KNOWLEDGE, TRUTH AND CERTAINTY IN RELATION TO OJU INU (INNER EYE) AND OJU ITA (OUTER EYE) IN YORUBA PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

Yorùbá Philosophy introduces a unique perspective on knowledge through the ideas of Ojú Inú (inner eye) and Ojú Ìta (outer eye), providing a culturally rich approach to understanding knowledge, truth, and certainty. Traditionally, African thought has often been viewed through the lens of Western philosophy, which can overshadow indigenous viewpoints and their deep intellectual traditions. This paper tackles that issue by delving into how the dual aspects of Ojú Inú and Ojú Ìta create a well-rounded framework for grasping epistemology in Yorùbá thought. It specifically looks at how we acquire knowledge through both external observation (Ojú Ìta) and internal insight (Ojú Inú), highlighting that truth and certainty arise not just from aligning with reality but also through ethical and relational validation within the community. Using a critical-analytic and hermeneutic approach, the study draws from Yorùbá oral traditions, proverbs, Ifá divination texts, and relevant philosophical writings, interpreting these materials through careful textual analysis and comparative reasoning. The findings suggest that Ojú Ìta grounds knowledge in what can be observed, while Ojú Inú offers moral and intuitive understanding, striking a balance between what we perceive externally and what we reflect on internally. By reconstructing a Yorùbá epistemology, this paper adds to the conversation in decolonial philosophy and modern epistemology, presenting a framework that challenges Eurocentric models and enriches current discussions about knowledge, truth, and certainty.