Godianism
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Godianism (also called Chiism, Ofufechi and Okebulani) is a new religious movement which was established in 1948 in Nigeria.
The founder and high priest of the group, Kama onu Kama Onyioha, has stated that he intends to correct the notion that African traditional religions are "pagan". This individual has been described as a propogandist, who travels in a vehicle with the phrase "Godian Religion" written on it and offers lectures at American universities.
The religion has since spread to other parts of West Africa, particularly Ghana. A former Catholic priest, and former member of the Provisional National Defence Council of Ghana after the coup by Jerry Rawlings in 1982, named Vincent Kwabena Damuah wrote a booklet entitled Miracle at the shrine:religious and revolutionary miracle in Ghana under the name Osofo Okomfo Damuah, which has been very influential in helping the new faith develop in Ghana.
The religion has since its inception turned from one which was created with pronounced political motives. This can be seen in a quote from the religion's holy book, the Nkomii, in which Chineke says to his people, "No one is creatged by me to be desitute. Listen inwardly to yourself, identify who you are in terms of your Ikenga (talent), then properly interpret and obey my faint voice in you, and you will be led by your Chi to the hallmark of your Akaraka (Destiny), which is ultimate happiness which consummates itself in service from which my children of light will derive happiness, consolation and peace of mind.” It has since then developed and displayed strong cultural and philosophical aspects, and has been described as being a "philosophical reflection on African traditional religious customs".
The religion hold that Chineke is the creator of the universe. It also describes the Igbo language as being one of the languages used by Chineke with which to communicate with mortals, including in the faith's book, called the Nkomii. The major Abrahamic faiths, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, are all said to be derived from the original teachings contained in this book.
