3.3 Religious and cultural developments of Benin Flashcards
What was the significance of myth in the authority of rulers in Benin?
Possession of the myth describing a people and its royal dynasty’s origins is a very important attribute of rulers’ authority.
A ruler’s ‘alienness’ (ethnic as well as geographical) is a significant part of this attribute.
What is the role of the oba in Benin society?
The oba was seen as having divine power and was at the heart of Edo and the kingdom.
All inhabitants of Benin were retainers of the oba, living under his protection.
What was the purpose of the large cavity dug for a deceased oba?
To create a royal mausoleum for the deceased oba and his loyal followers, ensuring they kept him company in the afterlife.
This reflects the ritual importance of the oba.
True or False: Only the oba had the power of life and death in Benin.
True.
What were the main types of ceremonies designed to reinforce the oba’s power?
Ceremonies included:
* Ugie Erha Oba
* Igue festival
* New Yam festival
These ceremonies depicted various religious and cultural elements.
Who was Ewuare and what was his contribution to Benin’s cultural practices?
Ewuare was responsible for establishing numerous religious and cultural rituals, including the installation of the shrine of his royal ancestors.
He made powerful charms for protection and had them buried at each gate into Edo.
Fill in the blank: The sacred brass vessels used in rituals were called _______.
iru.
What was the significance of the Odiunwere and Onogie in village governance?
The Odiunwere governed locally with a council of elders, while the Onogie shared authority, but executive power lay with the Odiunwere.
This structure ensured effective local administration and tribute collection.
What was the role of tribute in the power dynamics of the oba?
Tribute included slaves and agricultural produce, reinforcing the oba’s power and wealth.
It was essential for maintaining the relationship between Edo and the provinces.
Describe the method used to create Benin Bronzes.
The lost-wax method involved:
* Making a clay model
* Applying beeswax
* Covering with clay to create a mould
* Heating to melt wax
* Pouring molten bronze into the mould
This technique allowed for intricate designs in bronze.
What was the impact of the expansion of the Benin kingdom on royal tensions?
Expansion reduced tensions by appointing quarrelsome sons as governors of distant provinces.
This also provided sources of manpower and wealth for the oba.
True or False: Human sacrifices were introduced in Benin solely due to European demands.
False.
What was the purpose of the Ague-Oghene festival?
To purify participants and strengthen their spirituality through self-denial and abstinence.
It involved rituals centered around yams and appeasing Edo ancestors.
What does the proverb ‘The ceremony the Oba opens finds Chiefs Osa and Osuan there’ signify?
It signifies the importance of Chief Priests Osa and Osuan in royal ceremonies and functions.
Fill in the blank: The oba’s majesty was showcased during annual ceremonies, where he rode out on a horse adorned with _______.
red scarlet and corals.
What process is used to create bronze sculptures using wax?
A thin layer of beeswax is etched with details, covered with clay, heated to melt the wax, and then molten bronze is poured in.
Who was a major patron of the arts in Benin?
Ewuare supported the craft guilds of ivory and wood carvers.
What is one of the best-known pieces of metal art commissioned by Esigie?
The famous Queen Mother Idia busts.
What did Professor Luschan claim about the Benin bronzes?
He stated they are equal to the very finest examples of European casting technique.
What does the Ivory mask symbolize in relation to Benin’s cultural heritage?
It served as the logo of the 2nd World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC) in 1977.
What did British troops find upon taking possession of the Benin capital in 1897?
Exquisite ancient bronze carvings adorning the royal palace.
What function did the Benin bronzes serve in the kingdom?
They commemorated key events and served as official histories.
True or False: The Benin bronzes reflect early Portuguese influence.
False.
What elements are often depicted in the Benin bronzes?
- Leopards’ teeth necklaces
- Kings mounted on horseback
- Royal slaves
What was a significant feature of the power of Obas in Benin?
Their capacity to innovate representations of history and the world.
What role did bronze casters play in the military function of Benin?
They drew on Portuguese designs and attempted to reproduce cannons.
What did the swords of Benin warriors resemble?
Leaves.
What was the Olokun deity associated with in Benin society?
- Wealth
- Female fertility
- Childbirth
How did Esigie’s willingness to adopt Christianity impact his power?
It was linked to acquiring firearms from Portugal for military campaigns.
What was the outcome of the conflict between the new and original uzama in Benin?
Esigie’s army defeated the original uzama nobles.
What did Esigie do to promote Christianity in Benin?
- Built a cathedral
- Introduced Christian rituals in the palace
- Trained his son as a Catholic priest
Fill in the blank: Christianity remained a _______ religion in Benin.
minority
What was Olokun’s role in the spiritual realm?
Guided the dead in and out of the spiritual world.
How did the monarchy link itself to the Olokun deity?
Oba Ohuen was strategically positioned as a partial reincarnation of Olokun.
What was one of Olokun’s titles that emphasized his power?
Oba n’amen (‘king of the water’)
What role did the oba have regarding chieftaincy titles in Benin?
All chieftaincy titles emanated from the monarchy.
True or False: The oba’s power was solely based on military strength.
False.
What was a significant aspect of the oba’s relationship with the Olokun cult?
The oba’s palace merged with the Olokun cult, becoming the state religion.
What was the impact of the original uzama’s mockery of the new uzama?
It escalated into war between the two groups.
What was the outcome of the Igala invasion attempt against Benin?
Esigie’s forces defeated the invading army.
What did Olokun’s wealth symbolize in Benin society?
The oba’s wealth from market commerce and daily presents.
How did Olokun’s ritual superiority manifest in the palace?
The oba had to acknowledge Olokun’s elevated status with his sword.
