Ancient benin beliefs
Ancient benin beliefs. As noted, ancient indigenous beliefs continued to be practised, especially in rural communities, as recorded by travellers like Ibn Battuta who visited Mali c. From Benin City, 16th-17th century CE. Edo Royal Wedding. This was rooted in an indigenous belief Explore these questions and more while discovering notable traditions, figures, and legends that figured prominently in ancient religion and mythology. Harris: [2:46] Visitors to the court in Benin City would have seen a fabulous palace with an audience hall decorated with these plaques. What were their religious beliefs? Citizens of Ancient Benin predominantly followed a ‘Traditional’ religious path. [4] Yoruba kingdoms prospered until the slave trade and warfare of the nineteenth century took their toll. Its structure arose from the blending of the traditional religions Ancient Mesopotamians and Semites believed that snakes were immortal because they could infinitely shed their skin and appear forever youthful, appearing in a fresh guise every time. A Vodun priest in Benin photographed in 2018. Perhaps no Benin bronze work, in contemporary art historical reading, expresses this better than a twentieth Ancient Egyptian deities are the gods and goddesses worshipped in ancient Egypt. In the precolonial period, the territory comprised a multiplicity of independent states, differing in language and culture. [4] Reliable recent statistics do not exist; however, Nigeria is divided roughly in half between Muslims, who live mostly in the northern region, and Christians, who live mostly in the southern region of the A centuries-old relic associated with ancient Christian practice in Japan is causing a stir in the Japanese media. Roman Britain, the Tudors, the Ancient Egyptians, Aztecs and the Maya and place the Kingdom of Benin at the correct place on This ancient Africa timeline poster will help to teach your children some of the history of the Kingdom of Benin in Ancient Africa. Benin was once a great African kingdom, but it was transformed into the largest supplier of humans for the slave trade. However, the skepticism that was voiced in ancient Egypt against the value of a proper burial tends to reflect the attitude of an individual rather than the sense of the community; and as far as Egyptian religion is concerned, the beliefs of the community were paramount (Bleeker 1967: 9-10). sacred_python_temple_of_ouidah_benin_entrance-1 Overview of the Python Temple. A divination tray on which cowrie shells rests, as are used for Ifá divination. Before the arrival of the Israelites, snake cults were well established in Canaan in the Bronze Age, for archaeologists have The awakened international consultations for the return of the looted ancient Benin bronzes forming part of the holdings of museums in Germany and the UK stirred schism among the governments of Edo State (sub-national), the Nigerian Federation and the Benin Royal Palace led by the Oba of Benin (the Oba Palace is located at the centre of Benin Religion. The city is also linked by roads to Sapele, Siluko, Okene, and Ubiaja and is served by air and the Niger River delta ports of Koko and Sapele. After being governed by over The people of Ancient Benin traded with merchants from Europe and with other African Kingdoms. Choose a topic . Edo Guapa. Map of Ancient African States; Perhaps the earlier Nok Culture and Igbo-Ukwu had an influence on life. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before visiting this intriguing temple. The loa, or lwa, appear in different families, including the Ghede, Petro, and Radha. 1504; the son of Ewuare) and Esigie (early to mid-16th century; the son of Ozolua), who enjoyed good relations Explore the ancient Benin Wall, a fascinating piece of Nigerian history!In this video, we delve into the rich history of the Benin Empire and its iconic wall Find information about the Benin Kingdom creation story. Walls were another The Benin Republic in West Africa is the birthplace of voodoo and home to the Python Temple. Greek religion as it is currently understood probably resulted from the mingling of religious beliefs and practices between the incoming Greek-speaking peoples who arrived from the north during the Eweka I (reigned 1200 AD – 1235 AD) was the first Oba of Benin and presided over the kingdom's shift from the Ogiso Dynasty to the establishment of the Obaship. My grandmother taught me to appreciate architecture. Benin, one of the principal historic kingdoms of the western African forest region (fl. 7. The south was occupied mainly by Ewe-speaking peoples, who traced their traditional origins to The art of Benin features people, animals and gods. This religion has nothing to do with the Bible or the Quran like Christianity or Islam. The Edo people: The Edo people are the original people and founders of the Benin Kingdom. The tamed cats only have one lord; the Oba Himself, who talks and commands them at will Tylor defines culture as that complex whole of man’s acquisitions of knowledge, moral, beliefs, art, customs technology etc which are share and transmitted from generation to generation. Ovia's historical origins can be traced back to the ancient Kingdom of Benin, known for its cultural traditions and governance structure. In this episode, Ben and Noel examine a common practice from ancient Mayan culture: the ritual alcohol enema. Nigeria is more than twice the size of California. Indus Valley Civilization. Home. With the help of other high-ranking priests, he makes The ancient Egyptians worshipped many thousands of gods and deities who ruled over all aspects of their lives. From the traditional arts and music of the Benin kingdom to the religious and spiritual practices of the people. In This term's topic is ANCIENT BENIN. Scanty and unreliable sources still seem to give some reasons to suppose that the interregnum between two originally Ife dynasties saw a finally unsuccessful attempt of the pre-Bini first-settlers of the land, the Efa, to get rid of the Bini's dominance by abolishing the institution 1. The nearest in form and style to Edo culture is that of ancient Romans whose law, culture, social and architectural forms compare in similar terms to the ancient Benin (Edo). However, you may not be surprised to learn that the ancient Egyptians had a very complex belief system about the Early Evidence of Religious Practice. This project work is geared towards the expansion of knowledge in the area of greeting in Benin (Ukhu egbe na a tue vbe edo). A comprehensive overview of Yoruba's history, culture, and religious influence on art. He then sent his four sons to rule over different parts of the world. Greek sculptors adored the human form, painters loved to tell stories on Greek pottery, and the Greek architectural orders can still be seen around the world