The Twin Cult in West Africa

A Demographic Distinctiveness

Among the Yoruba communities of southwestern Nigeria, the incidence of twin births is among the highest in the world, with approximately 45 twin births per 1,000 live births. This demographic peculiarity grants twins a unique status, elevating them to beings endowed with a particular spiritual essence. They are placed under the protection of Shango, the orisha of thunder, and are often referred to as the “children of thunder.”

Spiritual Ambivalence and Veneration

The birth of twins is perceived as both a divine blessing and a potential source of spiritual imbalance. Regarded as powerful entities, twins can bring prosperity and harmony to those who honor them properly, yet they may also provoke misfortune and chaos if neglected or disrespected.

Ere Ibeji: Spiritual Embodiments

Due to their vulnerability, it is not uncommon for one or both twins to die prematurely. In such cases, the parents consult an Ifa divination priest, who may recommend the creation of a commemorative statuette known as an Ere Ibeji, representing the deceased twin. This sculpture, carved by a ritually prepared artist, is intended to serve as a vessel for the spirit of the departed child. The mother then treats the figure with the same tenderness and care she would offer a living child—carrying it on her back, feeding it, bathing it, and laying it to rest—thus perpetuating the emotional and spiritual bond.

Rituals and Symbolism

Ere Ibeji are generally depicted as adults in the prime of life, with distinct features such as elaborate hairstyles and ritual scarifications. They are adorned with garments embellished with beads or cowries, and their regular maintenance is vital to ensure the benevolence of the spirit they represent. Offerings of food—such as beans, palm oil, or gari—are commonly made. The face of the statuette is ritually washed, its body anointed with a powder made from camwood mixed with red oil, and the hair dyed with deep indigo.

Transmission and Preservation

Upon the mother’s death, the statuette may be placed in a shrine dedicated to Shango, or entrusted to the surviving twin, who will continue its care until their own passing. In certain families, descendants may choose to sell these sacred objects to local art merchants, thus integrating them into the global market for African art.

Photos credits: Archives MAHICAO - https://mahicao.org/