The Contested Origin of the Igbo

The most densely populated region of Nigeria, perhaps in the whole continent, lies in the Southeastern region. The people of the region mostly consist of Igbo, the second largest ethnic Nigerian tribe. Their native language is Igbo, which includes a large number of dialects, some only spoken in a particular village. Although there are common practices, much of the cultural practices of this tribe vary based on region and, especially in the case of one particular group, ancestral family.

The Igbo Jews

The individuals that identify as Jewish among the Igbo tribe would be easily identifiable as such by outsiders with a basic understanding of Judaism. For example, men and boys wear their kippahs and they are instructed in their faith from the Torah. Yet, appearances and faith aside, these Igbo are not officially recognized as Jews.

 

Igbo Jews claim to be descendants of one of the 10 lost tribes of Israel, forced to flee after an Assyrian invasion in the 8th century BC. This idea has support from scholarly sources, as many historians examining the events have postulated that a migration into Africa would be a likely step for the fleeing tribes.

 

The specific lineage the Igbo's site originated in the seventh son of Jacob, the Jewish patriarch, who was named Gad. This son of Jacob was among the exiles, and the Igbo believe he then had a son named Eri, from whom the Igbo originated. There are even those who report being direct descendants of Eri, meaning they are also the direct descendants of Jacob.

 

There are striking similarities between Jewish culture and that of Igbos in general that make these beliefs believable. Circumcision practices and the required eight-day waiting period after birth exist in both groups. Other similarities include the mourning period of seven days, being forbidden from eating various food, and even the canopy used during weddings.

Fact or Fiction

As the science of genetics advances, the question of the Igbo origin, as well as many others, will most likely be solved. For their part, Igbo Jews think the matter already settled. Many outsiders agree, proving their agreement by helping the people of this religious minority.

 

Igbo outside of the Jewish community, even other Igbo find much in this story to fault in regards to Igbo ancestry. Their distaste is a result of the belief that it ignores their own ancient culture in favor of a white one.

 

Outside observers might believe that, while this is an interesting historical puzzle, it does not merit the passion it often elicits from Igbo Jews. Understandable to think so, except such a lack of nuance completely misses the underlying context. By not giving in, by telling their story, which in their eyes is historical fact, the Igbo Jews are fighting not for a label, but to be acknowledged for who they are. With scientific proof, they would no longer be a rather interesting anomaly to forget immediately, but a valid and valuable part of worldwide Jewish culture, and that is absolutely an issue worthy of some passion.

 

Dayo is a freelance writer Igbolive. Our objective is reporting of Igbo news in its truthful and unbiased form to diasporean-igbos, Nigerians, Africa and around the world.