today in all sorts of buildings. pdf; Lesson 2 - Religion - Lesson Pack/Animal Clay Tiles Craft Instructions - Black and White. In contemporary culture, modern interpretations of Beni Hasan’s myths continue to evolve, often reimagining ancient stories in the context of current societal values and beliefs. With its countless deities, animal sacrifice and spirit possession, voodoo Some key Obas and Iyoba: Oba Ewuare – (Reign: 1440-1473) Rebuilt much of Benin and expanded the territory and kingdom structures. According to Ifá teaching, the divinatory system is Learn about ancient civilisations in West Africa during the time of the Benin empire, including the Nok and Asante people in this BBC Bitesize year 5/6 primary history guide. [1] The anthropologist Timothy R. Greek religion is not the same as Greek mythology, which is concerned with traditional tales, though the two are closely interlinked. History And Meaning and Spread Of The Voodoo Religion: Vodou developed among Afro-Haitian communities amid the Atlantic slave trade of the 16th to 19th centuries. This book that delves deep into the heart of Benin culture also explores the roles of the monarchy in The people of Benin made many different kinds of art. It is an ancient religion, more than 10,000 years old and is the legacy of the Ewe, Kabye, Mina and Fon ethnic groups. Animism, the concept of multiple souls, and ancestral spirits shape the worldview of indigenous Filipinos. Remove Ads. In the late 1400s, a flourishing and wealthy royal court was in place, with a palace harboring a vast compound where metalsmiths, carvers and others created At Benin, bells in the form of truncated, four-sided pyramids were arrayed on altars and sounded to summon the ancestors to hear the prayers of their descendants. This tradition is as old as the creation of the world which is still practice till date. com) is a former Sheraton Hotel with 250 comfortable rooms, tennis courts and a restaurant that A cast brass plaque depicting warriors of the kingdom of Benin (13-19th century CE) in West Africa (modern southern Nigeria). 1 The conference enquired about the nature of non-Western contact with world religions, apart from major Eastern religions – and the consequences of often abrupt and violent encounters with the West – and Ancient Benin Kingdom & Edo State : Where Modernity And Tradition Meets In perfect Harmony Traditional religion is rooted in an indigenous belief system based on a Supreme being supported by deities and natural forces, which act as intermediaries between the divine, and humanity. Location: Ouidah, southern Benin Like many ancient cultures, the civilizations of Mesoamerica had a vast and rich history of unique cultural practices, spiritual beliefs and ceremonies, some of which may seem bizarre to people in the modern day. They no longer wanted to be ruled by their the ancient kingdom of Dahomey, the present Republic of Bénin, are presented and discussed. 2. Scanty and unreliable sources still seem to give some reasons to suppose that the interregnum between two originally Ife dynasties saw a finally unsuccessful attempt of the pre-Bini first-settlers of the land, the Efa, to get rid of the Bini's dominance by abolishing the institution Altogether more uplifting is the legend of the Batammaliba people in Togo and Benin in Africa. It consists of tales of various deities, beings, legendary creatures, heroes and folktales from various ethnic groups. The moats were dug around the 16th century by BENIN GODS & BELIEFS. This was rooted in an indigenous belief system based on a Supreme The nearest in form and style to Edo culture is that of ancient Romans whose law, culture, social and architectural forms compare in similar terms to the ancient Benin (Edo). Help children learn about different West African Kingdoms with this worksheet. However, the entire worship ceremonies and the religion itself seems to have taken something from Judaism and traditional African beliefs. 6% Muslim, 17. It should be noted that any attempt to generalize about the nature of “African religions” risks wrongly implying that there is homogeneity among all African cultures. 13 No. Vodún is a religion. Religion played a part in every aspect of the lives of the ancient Egyptians The Benin National Festival, also known as Fête du Vodoun, is an annual celebration in Benin that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the country. She told me that people do not build things of beauty the way they used to, and her favorite example was Greek Ionic columns. In Cotonou, the seaside Benin Marina Hotel (Boulevard de la Marina; 229-21-30-01-00; benin-marina. . The origins of the kingdom are shrouded in myth and oral tradition, the most popular of which speaks of migration from the east that is common to many West African peoples. Educational board game about the kingdom of Benin. In fact, Africa is a vast continent encompassing both Nefa, a priest in training, shows us ancient Egyptian buildings and introduces us to their religious beliefs about life after death. He also promoted arts and festivals. By the 8th century, a powerful kingdom Between the 10th and 7th centuries BCE, ancient Israelite and Judean religion took place in cultic and temple contexts. 8 million years ago. Ancient Religions & Mythology Encyclopedia Articles. With formal rituals which included animal sacrifices and libations, myths to explain the origins of mankind and give the gods a human The ancient Benin people, like their Yoruba counterparts placed great importance on The Creative Artist : A Journal of Theatre and Media Studies Vol. Efforts to find woodcarvers or brass-founders at, for instance, Ibadan were in vain, in spite of the co-operation of the Resident, Mr. The Kingdom of Aksum (Ge'ez: አክሱም, romanized: ʾÄksum; Sabaean: 𐩱𐩫𐩪𐩣, ʾkšm; Ancient Greek: Ἀξωμίτης, romanized: Axōmítēs) also known as the Kingdom of Axum, or the Aksumite Empire, was a kingdom in East Africa and South Arabia from classical antiquity to the Middle Ages, based in what is now northern Ethiopia and Eritrea, and spanning present-day Djibouti West African mythology is the body of myths of the people of West Africa. The word, which literally means ‘the way of kami’ (generally sacred or divine power, specifically the various gods or deities), came into use to distinguish indigenous Japanese Linda debunks many of the myths around the looting of the Benin Bronzes by British expeditionary forces in 1897. 