In this mid-November period, the people of the kingdom are already observing the Ague (November to January).
Ague is the Edo traditional period of FASTING which lasts for three months.
During Ague, strangers are forbidden to enter the city; nobody except the palace servants are allowed to see the Oba; no man is allowed to sleep with his wife or wives; very little food is eaten.
Ague is a period of total abstinence.
Through Ague, the people experience that anyone who has never been hungry could ever appreciate the value of food; anyone who has never been poor could ever appreciate wealth; anyone who has never been without the little pleasures of life could ever appreciate the little pleasures of life. This period of total deprivation and time for reflection is designed to teach the Edo people the importance of prudence and moderation.
To mark the end of the Ague period, the Oba (after his own purification) blesses his people and prays with them for a successful year ahead for each household.
The purpose of Ague is to prepare the Edo people well for a new beginning in the everlasting circle of life. It equips them well with a solid positive mental attitude for success in the coming period.
References:
1) Benin Culture and Traditions; Chief Abulimhen, 2006
2) Contemporary practice of the Edo people
Ague is the Edo traditional period of FASTING which lasts for three months.
During Ague, strangers are forbidden to enter the city; nobody except the palace servants are allowed to see the Oba; no man is allowed to sleep with his wife or wives; very little food is eaten.
Ague is a period of total abstinence.
Through Ague, the people experience that anyone who has never been hungry could ever appreciate the value of food; anyone who has never been poor could ever appreciate wealth; anyone who has never been without the little pleasures of life could ever appreciate the little pleasures of life. This period of total deprivation and time for reflection is designed to teach the Edo people the importance of prudence and moderation.
To mark the end of the Ague period, the Oba (after his own purification) blesses his people and prays with them for a successful year ahead for each household.
The purpose of Ague is to prepare the Edo people well for a new beginning in the everlasting circle of life. It equips them well with a solid positive mental attitude for success in the coming period.
References:
1) Benin Culture and Traditions; Chief Abulimhen, 2006
2) Contemporary practice of the Edo people