Implications Of Ritual Symbolism In Sustenance Of Culture And Meaning In Nigeria: A Case Study Of Tiv In North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Ritual symbolism is an essential aspect of understanding a people's way of life. It is an essential tool used by people to interpret and analyze cultural traits in any society. The role played by ritual symbolism is so vital that no society of the
world can exist without it. In African society, ritual symbolism is the panacea for understanding the customs, traditions, beliefs and human behaviors in the society. The main aim of this review therefore was to examine the implications of ritual symbolism in sustenance of culture and meaning in Africa, using the Tiv, in North Central Nigeria as a case study. The study also discussed certain cultural traits in Nigeria such as festivals and dance, arts and crafts, body decoration and facial scarification, initiation, among others. It was recommended that these cultural traits which have been influenced by the advent of globalization should be refined to give African culture an authentic meaning.