Ekoi mythology is similar to that of the Efik.[citation needed]
Deities edit
Traditional Ekoi deities include:
- Obassi Osaw, the sky god[citation needed]
- Obassi Nsi (also called Eka Obasi or Isong), a goddess of fertility[1] and earth deity
Ancestors and natural forces are also emphasized in Ekoi worship. Various Ekoi cults are devoted to the welfare of common activities, such as farming. [citation needed]
Practices edit
Before the establishment of British colonial administration, the egbo was a prominent Ekoi secret society that had strong social regulatory functions as well as influence in religious matters. Members of the egbo used a form of ideographic writing called nsibidi, variations of which were formerly found among other ethnic groups in southeastern Nigeria.
The Ekoi practice traditional medicine and have treated such diseases as smallpox with local medicinal plants. In addition to displaying an extensive knowledge of and aesthetic appreciation for flowers, the Ekoi create mural paintings on sanctuaries, make pottery, and carve figures in solid basaltic blocks. They are also known for their large, skin-covered masks.
References edit
- ^ Coulter, Charles Russell; Turner, Patricia (4 July 2013). Encyclopedia of Ancient Deities. Routledge. p. 243. ISBN 978-1-135-96397-2.