88 Basic Odinani Questions
This post is set to “Public View,” so anyone with a link can view it. Feel free to share it with others.
These questions are designed to help you assess your grasp of foundational concepts in Odinani. If you can confidently answer each one without referencing any material, it’s a strong sign that you have a solid basic understanding of foundational Odinani concepts.
How to Complete the Self-Evaluation: Set aside quiet time to reflect on each question. Respond by writing or speaking, either on your own or with a partner. Afterwards, compare your answers with trusted resources on the topic to gauge your understanding. OMS members are also welcome to send written or audio responses to Oma for review. All the best!
Questions
How do you understand the concept of “Chi”?
Identify and explain up to four major dimensions or aspects of one’s Chi.
What is “Chi Uwa” or “Onye Uwa,” and what role does this force play in a person’s life?
In what ways can one nourish or direct energy to their Chi?
What are the four Igbo market days, and what roles do they play in Igbo cosmology?
Which natural elements are associated with each market day?
How would you describe “Ezumezu Mmuo” (spiritual guides), and what role do they play within the framework of Odinani?
What role do Animanu Mmuo (spirit animals) play in Odinani?
Which animal(s) have you recognized as your spiritual guides on your journey, and why?
Are you familiar with any sacred trees in Igbo land? What purpose do they serve?
What is Igo Mmuo?
What role does Igo Mmuo play in the practice of Odinani?
How does sound influence or support the process of Igo Mmuo in Odinani?
List four major items that can be used during Igo Mmuo.
Why is it important to perform Igo Mmuo barefoot?
In which direction do Igbos traditionally face when praying, and what is the significance?
Why would an Odinani practitioner need an altar?
What is Nzu, and what are its traditional uses?
What is Oji (kolanut), and what role does it play in Igbo spirituality?
What is the difference between Oji Igbo (reddish kolanut) and Oji Ugo (golden kolanut)?
Name up to seven spirit guides in Odinani and briefly describe their roles.
Who is Nne Agwu, and how would you describe this spiritual force?
What is Ara Agwu, and what does it signify in a person’s spiritual journey?
Now that you know about Agwu and Ara Agwu, what is the purpose of the practice of Ilu Agwu in Odinani?
Is it possible to reject one’s spiritual calling in Odinani? If so, when and how can this be done?
What do you understand by the concept of “Ikenga”?
Who is a Dibia, and how would you describe the role they play within Odinani?
Can you name and describe different types of Dibias in your own words?
What are some red flags or warning signs that may indicate a Dibia is not right for you to work with?
What do you understand by the terms “Ogbanje” and “Ndi Ogbanje”?
What is “Iyi Uwa,” and what significance does it hold?
Who are the “Ndi Ichie,” and what role do they play in Igbo cosmology?
How does one become an Ichie in traditional Igbo context?
Where do Igbos believe the soul goes after death?
What spiritual role does the sun, “Anyanwu,” play in Igbo traditions?
Share a few spiritual hygiene rituals commonly practiced in Odinani.
What is Afa divination, and what is its purpose in spiritual practice?
How should one properly prepare for an Afa session?
True or False: Ala is the most revered deity in Igbo spirituality. Explain your answer.
Who or what is Ogwugwu, and what aspects of life does this energy govern?
What is “Akwali Omumu,” and how is it connected to Ala?
Who is “Onwa” or “Oma,” and what role does she play in Odinani?
What do the terms “Ofo na Ogu” mean, and how would you describe each separately?
Who is Ekwensu, and what do you understand about their role or symbolism?
What does “Mmiri” represent in Odinani, and who are “Ndi Mmiri”?
What are cowries used for in Odinani, and what is their origin and significance?
What is “Ichu Aja,” and what are its primary uses?
What is a “Di Mmuo” and what is a “Di Uwa”? What is the main difference between them?
What is “Aru” or “Alu,” and how does it manifest in practice?
What is “Ikpu Aru” (abomination cleansing), and when is it necessary?
What is an “Alusi,” and can you name the one associated with your hometown or lineage?
What are some spiritual uses of “Ose Oji” (alligator pepper)?
What is the correct way to open a fresh pod of Ose Oji, and why is this method used?
Describe how Ose Oji can be used for purification or affirmations.
What is “Aja Ani,” and how does it relate to your spiritual journey?
Who or what are “Akaliogheli,” and how do they come into being?
Mention three or four Igbo proverbs and what they mean to you.
Share one or two Igbo myths or folktales you know and the lessons they carry.
Mention up to two Igbo spiritual superstitions and what they suggest.
What are the four Igbo world ages, and what is your understanding or opinion about them?
As an Odinani practitioner, what rituals or practices help you connect with your Chi?
What is “Arobinagu,” and what do you know about its spiritual significance?
Who is “Akpu Okalete,” and what role does this force play in Odinani?
What is your understanding of “Ogbunabali” in Odinani?
Who are the Umu Ada, and what spiritual and cultural roles do they play in Igbo society?
Why do Igbos say “Isee” or invoke “Ofo” after prayers or invocations, and what do these terms represent symbolically and spiritually?
Who is an “Ofeke,” and what does this term signify?
What is “Uchu,” and how does it show up in practice?
What’s the difference between “Izu Uka” and “Izu Igbo”?
How many moons are there in the Igbo lunar calendar, and why?
What is the spiritual significance of a new moon, and what rituals align with it?
What is the significance of a full moon, and what practices are associated with it?
What are some traditional spiritual uses of palm oil in Odinani?
What can “Akilu” (bitter kola) be used for in Igbo spirituality?
What is “Edo” used for in Odinani, and what is its spiritual role?
What are the uses of eggs in Igbo spiritual rituals?
What is the spiritual function of the bell in Odinani practices?
Define “Nso” and its implications.
What is “Nso Chi,” and have you identified any for yourself on your journey?
What are some “Nso” (sacred codes or restrictions) that every Dibia should follow?
What is “Omumu,” and how can you cultivate this energy daily?
What is “Isalaka,” and why is it significant in Igbo rites?
Explain the concept of “Akaraka” (destiny) and how to align with it in life.
Carry out a mock ritual of “Igo Mmuo,” incorporating as many authentic Igbo terms and items as possible (practical exercise).
What meditation techniques are practiced or inspired by Odinani?
What is the Age of Aquarius (Age of Ekwensu) in the context of Odinani, and what might this age represent for the world at large?
As a modern Odinani practitioner, what ways do you believe Odinani can thrive in the 21st century? Share your response in the comment section.
What concept in Odinani currently holds the most meaning for you? Share your reflection in the comment section
A multiple-choice quiz format for these questions will be made available soon.
