A Literary and Socio-Cultural Analysis of Polygynous Practices Among the Yorùbá Deities
A Literary and Socio-Cultural Analysis of Polygynous Practices Among the Yorùbá Deities

Summary/Abstract: This study examines the conflicting perspectives on polygyny within Yoruba culture, focusing on two Ifa oral genres: Ọ̀yẹ̀kú méjì and Ọ̀sẹ́ bàrà, which one critiques polygyny as a source of societal discord and the other one endorses it. It argues that the pros and cons of polygyny practices in African society have cultural roots from African cosmology, particularly Yoruba mythology. The study also observes that existing scholarly works on polygyny focus on the problem as it contributes to marital instability and broken homes, to the neglect of the benefits. This research, therefore, fills an existing academic gap by analyzing polygyny's socio-cultural benefits as well as implications through Ifá orature, hence exploring its influence on modern marital dynamics and unintended outcomes like polyandry. This study adopts a mixed-method approach, using primary data from in-depth interviews with purposively selected Ifá priests and priestesses in Southwest Nigeria, recorded for accuracy. Secondary sources include books, journal articles, and credible internet resources. Data were transcribed, translated, and analyzed within a socio-cultural theoretical framework to assess polygyny's impact on gender and social structures. The findings of this study reveal that Ọ̀yẹ̀kú méjì's critique aligns with concerns about marital discord, while Ọ̀sẹ́ bàrà's endorsement perpetuates polygyny among kings and farmers. However, it marginalizes women, fostering resentment and family breakdown. The study underscores the need to re-evaluate polygyny to promote equitable relationships. By bridging traditional Ifá orature and contemporary practices, this research offers a nuanced understanding of polygyny's socio-cultural effects, advocating for alignment with modern egalitarian values and contributing to African cultural heritage discourses.

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