes me an atheist, so I say, I am an atheist,” he affirmed.
Despite this declaration, he believes that all humans possess a spiritual core. “I insisted that all human beings have a certain spiritual core in their being,” he said.
Soyinka’s remarks highlight a significant aspect of Nigerian culture: the coexistence of multiple religious beliefs.
Nigeria is home to a rich diversity of religions, including traditional African beliefs, Christianity, and Islam. While these religions often coexist, tensions can arise, particularly when it comes to beliefs and practices.
By expressing his preference for Orisa worship, Soyinka adds to the ongoing conversation about faith in Nigeria. His views encourage people to reflect on their beliefs and the ways in which culture influences spirituality.
Soyinka’s statements also underscore the importance of cultural identity in shaping one’s spiritual beliefs. For many Nigerians, traditional beliefs coexist with organized religions. This blending of faiths allows for a unique spiritual experience that is often overlooked.
“Orisa worship is part of my identity,” Soyinka noted. “It connects me to my ancestors and my culture in a way that feels authentic.”
Soyinka’s critique of Christianity and Islam raises questions about the role of religion in contemporary Nigerian society.
As Nigeria faces challenges such as insecurity and violence, some argue that religious beliefs can play a role in these issues. Soyinka’s assertion that Orisa worship eschews violence offers a contrast to the violence that has sometimes been associated with religious extremism.
