In a surprising blend of tradition and modernity, a viral video has captured the attention of social media users across Nigeria.
Released on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, the footage showcases an unusual scene where a Muslim woman in purdah, known as an eleha, seeking the wisdom of a traditionalist to locate her stolen money.
The eleha, whose identity remains undisclosed, reported that over one hundred thousand naira she had carefully hidden in a sack within her home had mysteriously disappeared.
Desperate to uncover the thief, she turned to a custodian of Ọ̀sanyìn, the Yoruba deity of divination.
Watch the full video here.
In an emotional recounting, the eleha explained, “I collected the sum of N90,000 from a thrift collector and added the little change I had. I thought hiding it in a sack would be foolproof.” She explained that no one was present when she concealed the money.
Accompanied by her three children and two others, the eleha sought answers from the traditionalist.
After a ceremonial consultation with Ọ̀sanyìn, the custodian provided a surprising revelation: the thief was not among them.
“Baba [Ọ̀sanyìn] said the person who stole the money is not among you here, that you were careless,” the custodian declared.
Ọ̀sanyìn
Ọ̀sanyìn is a deity in the Yoruba religion, primarily associated with herbal medicine and the knowledge of plants. This deity is revered as the master of herbs, possessing profound wisdom on their healing properties and the secrets of nature.
In Yoruba cosmology, Osanyin’s expertise is crucial for the practice of traditional medicine, and he is often invoked by healers and herbalists seeking guidance and effectiveness in their treatments. His knowledge is considered both a blessing and a responsibility, as it involves understanding the balance and harmony within nature.
Osanyin is also associated with the sacred grove, where he is believed to reside. This connection emphasizes the importance of preserving natural environments and respecting the earth’s resources. Rituals dedicated to Osanyin often involve offerings of herbs and plants, reflecting his integral role in the life cycles of growth and healing.
