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Culture / Surprising Influences And Examples Of Paganism In The World's Largest Religion by FARA4GA: 9:27am On Mar 26, 2023
Introduction

Religion has been one of the most powerful and pervasive forces in human society throughout history. People have turned to religion to make sense of the world around them, to seek guidance and comfort, and to connect with something greater than themselves since the dawn of civilization.

With over 2 billion followers worldwide, Christianity is the world's largest religion. It is a monotheistic religion with roots in Jesus Christ's life and teachings. However, the history of Christianity is complicated, and it has been influenced by other religious traditions. Many of the people who converted to Christianity in the early days came from pagan backgrounds.

Paganism, which has had a significant impact on Christianity throughout history, is one of the most fascinating of these. Pagan rituals and symbols from ancient polytheistic religions to rural community folk practices have all left their imprint on Christianity. As a result, in order to make the transition to Christianity easier for these converts, Christianity adopted many of the practices and beliefs of these pagan religions.

In this blog post, we will look at some of the surprising connections between these two religions, as well as how paganism has influenced Christianity.

Holidays

The majority of people associate Christianity with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Bible. However, many people are unaware that Christianity's roots are deeply entwined with pagan religions.

Any religion that is not one of the major world religions, such as Christianity, Islam, or Judaism, is considered pagan. Pagan religions have been practiced for thousands of years and are distinguished by polytheistic beliefs, nature and ancestor worship, and the use of rituals and ceremonies.

Holidays are one of the most visible ways that paganism has influenced Christianity. Many of Christianity's most important holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, have pagan origins. For example, the December 25th celebration of Christmas has its origins in paganism.

While the holiday is widely associated with the birth of Jesus, many of its traditions and symbols have their origins in pre-Christian pagan festivals.

Saturnalia, a festival honoring the god Saturn, was celebrated by the ancient Romans from December 17th to December 23rd. People would exchange gifts, decorate their homes with evergreen branches, and feast with friends and family during this time.

When Christianity became the dominant religion in Rome, church leaders decided to adopt many of Saturnalia's traditions in order to ease the Roman people's transition to Christianity. They established December 25th as the official date of Jesus' birth and established the holiday of Christmas, which incorporated many of Saturnalia's pagan traditions.

Many popular Christmas traditions, including the Yule log, the Christmas tree, and even Santa Claus, can be traced back to pagan rituals and symbols.

The Christian holiday of Easter, like Christmas, has its origins in pagan celebrations of the spring equinox. The spring equinox was a time of renewal and rebirth for many ancient cultures when the natural world came back to life after a long, dark winter.

This renewal was marked in many pagan traditions by feasting, dancing, and the lighting of fires. When Christianity spread throughout Europe, these pagan traditions were adapted and incorporated into the Easter celebration, which commemorates Jesus' resurrection.

Symbols and Beliefs

Symbols are another way in which paganism has influenced Christianity. Many of the symbols commonly associated with.......

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Religion / The Rise And Fall Of Nri Kinhdom by FARA4GA: 1:46pm On Mar 25, 2023
Introduction

The Nri Kingdom, one of the most prominent civilizations in pre-colonial present-day South-East Nigeria, West Africa, flourished for several centuries before its decline. The Nri kingdom was famous for its unique political system, religious beliefs, and cultural practices at its peak. However, its power and influence began to dwindle over time, eventually leading to its demise. In this article, we'll look at the rise of the Nri Kingdom as well as the factors that contributed to its demise.

The Ascension of the Nri Kingdom

Eri, a mythical figure in Igbo mythology who descended from the sky, founded the Nri Kingdom, also known as the Kingdom of Nri, in the 9th century AD. Eri was thought to be a divine being sent by Chukwu, the supreme deity, to establish the kingdom. The kingdom was located in present-day Nigeria's southern region, now known as Anambra State. The Nri Kingdom was ruled by the Eze Nri, who was regarded as the Igbo people's spiritual and political leader.

The Nri Kingdom was a major trading and commercial center, with a thriving economy based on agriculture, craft production, and trade. The kingdom was also known for its religious and cultural traditions, which included deity worship and the use of sacred symbols and objects. The worship of a pantheon of gods and goddesses, including Ala, the earth goddess, and Amadioha, god of thunder and lightning, was central to the kingdom's religious practices. Traveling priests, who were highly respected for their knowledge and piety, later spread these beliefs throughout the Igbo region and beyond.

