The role of traditional rulers in the islamization of Osun State (Nigeria)

bibliographic database
Line

Periodical article

Title:	The role of traditional rulers in the islamization of Osun State (Nigeria)
Author:	Adebayo, Ibrahim R.
Year:	2010
Periodical:	Journal for Islamic Studies (ISSN 0257-7062)
Volume:	30
Pages:	60-77
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	Islamization traditional rulers
Abstract:	Since its arrival in Yorubaland, southwest Nigeria, Islam has spread like burning fire during harmattan. Many factors in this process of islamization have been studied, but not much attention has been given to the role of traditional rulers. Many kings were (and are still) believed to be the chief priests of their domains and custodians of their traditional local culture. This is not in line with the teaching of Islam which preaches absolute tawhid (monotheism), hence this factor has been neglected by Muslim historians. Some of these royal fathers, whether they embraced Islam or not, have impacted the spread of the religion within their domains. This paper examines the roles played by these traditional rulers in the spread of Islam in Yorubaland, with particular reference to Osun State. It explores the relationship between the rulers and their respective Muslim communities, and the impact they had on Islam and traditional society. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]