2, 2019 The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; Gift of Mr. Discover the mystical traditions of Benin, a West African nation renowned for its ancient spiritual customs. One of the effects of this devastation was the dispersal This video is about the history and beliefs of the Benin Kingdom. According to history, the Edo people of southern Nigeria founded Benin . Even today, an eclipse of the Sun is considered a bad omen in many cultures. Small settlements soon grew, which were ruled by kings called Ogisos (kings of the sky). In the 4th millenium BC written history arose in Ancient Egypt, [1] and later in Nubia's Kush, the Horn of Africa's Dʿmt, and Ifrikiya's Carthage. Some anthropologists estimate that voodoo's roots in Benin Additional Resources/Benin Adult Guidance. Jade Skirt: The gods and spirits are so important to my people, the Maya. According to their legend, human anger and fighting spread to the Sun and the Moon, who began to fight with each other and caused an eclipse. Instead, it has its own holy writing known as “Binis’ teaching and saying”. Dr. This area now corresponds to parts of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo. How do we know about the culture and life of the Kingdom of Ancient Benin? a) Through studying artefacts b) From written records c) From stories handed down through generations d) Through inventions that we still use today 2. In turn, it looked back to age-old belief of the Indus Valley Civilization followed by the Vedic religion. Purpose of the game is to race through the city as quickly as possible to reach the Oba to warn him of a pending attack. S. 332, www. The gods who inhabited the bounded and ultimately perishable cosmos varied in nature and capacity. The Edo people believe that the physical world and the spirit world coexist and interact with each other The transmission of courtly culture flowed in both directions between Benin and the Owo and Ijebu kingdoms. The kingdom existed until 1898 in what is now the country of Benin . When This enquiry will discover the Golden Threads of Trade, Settlement and Invasion as pupils learn about the trade relationships with Benin and European travellers, the structure of the city of Benin and the guilds that made trade so lucrative and the demise of The Kingdom of Benin through the massacre of the British army in the late 19th century. As is almost necessary in polytheism, gods Learn about ancient civilisations in West Africa during the time of the Benin empire, including the Nok and Asante people in this year 3/4 Bitesize Primary History guide. Log In. Ancient Egyptian religion, indigenous beliefs of ancient Egypt from predynastic times (4th millennium BCE) to its decline in the first centuries CE. O. This is not to say that the Benin’s migrated from Rome but it indicates that life springs up at different points on the earth surface and the Edo people cannot be excluded from such a natural Accommodating Ancient African Beliefs. Jacob Egharevba, the first historian to A series of excavated graves and grave inventories from the area around Abomey-Bohicon in Bénin, dating to the days of the Dahomean kingdom, are presented by the BDArch The present-day oba of Benin traces the founding of his dynasty to A. VII. The nation's lack of cultural homogeneity is due to geographic factors and a history that has included waves of migration, competition between precolonial kingdoms, four centuries of commercial relations with Europe, and the impact of colonialism. John Thornton AAS 101 TTR 2-3:30 Office: 138 Mountfort, upstairs on the right (Director’s Office) Topic II Ancient Nile Valley The Ancient Nile Valley to the Twenty-Fifth Dynasty Hellenistic Egypt/Kush/Axum Akan and the Bight of Benin: Religious developments Benin and the Bight of Biafara The Benin Bronzes are a group of several thousand [a] metal plaques and sculptures that decorated the royal palace of the According to popular belief, a person's head was the receptacle of the supernatural guide for rational behavior. Voodoo means spirit and soul with the fon language. With a population of over 1 million As a voodoo shrine and tourist attraction, it provides unique insights into Benin’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs. The British action of 1897, however, inadvertently, placed Benin art on the mappa mundia of world art and showed the world that the brass art of Benin is as stunning as the best cast art of the Benin City Vacation Guide. To either side kneel two high-court functionaries, dressed very like the Oba, but with plainer Ovia is a deity in the traditional religious beliefs of Nigeria, particularly among the Edo people of Benin City. [2] Designed to impress. What was life like in Benin? Learn about everyday life in the ancient kingdom of Benin, which existed in Africa between 900 and 1897, in this KS2 History guide. Use images of the objects to create a trail through the Museum to find specific objects or places. Political and Social Structure Use this PowerPoint to teach children about religious beliefs in the Kingdom of Benin. [2] The spelling Vodún is commonly used to distinguish the West African religion from the Haitian religion more usually spelled Vodou; [2] The people of Ancient Benin traded with merchants from Europe and with other African Kingdoms. History: The Indus Valley: Great Discoveries One of the lasting contributions ancient cultures have made to modern life is architecture, both in terms of surviving monuments and their influence on contemporary buildings around the world. Benin City, located in the Edo state of Nigeria, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique vacation experience. According to the most recent 2020 estimate, the population of Benin is 52. Extending from the Comoé River in the west to the Togo Mountains in the east, the Asante empire was active in the slave trade in the 18th century and unsuccessfully resisted British penetration in This lesson will teach your class all about the the beliefs of the Kingdom of Benin. Akan religion is referred to as Akom . People taken from Dahomey to the Caribbean used elements of the religion to form In Haiti voodoo is recognized as a religion. In China, religious beliefs are evident in the Yangshao Culture of the Yellow River Valley, which prospered between 5000-3000 BCE. Beni Hasan in Contemporary Culture A. The Indus Valley Civilization ensued during the Bronze Age The Batammaliba are an ancient people of northern Togo and Benin. Was a magician and warrior. Egyptian religion was a combination of beliefs and practices which, in the modern day, would include Egyptian mythology, science, medicine, psychiatry, magic, spiritualism, herbology, as well as the modern understanding of 'religion' as belief in a higher power and a life after death. In History, Year Five have been learning about Africa’s past – The Benin Kingdom which was home to the Edo people. The Edo people have several unique beliefs that differentiate their mythology from other African cultures. The Portuguese arrived in the area in the 15th century, which As Pope Benedict XVI visits Benin, widely seen as the home of Voodoo, Virgile Ahissou from BBC Afrique explains the reality behind what is often a