Part of the kingdom's success could be attributed to its sophisticated administrative system, which was based on a complex system of customs and laws; a caste system; and a council of priests/chiefs/elders who advised the Eze Nri on governance issues. The Eze Nri were the highest caste, followed by the Amala, Ozo/titled men, and commoners. The caste system was created to keep social order and prevent conflict within the kingdom.

The Nri Kingdom was at its most powerful in the 11th and 12th centuries. The wealth of the kingdom was based on trade, with the Nri trading ivory, copper, and slaves. The Nri Kingdom also became a center of learning, with scholars and philosophers traveling from all over West Africa to study and exchange ideas.

The Nri Kingdom expanded its territory through conquest but mainly by diplomacy because it was thought that violence was an abomination that polluted the earth. By the 14th century, it had established itself as a dominant power in the region, with a sphere of influence extending all the way to the Niger Delta.

In most cases, the kingdom of Nri expanded by sending mbùrchi, or converts, to other settlements. Allegiance to the eze Nri was obtained through ritual oath rather than military force. The local king exercised religious authority, and ties were maintained by traveling mbùrchi.

Another reason for the Nri Kingdom's rise was its location at the crossroads of several trade routes. The kingdom had control over valuable commodities like salt, iron, and slaves, giving it significant economic leverage.

Furthermore, the Nri rulers were skilled at diplomacy and were able to form alliances with neighboring communities in order to achieve their personal objectives. The kingdom was a safe haven for those who had been rejected by their communities, such as the Osu outcast, as well as a place where slaves were freed from their bonds. Nri grew through converts gaining the support of neighboring communities, not through force.

Factors Contributing to the Decline of the Nri Kingdom

Despite its early success and numerous accomplishments, the Nri Kingdom began to decline. This decline was influenced by a number of factors, including:

The decline of the Nri Kingdom began in the 17th century when diseases brought by Portuguese and other European traders and missionaries devastated the population.

Another factor was the region's increasing militarization. The Nri Kingdom was surrounded by powerful neighboring states such as the Kingdom of Benin and the Igala Kingdom, all of which vied for control of resources and territory. The Nri Kingdom was not immune to this conflict, and the priest-kings were forced to defend their territory with military force. The constant warfare, on the other hand, depleted the kingdom's resources and weakened its ability to maintain social and spiritual order.

The introduction of firearms by European traders, in particular, altered the regional power balance. Because the Nri Kingdom could not keep up with new military technology, it began to lose territory to rival states.

Internal conflict was another factor in the Nri Kingdom's decline. As the kingdom grew in size, it became more difficult to maintain unity among the kingdom's various ethnic groups and clans. Power struggles and infighting ensued, weakening the kingdom and making it more vulnerable to external threats.

The final blow to the Nri Kingdom's decline came in the nineteenth century when British colonizers arrived in West Africa. The British colonizers saw the Nri Kingdom as a threat to their colonial rule and sought to dismantle the kingdom's power structure.

The British colonial government introduced new political and economic systems that undermined the traditional authority of the Nri priest-kings and weakened the kingdom's power; new laws and policies disrupted the kingdom's political and social structure.

The British brought Christianity to the region and encouraged the Igbo people to convert to Christianity. As a result, the Eze Nri's influence as the spiritual leader of the Igbo people waned. The British also established an indirect rule system, allowing them to control the region through local chiefs and rulers.........

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Religion / A Deep Dive Into Deities, Ancestor Veneration, And Ritual Practices by FARA4GA: 11:39am On Mar 25, 2023
Exploring Igbo Traditional Religion's Rich Heritage: A Deep Dive into Deities, Ancestor Veneration, and Ritual Practices


The Igbo people, one of Nigeria's most populous ethnic groups, have a rich and diverse cultural heritage that includes a distinct system of traditional religion.

This religion is based on the worship of various deities and the veneration of ancestors, both of which are essential components of Igbo spiritual practice. In this blog post, we will delve into Igbo traditional religion, looking at deity worship and the significance of ancestor veneration in Igbo culture.

