Origin of Olokun and the Different Types of Beads and Their Uses

Olokun is a state religion for the Benin people of Southern Nigeria. This interview with Chief Priest Aigbokhaevbo is about the origin of Olokun in Benin Kingdom. It is described as one of the divinities, who were the descendants of the supreme God (Osanobua). These divinities are believed to have been present with God at the creation of the world. The worship of Olokun is usually accompanied by singing and dancing. In Benin cosmology, Olokun is the king of the ocean and bodies of water, while the Ọba of Benin is the king on land. The relation between these two divine entities in the socio-cultural context of Benin society is mentioned. Chief Priest Aigbokhaevbo also describes the process and stages of initiation for Olokun worship. Some of the items used in the performance of Olokun rituals include a clay pot (Akhe), a cock (Ọkporhu), some special types of leaves and a small bell (Aza).