ỌGBANJE AND REINCARNATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF IGBO TRADITIONAL BELIEFS AND HINDUISM

Abstract

This study conducts a comparative analysis of the Igbo traditional belief in Ọgbanje and the Hindu concept of reincarnation, exploring their similarities, differences, and cultural significance within the contexts of Igbo and Hindu traditions. It highlights the rich spiritual and philosophical dimensions of both belief systems, acknowledging the deep cultural roots of Ọgbanje within Igbo cosmology and the pervasive influence of reincarnation in Hinduism. The study addresses the current lack of comparative research between these two belief systems, despite their shared focus on the cyclical nature of life and death. It seeks to fill this gap by investigating the underlying conceptual frameworks and the roles of spiritual entities in both traditions. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study utilizes a literature-based approach. Data collection includes an analysis of Igbo oral traditions, myths, and religious texts, alongside Hindu scriptures such as the Bhagavad Gita and Upanishads. The findings reveal striking similarities in the understanding of spiritual rebirth, karmic influences, and the involvement of spirits or deities in both traditions. However, the study also identifies key differences in the interpretation of spiritual suffering and the role of human agency in the cycles of life and death. This research offers fresh insights into the interconnections between African and Indian spiritual philosophies. It emphasizes the value of cross-cultural studies in deepening our understanding of global belief systems and their moral and existential implications. By examining Ọgbanje and reincarnation side by side, the study sheds light on how different cultures conceptualize the mysteries of life, death, and the afterlife. It ultimately enhances appreciation for the diverse spiritual narratives that shape human experience, while contributing to a growing body of knowledge in comparative religion, anthropology, and intercultural philosophy.