Deities in Igbo Traditional Religion

There are numerous deities or spirits worshiped and believed to have control over various aspects of life in Igbo traditional religion. Amadioha, the god of thunder and lightning, is one of the most important deities. People pray to Amadioha for protection and justice because of his power. Ala, the earth goddess who is believed to be the mother of all things, is another important deity. She is admired for her nurturing qualities and ability to provide food for others.

Ikenga, the god of personal achievement and success, Mami Wata, the goddess of the sea and fertility, and Ekwensu, the trickster god, are among the other deities in Igbo traditional religion. Each of these deities has unique characteristics and is thought to have the ability to influence human affairs. People frequently offer sacrifices and perform rituals to appease and seek the blessings of these deities.

Veneration of Ancestors in Igbo Traditional Religion

Ancestor worship is an important aspect of Igbo traditional religion. The Igbo believe that their ancestors still play an important role in their lives and have the ability to influence their fortunes. Ancestors are thought to have direct communication with the gods and to act as liaisons between the living and the spirit world.

A variety of rituals and ceremonies are used to revere and honor ancestors. During the Iri Ji (New Yam Festival), for example, people thank their ancestors for their protection and guidance by offering the first yams of the season to them. Ancestor veneration is also visible in child naming, where children are frequently named after deceased ancestors, as well as the belief that deceased ancestors can influence the lives of their descendants.........



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Culture / Mgbedike - Time Of The Brave by FARA4GA: 7:25am On Dec 18, 2022
Sports / Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Can Do Better Than Morocco – NFF by FARA4GA: 2:29pm On Dec 13, 2022
But corruption and nepotism no go gree una fly
Politics / Re: I Told Obasanjo That I Couldn't Build A Presidential Lodge For Him - Peter Obi by FARA4GA: 2:26pm On Dec 13, 2022
Onye kwuru that thing ?

7 Likes

Politics / Re: APC Or Labour Party Presidency, A Threat To Nigeria's Unity - Harry Ariko by FARA4GA: 1:16pm On Dec 13, 2022
Onye kwuru that thing?

Investment / Re: FTX Founder, Bankman-Fried Arrested In Bahamas, To Be Extradited To The US by FARA4GA: 8:27am On Dec 13, 2022
Onye kwuru that thing?

6 Likes 1 Share

Politics / Re: Bola Tinubu Turbaned The Defender (Dakare) Of Birni Gwari (Photos) by FARA4GA: 8:15am On Dec 13, 2022
Onye kwuru that thing ?

Romance / Re: Lady Allegedly Turns Into Cow After Her Husband Caught Her Cheating (Video) by FARA4GA: 9:18am On Dec 10, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IEmswNM_OLM

If you believe this crap....then you will believe tye above video represents the spirit of your ancestor that has come back to earth....lol
Politics / Re: Aminu Mohammed: Student Who Criticised Aisha Buhari Regains Freedom by FARA4GA: 7:35am On Dec 03, 2022
The guy be like person wey go wicked ooo... See face

3 Likes

Travel / Re: Japa Story: The Cost Of Relocating To The UK With Family by FARA4GA: 9:14am On Dec 01, 2022
Chai
Politics / Re: Court Orders Arrest Of COAS Faruk Yahaya & Maj Gen Olabanji by FARA4GA: 10:05pm On Nov 30, 2022
This is what they call.... MBA ha na abalu agu.... If you don't gerrit... Fogerrit

3 Likes

Webmasters / Re: Ad Is Turned On But Doesn't Play On My Video by FARA4GA: 3:06pm On Nov 30, 2022
Hope you have been able to resolve your issue?

Didn't know YouTube has started accepting content creators that USE text to speech.

I love your contents though... Kudos..

