Understanding the Meaning of “Okwu na Ụka” in Igbo Language

The Igbo phrase “okwu na ụka” is a common expression that combines two words:

  1. “Okwu” – meaning “word,” “matter,” or “issue.”
  2. “Ụka” – which traditionally means “conversation,” “argument,” or “discussion.” Modern usage can also mean “church” or “Christianity.”

Together, “okwu na ụka” can be translated as “matters and arguments” or “issues and conversations.” It was used for situations involving disputes, debates, or discussions.

 

Historical Evolution of “Ụka”

The meaning of “ụka” evolved particularly with the arrival of Christianity in Igboland in the mid-19th century. When Christian missionaries, like Rev. Samuel Ajayi Crowther and John Taylor, introduced Christianity to Igboland (starting in Onitsha in 1857), the word “ụka” began to be associated with church activities because it was seen as a place where people gather for discussions on the Christian God. Over time, it became the Igbo word for “church,” “Christianity,” or the Christian Sunday in Igbo language.

Historically, “ụka” had broader meanings, such as:

  • “Conversation” or “dialogue” (as used in phrases like ịkparịta ụka, meaning “to converse”).
  • “Argument” or “dispute” (as in ọkpụkpọ okwu na ụka, meaning “to argue or debate”).

With the introduction of Christianity, the word “ụka” was adapted to describe the new faith and its practices. For example:

  • Ụlọ Ụka – “Church building” (literally “House of Ụka”).
  • Mbọsị Ụka – “Sunday” (the main day for Christian worship).
An Igbo public space for learning and recreation, likely a school, captured by Gustaf Bolinder in 1930–31.
Gustaf Bolinder captured an Igbo public space for learning and recreation, likely a school, in 1930–31.

Lingering Debate on “Ụka”

Some scholars suggest that the adoption of “ụka” for Christianity may stem from early missionary efforts to “reason” or “dialogue” with Igbo people during evangelism. Others argue that the word might have referred to the overzealous nature of early converts, often seen as troublesome (hence, “ndị okwu na ụka” – “those who argue”).

Interestingly, in some Igbo dialects, such as those of the Izii people in Ebonyi State, “ụka” means “lies” or “untruths.” This diversity in meaning highlights the complexity of tracing the exact origin of the word’s modern usage.

In conclusion, the phrase “okwu na ụka” reflects the duality of Igbo expressions—rooted in tradition but influenced by external changes, such as the advent of Christianity. Whether used to describe arguments or issues, its meaning connects the old and the new in Igbo culture.

References

  • Achebe, C. (1958). Things Fall Apart. Heinemann.
  • Ekechi, F. K. (1972). Missionary Enterprise and Rivalry in Igboland 1857-1914. Frank Cass.
  • Ifemesia, C. (1959). British Enterprise on the Niger 1830–1869 (PhD Dissertation). University of London.
  • Igbo History and Culture TV (2022). Origins of the Word “Ụka” in Igbo Christianity.

1 thought on “Understanding the Meaning of “Okwu na Ụka” in Igbo Language”

  1. Enjoyable read.

    In addition, ‘Okwu’ stems from kwu (‘speak’), while ‘Ụkà’ comes from kà (‘tell’/’say’/’relate’/’narrate’)—both verbs. Daalụ.

    Reply

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