Aziza (African mythology)

The Aziza (African) are a type of beneficent supernatural race in West African (specifically, Dahomey) mythology. Living in the forest, they provide good magic for hunters. They are also known to have given practical and spiritual knowledge to people (including knowledge of the use of fire). The Aziza are described as little hairy people and are said to live in anthills and silk-cotton trees.[1]

While the Aziza are usually described as a people, some traditions also refer to a single individual by name "Aziza", with similar traits. For example, Jeje oral tradition has a divinity called "Aziza" (described as a small, single-legged man smoking a pipe.[2]

According to Ochuko Tonukari, Aziza is also a god of the Urhobo people of the Western Niger Delta of Nigeria.[3]

References

  1. ↑ Fon and Ewe Religion
  2. ↑ Philip M. Peek and Kwesi Yankah, African Folklore: An Encyclopedia, p. 89
  3. ↑ Ochuko J. Tonukari,Aziza: King of the Urhobo Forest waado.org (Urhobo Historical Society )
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