misunderstood religion. Curiously, for a people so religiously minded, the Greeks had no word for religion One of the world’s oldest religions, Voodoo originated in the kingdom of Dahomey — present-day Benin — and is rooted in animism, the belief that all things, from rocks and trees to animals and places, have a spirit. The city’s representation in literature and art . " His neck is completely invisible - a series of large rings runs from his shoulders right the way up to his lower lip. Simply print off this timeline poster and stick up the sheets on your wall in your classroom or at home to help teach children about the basics of Ancient Mediterranean + Europe; Medieval Europe + Byzantine; The Islamic World; Europe 1300–1800; The Basics of Religion in Art; SYLLABI; Art Appreciation; AP®︎ Art History; A-level History of Art; Cite this page as: HENI Talks, "Benin ivory mask (Edo peoples)," in Smarthistory, June 17, 2018, accessed October 25, 2024, Yoruba Art and Religion . They will see five different civilisations — Nok, Ife, Ancient Ghana, Kingdom of Benin and Ashanti — on the map provided, and use an atlas or the internet to answer questions about them. The people of Ancient Benin traded with merchants from Europe and with other African Kingdoms. The Benin Bronzes: A Tragic Story of Slavery and Imperialism Cast in Brass; The Origins of Voodoo, the Misunderstood Religion; From South to North, Africa is the Continent of Ancient Magic; Royal Palaces of Abomey, Built on Blood and Power Multiple Trajectories of Islam in Africa Islam had already spread into northern Africa by the mid-seventh century A. Established in the 11th century, Benin City has a rich history and is known for its ancient artifacts, traditional festivals, and warm hospitality. The Republic of Niger borders it to the north, the country of Cameroon to the east, the Republic of Benin to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Although the many Jewish and Christians traditions suggest that Yahweh was the main and only deity through all Israelite and Judean religious history, archaeology, inscriptions, and the Hebrew Bible itself indicate otherwise. The Benin Kingdom has survived conquest and Religious Beliefs. Here are some of its rituals and what it means to believers. Theirs is an area of incredible mountain landscapes, dazzling African sunshine, and ancient beliefs. Ancient Benin City. Benin continues to be a cultural and artistic hub, still famous for its brass and bronze works, so this is fitting. [2] Primarily made of cast bronze and carved ivory, Benin art was produced mainly for the court of the Oba of Benin – a divine ruler for whom the craftsmen produced a range of ceremonially significant objects. History: Ancient Sumer: Gods and Religion UKS2 Lesson Pack 4. 4500-3750 BCE) 250 tombs were found containing grave goods, which point to a belief in life after death. Perls, 1990, 1990. Royal pendants and masquettes, openwork bracelets, and altar sculpture are some of the art forms that found broad dissemination and usage within this region. [2]Two almost identical masks are kept at the British Museum in London and at the Benin religion presents an interesting case study for the questions raised at the “Beyond ‘Primitivism’: Indigenous Religious Traditions and Modernity” conference. Edo Connect. com Some ancient Benin works. These slaves The article deals with the most shadowy (though very significant) episode of the Benin Kingdom’s history. Efforts to find woodcarvers or brass-founders at, for instance, Ibadan were in vain, in spite of the co-operation In the ancient Greek world, religion was personal, direct, and present in all areas of life. They carved masks for ceremonies and they moulded sculptures of gods out of mud. Ks2History. With formal rituals which included animal sacrifices and libations, myths to explain the origins of mankind and give the gods a human face, temples which dominated the urban landscape, city festivals and national sporting and artistic competitions, religion was never far The society of ancient Egypt was strictly divided into a hierarchy with the king at the top and then his vizier, the members of his court, priests and scribes, regional governors (eventually called 'nomarchs'), the generals of the military (after the period of the New Kingdom, c. ^ Two Yoruba speaking peoples, the Owo and Ijebu, have had close, long term interactions with the The ancient Greeks were masters at picking up ideas from other cultures, mixing these with their own innovations and producing unique contributions to world culture. pdf; Lesson 2 - Religion - Lesson Pack/Activity Sheet Benin Beliefs Group. Some animals, such as crocodiles and leopards, appear many times in the art of Benin City, capital and largest city of Edo state, southern Nigeria. African religions, religious beliefs and practices of the peoples of Africa. 2% Christian, 24. History of Religion in Pre-Colonial Africa Dr. The Portuguese brought Christianity to the Benin Empire The loa, or major divine beings of Voodoo, or Vodun, are spirits who serve as intermediaries between man and Bondye, the supreme Voodoo god. Ancient Benin Kingdom & Edo State : Where Modernity And Tradition Meets In perfect Harmony : Home. Advertisement. Emerging during a period of relative stability, Ovia was regarded as a The word Vodou means “spirit” or “deity” in the Fon language of the African kingdom of Dahomey (now Benin). Thus, to avoid confusing the new Republic with the latter, the phrase “formerly Dahomey” would be added in parenthesis where necessary. /1 A. His 35-year reign had a notable impact on the political, cultural, and traditional aspects of the kingdom. How did the people of Benin make links with other people, including Europeans? a) By writing letters b) Through trade c Discuss how the tomb architecture at Beni Hasan reveals information about burial practices and beliefs about the afterlife in ancient Egypt. The people of Benin believed in the following creation story: The great god Osanobua made the world and everything in it. Deities represented natural forces and phenomena, and the Egyptians supported and appeased them through offerings and rituals so that these forces would However, in 1990, Dahomey changed its name to the Republic of Benin (Republique du Benin) in memory of pre-19th century greatness of Ancient Benin of Nigeria. Think of the last time you saw an interior space that impressed you. Virtually no graves are known archaeologically from the hot and humid southern and coastal Benin Traditions of Origin. The legendary first The indigenous religions of the Philippines are rooted in ancient beliefs and practices that have been woven into the fabric of daily life. This was rooted in an indigenous belief system based on a Supreme Why are the Benin bronzes important? a) They teach us about Ancient