Can you share with me, any group you are in that does sub4sub... Thanks
Crime / Re: Slami Ifeanyi Shot Dead In Anambra By Gunmen (Video, Pics) by FARA4GA: 2:34pm On Nov 30, 2022
Too bad...... Nnamdi Kanu curse to the south east

1 Like

Car Talk / Abuja Stadium by FARA4GA: 2:35am On Feb 18, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuH7yAU6FIg

Moshood Abiola National Stadium (formerly known as National Stadium, Abuja) is a multipurpose national sports stadium in Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory. The stadium is home to the Nigerian national football team as well as a venue for a variety of social, cultural, and religious activities. On July 18, 2000, the Nigerian government approved the contract for the development of the National Stadium complex. It was built to host the 8th All Africa Games, which were held in October 2003. On June 12, 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari announced that the Abuja Stadium would be renamed Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

Today, I will take you on a journey to the stadium. Our take-off point is from Gidado street in Wuye.

1 Like

Travel / A Drive To Abuja National Stadium (video) by FARA4GA: 2:12am On Feb 18, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuH7yAU6FIg

Moshood Abiola National Stadium (formerly known as National Stadium, Abuja) is a multipurpose national sports stadium in Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory. The stadium is home to the Nigerian national football team as well as a venue for a variety of social, cultural, and religious activities. On July 18, 2000, the Nigerian government approved the contract for the development of the National Stadium complex. It was built to host the 8th All Africa Games, which were held in October 2003. On June 12, 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari announced that the Abuja Stadium would be renamed Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

Today, I will take you on a journey to the stadium. Our take-off point is from Gidado street in Wuye.
Autos / A Drive To Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja (video) by FARA4GA: 1:58am On Feb 18, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuH7yAU6FIg

Moshood Abiola National Stadium (formerly known as National Stadium, Abuja) is a multipurpose national sports stadium in Abuja, Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory. The stadium is home to the Nigerian national football team as well as a venue for a variety of social, cultural, and religious activities. On July 18, 2000, the Nigerian government approved the contract for the development of the National Stadium complex. It was built to host the 8th All Africa Games, which were held in October 2003. On June 12, 2019, President Muhammadu Buhari announced that the Abuja Stadium would be renamed Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

Today, I will take you on a journey to the stadium. Our take-off point is from Gidado street in Wuye.
Travel / A Trip To Iyi Uba Cave And Waterfall – Obinagu, Udi | Enugu State by FARA4GA: 12:04am On Feb 02, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjCMOkquU3I

While in my meditation mode one early morning during the holidays in my village, I remembered some stories my father told us about our village stream called Iyi-uba when we were young. Among the stories, he told us was on the perceived healing powers of the spring water, and how the villagers were saved from harm and danger during the Nigerian – Biafra war by camping at Iyi-uba all through the war.

The thought now came to me to pay a visit to iyi uba and share my experience with you guys.

Situated in Obinagu, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, the waterfall is a result of a massive outcrop of rock with water cascading over the top forming a stream.

If you love adventure and nature, then this video is definitely for you.

Culture / Re: Intercultural Exchange Of Masquerade Videos by FARA4GA: 11:28pm On Dec 06, 2021
Politics / Re: Enugu, The Pride Of The East. by FARA4GA: 2:16am On Nov 22, 2021
Politics / Re: Fulani Herdsmen Destroyed My Friend's 40 Acres Of Farmland - Apoti Eri by FARA4GA: 3:13pm On Aug 02, 2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocsYWdnwPnE


Lol.... @op...before your guy acts.... Send him the above video.... Also ask of what became of the community 2 weeks after the threats....

I pity fulani after this present presidency.... That is why I wonder if they will leave power, knowing what is about to happen after 2023

1 Like

Travel / Re: Slay Queen Embarrassed By Bolt Driver For Not Paying, Boyfriend Couldn't Show Up by FARA4GA: 9:45am On Aug 02, 2021
Lol
Celebrities / Re: Prince Nelson Celebrates 26th Birthday, Gets Plot Of Land, Gifts From Friends by FARA4GA: 9:33am On Aug 02, 2021
Politics / Re: DCP Abba Kyari's List Of Achievements (Photo) by FARA4GA: 8:02am On Aug 02, 2021

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pta2ZqqC568

Coming to think of it.... One needs to look into the Wadume case where some of Kyari men was killed by the Military.... Na so the case just died down....

1 Like

Jobs/Vacancies / Re: Why Are Graduate Northerns Not Looking For Job Like Other Region by FARA4GA: 11:05pm On Aug 01, 2021
Very valid question..... Even though we all know the answer

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