IGBO PHILOSOPHY: A MISCELLANY OF IGBO PROVERBS AND CULTURAL PEDAGOGIES

Abstract

The call for a harmonious integration of people’s belief, ideas and culture is evidently encapsulated in their “philosophy” which comprises the traditional and religious practice and cultural beliefs of the people. However, the way and manner in which these philosophies are understood and transmitted to various generations amongst a given society is no doubt at the mercies of all who live in the society. Igbo people are known for their proverbs which delve into their everyday life and take a high premium on their linguistic culture. It seems that these proverbs can no longer stand the test of time because of poor transmission and changes affecting the world. Hence, it becomes imperative that the meaning, nature, values and the philosophy behind the Igbo proverbs be exposed in order to retain their essence among generations. This paper examines the competence level in the use of proverbs between the old and younger generations of Igbo speakers as richly found in Igbo philosophy. It is, therefore, recommended that Igbo proverbs should be cultivated as an art and cherished as an index of good oratory and acquaintance with traditional knowledge and ancestral wisdom, because the Igbo would say; e jiri mara ndi diiri ha.