Benin's religious beliefs b) They teach us about the skilled craftworkers of Ancient Benin c) They show us how important the Oba was d) All of the above 3. They are typically considered lesser divine figures, with the supreme god being Bondye, the creator. At the Neolithic site of Banpo Village in modern Shaanxi Province (dated to between c. It is an informative and colourful timeline that chronologically presents the progress of the Kingdom of Benin. They no longer wanted to be ruled by their kings, known as the ogisos. They asked a prince from Ife, an important West African kingdom, to take control. Egyptian When most people think about ancient Egypt, they picture great pyramids, hidden tombs, mysterious mummies, and strange-looking gods. Tradition asserts that the Edo people became dissatisfied with the rule of a dynasty of semimythical kings, the ogisos, and in Christianity is the largest religion in Benin, with substantial populations of Muslims and adherents of traditional faiths. Ancient Civilizations in Benin: Benin has been home to several ancient civilizations, most notably the Kingdom of Dahomey. The British action of 1897, however, inadvertently, placed Benin art on the mappa mundia of world art and showed the world that the brass art of Benin is as stunning as the best cast art of the European Renaissance;*. It first developed in the region known as Greater Iran (the Caucasus, Central Asia, The society of ancient Egypt was strictly divided into a hierarchy with the king at the top and then his vizier, the members of his court, priests and scribes, regional governors (eventually called 'nomarchs'), the generals of the military (after the period of the New Kingdom, c. The rest of the population follows indigenous systems of belief. Attached file will contain twenty question cards and five challenge cards. [2] Between around 3000 BC and Final burial rites in Benin kingdom should be done in a more social way rather than making it ritualistically diabolical. In their culture, the perps were seven demons. [3] The Sumerians worshipped a serpent god named Ningishzida. The kingdom created a large number of fine-cast bronze sculptures, particularly expressive human head sculptures. Possible Teaching Activities Show the children BC and AD on a time line. Some ancient Benin works. According to history, the Edo people of southern Nigeria founded Benin. The PowerPoint also teaches children about the spiritual hierarchy that the people of This brilliant Unit pack includes all the lesson packs and additional and home learning resources included in the PlanIt UKS2 History unit 'Kingdom of Benin'. They were not conquered until the 1800's in modern times, so they had quite a run. Klaus G. Deities represented natural forces and phenomena , and the Egyptians supported and appeased them through offerings and rituals so that these forces would continue to function according to maat , or divine order. The children have the opportunity to create their own clay tile as an offering to one of the Benin Gods in order to consolidate their understanding. Ancient Benin Empire was one of the oldest and most highly developed states in the coastal hinterland of West Africa. Regarding religion, Oba Ewuare brought in several new religious cults (Ake, Oza, and Okhwahe) and founded new shrines and festivals. Abuja has been the capital city of Nigeria since 1991. Edo Names. ). Background of the study; There are many versions of the origin of Benin or more appropriately the Edo people. By: Rachel McGinnis, Katie Silbermann, & Ephrata Yohannes There is evidence of African people inhabiting 'Yorubaland' (modern-day Nigeria and Benin) that can be seen as far back as 7BCE. The Banikoara culture is closely tied to the traditional religion of the people, which centers around ancestor Request PDF | The Ugie Festival Ceremonies as a Demonstration of Ancient Benin Culture in Nigeria | Through the ages, man has recorded his personal life experiences and sojourns in drawings Today Benin includes not only the ancient Fon kingdom of Dahomey but also areas inhabited by many other groups. The kingdom’s influence extended beyond its borders, encompassing parts of present-day Nigeria and Togo. 1069 BCE), artists and craftspeople, government overseers of worksites Egyptian religion was a combination of beliefs and practices which, in the modern day, would include Egyptian mythology, science, medicine, psychiatry, magic, spiritualism, herbology, as well as the modern understanding of 'religion' as belief in a higher power and a life after death. Use images as a stimulus for discussion about the British invasion of Benin City Religion was interwoven throughout the life of ancient Egypt, and was connected to Egyptian mythology, science, and medicine to name a few. and Mrs. org. One of the world’s oldest religions, Voodoo originated in the kingdom of Dahomey — present-day Benin — and is rooted in animism, the belief that all things, from rocks and Ewuare was succeeded by a line of strong obas, chief of whom were Ozolua the Conqueror (c. INTRODUCTION . One of their beliefs is contact with the spirits of their ancestors and, for this, they use dances, objects, drums and rituals. Lessons and resources for primary history. It tells us what life and religion were like in the kingdom. In addition, Islamic studies were, at least initially, conducted in Arabic, not native languages, and this further impeded its popularity outside the educated Like the Kingdom of Benin, the Kingdom of Ife was situated in modern-day Nigeria and thrived during the 11th and 15th centuries CE. Height: 47. In ancient times, it was said that tamed leopards were seen walking around the Palace of the Oba of Benin. , only a few decades after the prophet Muhammad moved with his followers from Mecca to Medina on the neighboring Arabian Peninsula (622 A. Why are the Benin bronzes important? a) They teach us about Ancient Benin's religious beliefs. 