Yoruba religion is an African traditional religion that dates back to ancient times. It is characterized by polytheistic beliefs where multiple gods are worshipped. Polygamy is also practiced among the Yorubas. This paper will discuss how polygamy integrated cosmology, ethics, and relational management of erotic desire in Yoruba religion.
In Yoruba religion, cosmology refers to the order of the universe and how it functions. Erotic desire is seen as one of the fundamental forces in the cosmos. According to Yoruba mythology, the world was created through erotic union between Olorun, the supreme god, and Obatala, the creator deity. The relationship between these two gods symbolizes the balance between male and female energy.
Ethics refers to moral principles that guide human behavior. In Yoruba religion, morality is based on the principle of achieving harmony between individuals and the society. Polygamy is allowed because it promotes peaceful coexistence between men and women. When a man has more than one wife, he can satisfy his sexual desires without hurting or cheating on just one woman. This way, there are fewer cases of jealousy, conflict, and violence within the family. Polygamy is therefore seen as a means of maintaining social harmony.
Relational management of erotic desire involves managing relationships and intimacy with other people. In Yoruba culture, marriage is seen as a sacred bond between two people who have promised each other fidelity and support.
If this promise cannot be upheld due to the husband's excessive sexual desire, polygamy is encouraged. A man may marry multiple wives who can fulfill his sexual needs and still remain loyal to him. This ensures that erotic desire is managed effectively.
Polygamy is also seen as a way of creating strong relationships among different families. When a man marries multiple wives, they become part of his extended family. This creates a sense of unity and cooperation between them. The husbands and their wives work together to ensure the success of the family unit. Polygamy helps to preserve Yoruba culture and traditions by keeping families close-knit.
Polygamy in Yoruba religion integrates cosmology, ethics, and relational management of erotic desire. It allows for the satisfaction of sexual urges while maintaining social order and cultural values.
How did polygamy in Yoruba religion integrate cosmology, ethics, and relational management of erotic desire?
The Yoruba people practiced a form of marriage that was called "polygamy" where a man could have multiple wives at once. Polygamy was seen as a way for the Yoruba people to follow their religious beliefs and maintain harmony with the gods. It was believed that if a man had many wives, he would be blessed by the gods and receive abundance and prosperity.