ISLAMIC CUM TRADITIONAL BURIAL AND FUNERAL RITES AMONG YORUBA MUSLIMS IN OKE-OGUN AREA OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined Islamic and the traditional burial and funeral rites among Yoruba Muslims using Oke-Ogun area in Oyo State as a case study. In the extant literature, there are arguments that Yoruba Muslims compromise burial and funeral rites as against Islamic doctrine. Whilea further speculation holds that Yoruba Muslims do not mix Islamic burial and funeral rites with traditional mode, a recent view suggests that many Yoruba Muslims of contemporary period lack knowledge about burial and funeral rites of traditionalists. In this research, qualitative method was adopted. Using instruments like interview, focus group discussion (FGD) and observation generated adequate data for the work. Data were analysed through the historical content received from correspondents and some published works. Findings therefore show that some Yoruba Muslims are consistent with, and not compromising Islamic doctrines regarding burial and funeral rites. Adherents of traditional religion have specific practices connected to burial and funeral rites. Both religions agreed on ritual bath, grave digging, burial, clothing the deceased, condolence greetings. The work underscored absolute knowledge on burial and funeral rites by Muslims and traditionalists in Oke-Ogun. It also indicated significance of freedom of religion in Yorubaland especially in Oke-Ogun, therefore no act of syncriticism among them. Yoruba Muslims encourage good relationship irrespective of religious background. The research recommended that Alfas and Imams should intensify teaching on the practice of Islamic burial and funeral rites while traditionalists should adopt moral and ethical teachings in these rites. This research ultimately contributed to the understanding of how Yoruba Muslims and traditionalists in Oke-Ogun are negotiating their identities at the intersection of traditional and Islamic cultural practices regarding burial and funeral rites.