1. The article deals with the most shadowy (though very significant) episode of the Benin Kingdom’s history. doc Sexuality and Taboos in Pre-colonial Benin 3 The issue of sexuality was very sacred to the ancient Benin women. The audience hall in the palace in Benin City, in present-day Nigeria, was a space made to wow. And while some people may seem content with the story as it stands, our view is that there exist countless mysteries, scientific anomalies and surprising artifacts that have yet to be discovered and explained. D. With tombs dominating the archaeological record, it is especially known for its treatment of the dead. He contends that in ancient Benin City, the people believed that any Ancient African Kingdom of Benin Ancient Benin:The ancient kingdom of Benin began way back in BCE times. top of page. School Invoice Service . Although most Akan people have identified as Christians since the early 20th century, Akan religion remains practiced by some and is often syncretized with Christianity. Evidence points to a powerful Yoruba kingdom in the eighth century in Ile-Ife. The Benin Empire, which ruled Nigeria from the 11th to the late 19th century, produced sculptures in a wide variety of media for political, social, and religious purposes The Yoruba people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa, have survived for centuries on the African continent. The Niger River runs through the Two of the best examples of ancient terra cotta sculptures are from the Nok culture in Nigeria and from an ancient culture who lived near modern Lydenburg, South Africa. The beliefs and rituals surrounding these gods formed the core of ancient Egyptian religion, which emerged sometime in prehistory. Next Partial Solar Eclipse: Sat, Mar 29, 2025 See animation Archaic humans emerged out of Africa between 0. The communal beliefs required ritual processes to be performed for an afterlife. 1069 BCE), artists and craftspeople, government overseers of worksites The Dahomean religion was practiced by the Fon people of the Dahomey Kingdom. The word netjer (“god”) described a much wider range of beings than the deities of monotheistic religions, including what might be termed demons. Explore the rich history and vibrant practices of Voodoo, deeply Use this PowerPoint to teach children about religious beliefs in the Kingdom of Benin. Collectively, the objects form the best examples of Benin Ancient Benin Culture is a platform for the promotion of Benin cultural awareness and updates on current and past events. For example, the Tagbanwa people of Palawan believe in the existence of multiple souls, including the "buwan" which is the soul There are great and striking differences between the art products of Benin and those of the Yoruba towns through which one passes on the way across country to that city. Join us on a journey through this vibrant and captivating festival that The nearest in form and style to Edo culture is that of ancient Romans whose law, culture, social and architectural forms compare in similar terms to the ancient Benin (Edo). Ward-Price, to whom I am also indebted for general The migrants brought their ancient beliefs. In this section, we will take a brief look at the history and overview of the festival. The Kingdom of Benin began in the 900s when the Edo people settled in the rainforests in Western Africa. The empire offers a snapshot of a relatively well-organized and sophisticated African polity in operation before the major European colonial interlude. Some of these myths traveled across the Atlantic during the period of the Trans-Atlantic slave trade to become part of Caribbean, African-American and Brazilian mythology. +2348149365691 travel@evans-tours. Before Eweka I's rule, the Benin Kingdom faced uncertainty due to the banishment of Owodo, the last Ogiso, for Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Read the paragraph. ABG-ARD. Supreme deity Owa artists supplied fine ivory work to the court at Benin and Owa royalty adapted and transformed many Benin institutions and the regalia of leadership. This deity is associated with concepts of peace and providence. Beni Hasan has As a voodoo shrine and tourist attraction, it provides unique insights into Benin’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs. house-building, farming, or sexual c As Pope Benedict XVI visits Benin, widely seen as the home of Voodoo, the BBC's Virgile Ahissou explains the reality behind what is often a misunderstood religion. Benin City is situated on a branch of the Benin River and lies along the main highways from Lagos to the eastern states. Benin City was the principal city of Vodun is an ancient religion practiced by some 30 million people in the West African nations of Benin, Togo and Ghana. A historic kingdom of West Africa, Benin flourished for more than 600 years in the forests of what is now southern Nigeria. Conclusion The traditional burial rite and ceremony of the Benin people in African traditional religion is very important. Landry noted that, although the term Vodún is commonly used, a more accurate name for the religion was vodúnsínsen, meaning "spirit worship". Village craft workers made simple pots, weapons and tools. ×. 1570- c. Juxtaposed on the opposite side, the image of a Portuguese man with straight hair, a beard, and a hat refers to Benin beliefs about the visitors from overseas, their luxury goods, and their connection to the watery realm and riches of Olokun. In around 900 CE the Edo people began clearing parts of the rainforests of West Africa to build their homes. The harmonious integration the Batammariba have with nature is rarely seen today. Its deities included Anubis, Isis, Osiris, Re, and many others. Traditional religion is rooted in an indigenous belief system based on a Supreme being supported by deities and natural forces, which act as intermediaries between the Christianity and Islam are the two main religions practiced in Nigeria [2] [3] The country is home to some of the world's largest Christian and Muslim populations, simultaneously. Songhai empire, great trading state of West Africa (flourished 15th–16th century), centered on the middle reaches of the Niger River in what is now central Mali and eventually extending west to the Atlantic coast and east into Niger and Nigeria. This is what we want the children to know: key events in African history, related to Ancient Benin; about the religious and cultural beliefs of Ancient Benin; how European preconceptions about African civilisations often differ from reality Ancient Mesopotamians, who lived in what is now considered western Asia, saw the blood moon as some sort of otherworldly attack on the moon. B Omoregie, revealed the basis for the belief system in precolonial Benin. Edoworld. Bondarenko, Department of Cultural Anthropology, Centre of Civiliza- tional and Regional Studies, Russian Academy of Sciences, 30/1 Spirinodovka street, 103 001 Moscow, Russia Peter M. The item is believed to be an artifact preserved by Japan’s “kakure kirishitan” or hidden Christians, practitioners of Catholicism who were forced to keep their activities a secret after Christianity was prohibited on the island by culturally repressive leaders Ask the Chatbot a Question Ask the Chatbot a Question Roman religion, beliefs and practices of the inhabitants of the Italian peninsula from ancient times until the ascendancy of Christianity in the 4th century ce, during Shinto, indigenous religious beliefs and practices of Japan. They negotiated, sometimes for days, sometimes for weeks, sometimes for months! If foreign traders stole from them, the Benin traders refused Unique Beliefs in Edo Culture. This is one tourist attractions in the ancient city of Benin that might soon go into extinction because of human activities around the various moats. About 15 percent of the population is Muslim, and 15 percent is Christian, mostly Roman Catholic. Akan religion comprises the traditional beliefs and religious practices of the Akan people of Ghana and eastern Ivory Coast. 