In Ebira tradition, Onovave refers to the deeply held belief in reincarnation, where a person’s soul embarks on a new life after their biological death. This concept posits that individuals often reincarnate within their own families, embodying the spirits of deceased relatives. This belief is the foundation for various practices, including Eva Ozi, a traditional healing ritual that continues to be observed today. There have even been documented cases of individuals falling ill abroad, being brought back to Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria, for Eva Ozi, and subsequently recovering.
Recognizing a Reincarnated Spirit
The Ebira people believe that a reincarnated soul will often make its presence known by subtly disturbing the person carrying its spirit, indicating a desire to be recognized. This recognition is frequently facilitated through an Oheva, an individual who consults the Oracle of Wisdom. My next article will delve deeper into Eva Ozi, a practice often viewed as contrary to Islamic and Christian doctrines, which consider it an act of Satan. However, for now, let’s explore Onovave in more detail.
Why Understanding Ebira Traditions Matters
This article aims to educate readers about the rich and complex traditions of the Ebira people. The topics I cover on Ebira Online Media are often in response to public demand or are deemed crucial for younger generations to understand. This particular article was prompted by a direct request from a follower who questioned whether reincarnation is a genuine belief or merely a tale to frighten children.
Here’s the message I received, which highlights the personal impact of these beliefs:
“Hello Yakubu Binuyaminu Adeiza of Ebira Online Media, I urgently need your help regarding reincarnation. My brother and I, despite our love for each other, never get along and are always in conflict. Surprisingly, my mother is unbothered by this and explained that it’s because we reincarnated family members who also never got along—my brother as our grandfather and myself as our grandfather’s younger brother. This situation has deeply troubled me. Since you are in Nigeria, where such beliefs might be more familiar, could you offer any guidance? Thanks in advance.” — Yusuf Ozovehe, England
Onovave: Beyond the Family Circle
While reincarnation within the family is common, traditional Ebira belief also holds that individuals who die untimely deaths may reincarnate to complete their remaining years in a different location, sometimes even among different tribes. My grandfather, a fount of traditional knowledge, once shared a compelling story:
He recounted an instance of someone who died in Okene and was inexplicably found ten years later in a small Yoruba village, living with a new family. After persistent urging from his new wife to reveal his origins, he eventually brought them to Okene. However, he mysteriously disappeared again shortly after. This story, widely discussed in Inoziomi, has never been refuted by the family involved.
Eva Ozi and Naming Conventions for the Reborn
Following the performance of Eva Ozi by an Oheva, if a reincarnated person is identified, specific names are often given to reflect this belief. Names like Inya, Inda, Mummy, and Daddy are common, signifying the return of a deceased family member. Children identified as reincarnated are often pampered and treated with the respect due to an elder who has returned.
This practice has parallels in other cultures; for example, in Yoruba culture, names like Babatunde or Yetunde literally mean “father has returned” or “mother has returned.” While not all individuals bearing these names have undergone an Eva Ozi ritual, the influence of the belief in reincarnation is clearly evident in such naming conventions.
The Islamic Perspective on Reincarnation (Onovave)
In Islam, while the concept of reincarnation might be acknowledged by some as an idea, it is generally considered to be the work of evil spirits rather than the actual return of deceased family members. From an Islamic viewpoint, these spirits aim to deceive and lead people astray. Consulting an Oheva, which is against Islamic law, is strictly discouraged for Muslims. Adherents of Islam are advised to exercise caution and avoid engaging with such beliefs and practices.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article and learn about a significant aspect of Ebira traditional belief. If you appreciate the content on Ebira Online Media and wish to support our work in exploring and sharing Ebira culture, please consider making a donation. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our WhatsApp Channel for more updates.
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