Even though African countries have adopted Christianity, Islam and Judaism, one thing they kept one thing central their traditional religion. Traditional religion was oral rather than scriptural. They believe in “supreme creator, belief in spirits, veneration of the dead, use of magic and traditional medicine. The role of humanity is generally seen as one of harmonizing nature with the supernatural”. Their religious practice was generally ceremonial and community driven. There was music, rhythmic dance and singing. In Gabon and Cameroon, they practiced in Okuyi. Okuyi originated from Bantu ethnic group. When infant turn four months of age they are considered adolescent, there’s a huge ritual. Ceremonies “drumming or instrumental rhythms played by respected musicians (each of which is unique to a given deity or ancestor), participants embody a deity or ancestor, energy or state of mind by performing distinct ritual movements or dances which further enhance their elevated consciousness”. Spirits played a huge role in traditional religion, the ancestral connection was important. Environmental phenomena were usually intertwined with religious belief. There’s a story for each phenomena and god that causes it. Masks were important to carry out some rituals and practices. The spirts and deities were honored with sacrifices.
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