Divine images in Nweh narratives, South West Province of Cameroon

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Periodical article

Title:	Divine images in Nweh narratives, South West Province of Cameroon
Author:	Alembong, Nol
Year:	1994
Periodical:	Bulletin of the International Committee on Urgent Anthropological and Ethnological Research
Issue:	36
Pages:	151-160
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Cameroon
Subjects:	African religions Bamileke
Abstract:	The Nweh, one of the major tribes in the South West Province of Cameroon, worship a hierarchy of gods and believe in god, whom they call 'ndem'. 'Belem' (divinities) derive their existence from 'ndem'. They are connected with natural objects, such as rivers, rocks or hills, and are associated with personal, family and clan rituals. They are also seen as active forces whose capabilities may not be questioned without fear of reprisal. Nweh narratives and myths show that the Nweh conceive of god as a creator. They also see the gods as omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent. Another image that features in Nweh narratives is the ability of gods to assume different forms and temperaments. The gods are also portrayed as having bodily parts just the same as human beings. This enhances people's awareness of their closeness to the gods and is a recognition of the link between the human and spiritual realms. Notes, ref.