The Diala are recognized as the indigenous people of Igbo society, often referred to as the descendants of Amadioha, the God of Thunder and Lightning. Known for their business acumen, they are also believed to possess magical powers, tracing their origins to Nkwo market day in Ụ́tụ́rụ́, where Igbo creation mythology suggests they were brought into existence by Elu (Heaven) and Ala (Mother Earth). In Igbo cosmology, the creation story includes several significant deities:
- Uhammiri – Goddess of the Lake
2. Urashi – God of the Lake, considered a third gender and known as the most handsome of the gods
3. Ogwugwu – God of Confusion
4. Agwu – God of Possession
5. Anyanwu – God of the Sun
6. Nwanyianyanwu – Goddess of the Sun
7. Okeohia – God of the Forest
8. Chukwuabiama – God of Reconciliation
9. Ekwensu – God of Mystery
10. Ugwu – God of Pride
11. Ikenga – God of War
12. Onuma – God of Mercy
13. Ororonjo – God of Ugliness
14. Nma – Goddess of Beauty and Wealth
15. Arusi – Deity of Karma
In traditional Igbo society, the Diala and Dibia (healers or diviners) hold important roles as kingmakers and rainmakers. Rituals in Igbo culture are incomplete without offerings and sacrifices to Ala (Mother Earth), while the supplicant looks up to Elu (Heaven), also referred to as Chi Ukwu (the Great God) or Chineke (the Creator), for divine acceptance. Igbo cosmology emphasizes the existence of multiple creators, both in the heavens and on earth, as opposed to a singular supreme creator.
Each Igbo person is believed to have their own chi (personal god or guardian spirit), reflecting the deeply rooted nature of Igbo spirituality, which often involves various forms of sacrifices. Despite the strong influence of Christianity in Igbo society, many still secretly pay homage to traditional deities, reflecting a deep cultural belief in their power.
Every deity in the Igbo pantheon has distinct preferences for worship and offerings. For example, Amadioha, the God of Thunder, is appeased with the sacrifice of a ram, which holds symbolic significance to him. Uhammiri, the Goddess of the Lake, prefers the offering of a white chicken. Nwanyianyanwu, the Goddess of the Sun, can be honored by placing a mirror under the sun. Each deity has its own shrine, and while individuals may choose which deity to worship, there are no strict rules governing how they are revered. Igbo spirituality is fluid, with no single form of worship being imposed across the culture.