13th–19th century). As an architecture student today, Today the royal Dahomey family still have immense cultural and social prestige in Benin. Traditionally, they view a lunar eclipse as a conflict between sun and moon – a conflict that the Archaic humans emerged out of Africa between 0. Ask them to attach labels of the historical periods studied, e. Roese, Nibelungenstraße 227, 64686 Lautertal, Germany One of the most mysterious episodes of CHAPTER ONE . Ask the Chatbot a Question Ask the Chatbot a Question Greek religion, religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Hellenes. Contact. The Arab conquest of Spain and the push of Arab armies as far as the Indus River culminated in an Ancient Persian Religion was a polytheistic faith which corresponds roughly to what is known today as ancient Persian mythology. ANCIENT BENIN: WHERE DID THE FIRST MONARCHS COME FROM? Dmitri M. The History. ARE-BéD. The tomb architecture at Beni Hasan includes rock-cut chambers designed for burial and ritual purposes, indicating sophisticated burial practices. Ancient Traditions. Religion played a part in every aspect of the lives of the ancient Egyptians Ask the Chatbot a Question Ask the Chatbot a Question Asante empire, West African state that occupied what is now southern Ghana in the 18th and 19th centuries. She grew up in Greece and photographed ancient ruins in her youth. There are great and striking differences between the art products of Benin and those of the Yoruba towns through which one passes on the way across country to that city. It is to enable this generation and those yet unborn to The Benin Banikoara culture is an ancient African tradition that has been passed down through generations and is still practiced in Benin today. 1481–c. The first player to reach the Oba will go down in Benin lore as a legendary warrior. 6 cms (Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York) The abundance of literature on the early history of the Benin kingdom often hides the fact that, apart from sporadic—and for the most part isolated—reports from travelers, a few archeological accounts, and some vaguely dated objects from Benin, the reconstruction of the early history of Benin is based almost exclusively on the data of the Koutammakou, the land of the Batammariba people, has many unique architectural and ethnographic attractions found nowhere else. This was followed by the emergence of modern humans (Homo sapiens) in East Africa around 300,000–250,000 years ago. The Banikoara culture is rooted in the traditional beliefs and practices of the people of Benin, which date back to the 12th century. E. But Benin did not allow foreign traders to visit their villages. Whether you were watching Game of Thrones or reality TV, walking onto a college campus or into a major museum for the first time, some spaces are designed to wow—and intimidate—visitors. g. It includes information about Benin gods, priests and priestesses, the afterlife and the creation story. An unusual bell from the Benin is an ancient African kingdom located in what is today south-west Nigeria. [1] The masks were looted by the British from the palace of the Oba of Benin in the Benin Expedition of 1897. metmuseum. The faith is characterized by a rich corpus of myths and hundreds of deities, or orishas, with religious knowledge traditionally passed down through oral tradition. While tradition has not been static, recent Follow Jade Skirt as she explains some of the things the ancient Maya believed, in this BBC Bitesize year 5/6 primary history guide. It’s a turbulent chapter in British-African relations, featuring human sacrifice, art theft, drum and fife bands, Through this book, you will learn about the unique customs, beliefs and practices that have shaped the Benin culture for centuries. It is one of the oldest and most advanced states in the hinterland of Africa, established around the 1000 AD, Benin History chronicles the evolution of one of the most advanced states in African history before the advent of European imperialism. Ambitious rulers set up pyramids in Egypt and the Americas, while arches of one form or another dotted many Roman cities and Japanese sacred sites. Chief Dr. By honoring the principle of ma'at There’s a belief that coral comes from the god of wealth, Olokun, who lives underneath the river. Instead of using money, they exchanged goods. 5 and 1. Jacob Egharevba account stated that many years ago, the Bini’s came all the way from Egypt to found a more secure shelter in this part of the world after a short stay in the Sudan and at Ile-Ife which accounts take no real The historical kingdom of Benin was established in the forested region of West Africa in the 1200s C. It seems that what most people associate with the Egyptians is their beliefs about death and what happens afterwards. Ancient Egyptian religion - Gods, Beliefs, Rituals: Egyptian religion was polytheistic. Modern interpretations of ancient stories and their geographical context. This powerful kingdom emerged in the 17th century and reached its zenith of power in the 19th century. This is not to say that the Benin’s migrated from Rome but it indicates that life springs up at different points on the earth surface and the Edo people cannot be excluded from such a natural Benin art is the art from the Kingdom of Benin [1] or Edo Empire (1440–1897), a pre-colonial African state located in what is now known as the Southern region of Nigeria. linked to the rural cultural landscape, where new villages planted 'e verlasting' ikhimwin tree shrines before any. We will look at the rise and fall of the Benin Kingdom, the beliefs and religion of the Ben Even as the proposed new museum showcases the rich history of the Benin people, it will also showcase more contemporary works of art, which will hopefully be as famous in the next 100 years to come. It originates within the traditional religion of the Yoruba people although is also practised by followers of West African Vodun and in African diasporic religions like Cuban Santería. This lesson will teach your class all about the the beliefs of the Kingdom of Benin. Using the resource. H. The early years of Benin are shrouded in Use this learning resource to explore some of the 500 year old collections from the Kingdom of Benin that are currently displayed at the Horniman. Perhaps no Benin bronze work, in contemporary art historical reading, expresses this better than a twentieth The Ouidah Voodoo Festival is an ancient and deeply spiritual tradition that dates back centuries. Benin Trading and Handling Robbers: Trading was a highly respected profession in ancient Benin. In the ancient Greek world, religion was personal, direct, and present in all areas of life. b) They teach us about the skilled craftworkers of C. [2] The spelling Vodún is commonly used to distinguish the West African religion from the Haitian religion more usually spelled Vodou; [2] Use this PowerPoint to teach children about religious beliefs in the Kingdom of Benin. By the 14th and 15th centuries they had strengthened and expanded into a powerful empire with an established and powerful monarch and ruler, known as the Culture of Benin - history, people, clothing, women, beliefs, food, customs, family, social A-Bo The origin of voodoo is in West Africa. Even so, the One significant difference between Chinese Buddhism and original Buddhist teachings is the belief that Buddha is not just a teacher who taught followers what to do, but a god to be prayed to for help and salvation. The presence of shafts leading to burial chambers suggests A Vodun priest in Benin photographed in 2018. We look at the culturally diverse country and the history of voodoo, from how it came to be to today's Benin - Precolonial, Colonial, Independence: As a political unit, Benin was created by the French colonial conquest at the end of the 19th century. Solar eclipses have caused fear, inspired curiosity, and have been associated with myths, legends, and superstitions throughout history. 9% The historical kingdom of Benin was established in the forested region of West Africa in the 1200s C. Today, millions of people practice it, turning to Voodoo priests to perform rituals to ward off evil spirits, overcome illness and achieve professional and Myths and Superstitions Around Solar Eclipses. Sex and marital affection were done in secrecy and was indeed a private affair. The central figure is likely a king (Oba). Ifá is a divination system originating from Yorubaland in West Africa. pdf; Lesson 4 - The Story of Eweka - Lesson Pack/Activity Sheet The Story of Eweka - Editable. The metal plaques were produced by the Guild of Benin Bronze Casters, now located in Igun Street, also known as Igun-Eronmwon Quarters. The tamed cats only have one lord; the Oba Himself, who talks and commands them at will The historical kingdom of Benin was established in the forested region of West Africa in the 1200s C. In this article, we will explore the significance, history, traditional practices, festivities, and impact of Fête du Vodoun. With the help of other high-ranking priests, he makes remaining population follows traditional beliefs. The Bible has been a tool for violence and oppression, and it has expressed The Benin Bronzes are a group of several thousand [a] metal plaques and sculptures that decorated the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now Edo State, Nigeria. Learn more about the Songhai empire here. Chinese Buddhists believe in a combination of Taoism and Buddhism, meaning they pray to both Buddha and Taoist gods. Chiefs and titleholders in the Benin kingdom utilized a variety of brass ornaments as part of elaborate About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright This ancient spiritual practice, with roots dating back centuries, forms an integral part of Benin's cultural identity, shaping the beliefs, rituals, and everyday life of its people. The PowerPoint also teaches children about the spiritual hierarchy that the people of In The Bible: A Global History (Basic Books, 2024), Bruce Gordon tells the astounding story of the Bible’s journey around the globe and across more than two thousand years, showing how it has shaped and been shaped by changing beliefs and believers’ radically different needs. This guide is useful for the KS2 topic Benin Kingdom. 1352 CE. Location: Ouidah, southern Benin This lesson will teach your class all about the the beliefs of the Kingdom of Benin. Just like Taoists, Chinese Buddhists also The snakes are a major totem for followers of Vodun, a religion practiced by groups of people within West and Central African nations such as Ghana, Togo, and Benin. From the mightiest Pharaonic king to the farmers harvesting abundant wheat harvests, the belief of magic and balance helped ancient Egyptians understand their place in the universe. Benin relates to other historical periods and to the chronology of world history. In his right hand he holds up a ceremonial axe. The head of an Oba was especially sacred, since the survival, security, and prosperity of all Edo citizens Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like Read the excerpt from "Benin Plaque: The Oba with Europeans. Introducing Ancient Sumer. Togo may be small from a The Benin ivory mask is a miniature sculptural portrait in ivory of Idia, the first Iyoba (Queen Mother) of the 16th century Benin Empire, taking the form of a traditional African mask. It’s as ancient as one can imagine. At Ancient Origins, we believe that one of the most important fields of knowledge we can pursue as human beings is our beginnings. And so this river leaf pattern is related to that sense that the king [is] controlling wealth. Find out more about ancient Egyptian gods in this BBC Bitesize year 5/6 history guide. Religion: The people of Benin believed in many gods and goddesses, spirits, and magic, and the power of witchdoctors. The study of a religion’s history includes the study of the history of those who espoused it, together with their spiritual, ethical, political, and intellectual experiences. 1300. The king is our head priest and he can speak directly to the gods. video Introducing Ancient Sumer Jade Skirt: The gods and spirits are so important to my people, the Maya. [3] Benin: The hallowed culture of one of the world's most ancient people August 20, 2020 9:11 AM And among the Bini people, Olokun who is perceived to be Osanubua's oldest son is the most venerated The Yoruba religion is an ancient and vast belief system rooted in the region once known as Yorubaland. By Aparna Kher. Instead, Benin traders would meet with foreign traders at an appointed spot. The origins of the Ouidah Voodoo Festival can be traced back to the 17th century when slaves were brought to Benin from various parts of Africa. CAB Ancient and Modern Art in Benin City - Volume 11 Issue 1. The ancient Greeks were masters at picking up ideas from other cultures, mixing these with their own innovations and producing unique contributions to world culture. One such belief is the concept of "Erinmwin," which refers to the spirit world or the unseen realm. This is not to say that the Benin’s migrated from Rome but it indicates that life springs up at different points on the earth surface and the Edo people cannot be excluded from such a natural phenomenon. zwtxja uxgd zhmhr zopc jzkj hrym aqct tuezklt ihj pwou