Edo religion
I can explain how some of the Edo's religious beliefs are visible in their artwork.
Edo religion
I can explain how some of the Edo's religious beliefs are visible in their artwork.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Some of the objects held by the British Museum can tell us about the Edo's religious beliefs.
- One brass statue is a head, decorated with animals, that was used during worship of the god Osun.
- Osun was the Edo god of medicine and magic and was believed to command the animals of the rainforest.
- The head represents how the Oba was believed to have magic powers like the gods; the birds represent prophesy.
- The snakes represent Osun's soldiers and the Oba's ability to use magic to destroy his enemies.
Common misconception
The Oba in Edo society was merely a religious figure.
While the Oba did have significant religious functions and was seen as having a special connection to the divine, his role also extended to that of political leader, responsible for governance, justice, and maintaining order within the kingdom.
Keywords
Deity - a deity is a god, goddess or supernatural being that some people worship and believe in
Prophecy - a prophecy is a prediction of the future
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
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