Historical Studies ⁠Religion and Spirituality

Carabalí Isuama: Preserving Igbo Heritage in Afro-Cuban Culture

The Carabalí Isuama is a notable Afro-Cuban cabildo (mutual aid society) with deep roots in the African diaspora, specifically among Afro-Cuban communities. Originating from the Isuama region in south-central Igboland, Nigeria, the Carabalí Isuama people were among those forcibly taken to Cuba during the transatlantic slave trade. In Cuba, enslaved Africans established cabildos, social and…

ByChuka OdikeJanuary 22, 20250Comments

Cultural Identity of Isuochi: Origins, Practices, Attractions, and Úrì Body Art

A man from Isuochi. Photographed by G. I. Jones, 1930s. Isuochi, located in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, Nigeria, is a significant community within the Igbo ethnic group. It is made up of several villages and towns. Towns in Isuochi include: Umuaku, Umuokpo, Umunnato, Umuohia, Amata, Oboro, Eziama, and Umuagba. Known for its rich cultural heritage,…

ByChuka OdikeDecember 29, 20240Comments

Historical Studies

Debunking the Myth: Rev. Ajayi Crowther Did Not Translate the Igbo Bible

The Igbo Bible has a long and rich history, with many Igbo people contributing to its translation. However, there is a common myth that Ajayi Crowther, a Yoruba man, was the only person who translated it. This is not true because it ignores the hard work of others, especially Igbo ex-slaves like Rev. John Christopher…

ByIdenze EzemeDecember 3, 20240Comments

Ethnohistory Historical Studies

The Story of the First Igbo Bible: The Untold Legacy of Rev. J.C. Taylor and Simon Jonas, Igbo Ex-Slaves and Their Contribution

The translation of the Bible into the Igbo language is a significant milestone in the history of African linguistics and missionary work. While Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther is often associated with early Igbo Bible translations, historical interrogations by Historians and Scholars highlights the main contributions of two free Igbo ex-slaves, Simon Jonas and Rev. J.…

ByChuka OdikeDecember 3, 20240Comments

Anthropology and Ethnography Cultural Heritage

Alusi in Igboland

Alusi in Orsu, West Isuama Igbo. G. I. Jones, 1930s. In Igbo cosmology, Alusi (also known as Arusi or Chukwu’s servants) are deities or spirits that serve as link between the Supreme Being (Chukwu or Chi Ukwu) and humans. They represent various aspects of the natural world, morality, and community governance. The reverence of Alusi is…

ByChuka OdikeNovember 22, 20240Comments

Tag: Isuama

Carabalí Isuama: Preserving Igbo Heritage in Afro-Cuban Culture

Cultural Identity of Isuochi: Origins, Practices, Attractions, and Úrì Body Art

Debunking the Myth: Rev. Ajayi Crowther Did Not Translate the Igbo Bible

The Story of the First Igbo Bible: The Untold Legacy of Rev. J.C. Taylor and Simon Jonas, Igbo Ex-Slaves and Their Contribution

Alusi in Igboland

Best Choice for Creatives