An inquiry into the meaning and nature of peace in 'Ifa': a Yoruba divination system

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Periodical article

Title:	An inquiry into the meaning and nature of peace in 'Ifa': a Yoruba divination system
Author:	Jegede, Charles Obafemi
Year:	2007
Periodical:	Orita: Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies
Volume:	39
Issue:	2
Pages:	1-21
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	Ifá conflict resolution peace
Abstract:	'Ifa' is a corpus system of divination practised among the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria. 'Ifa' includes myths regarding peace, war, conflict and conflict resolution. These values form part of the time-proven social systems among the Yoruba. Approaching peace and conflict issues in Africa using only Western scientific paradigms is a neglect of valuable decisive factors. Peace from the African perspective is about harmony between all humans and spiritual forces as well as energies in the cosmos. Based on fieldwork carried out between 2001 and 2006, this paper uses 'Ifa' to mirror the meaning and nature of peace, peacebuilding and peace studies in Africa as a whole. The paper explains ancient 'Ifa' peacebuilding strategies, namely rituals, covenant making and collective actions. Ref., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract]