In Igbo culture, a Dibia (also spelled Dibịa) is a traditional healer esteemed for their ability to communicate with the spiritual realm and provide guidance and healing to the community. The Dibia holds significant respect and plays a vital role in Igbo society. They are often referred to by titles such as “the wise ones,” “the great ones,” “the eyes of the gods,” or simply “doctors,” which is the literal translation of the word Dibia in the Igbo language.
The Dibia is believed to possess supernatural powers that allow them to diagnose and treat various physical and spiritual ailments. Their methods may include herbal remedies, divination, sacrifices, and other spiritual practices. Additionally, the Dibia performs important rituals such as naming ceremonies and funerals.
Traditionally, the Dibia served as a mediator between the living and the dead and was consulted for matters of justice and conflict resolution. They were also responsible for maintaining the community’s spiritual balance, believed to have the power to avert disasters and bring good fortune.
Today, while traditional healers and diviners still exist within Igbo culture, their role has been somewhat reduced due to the influence of Western medicine and Christianity. Nevertheless, the Dibia and other traditional healers remain an integral part of Igbo cultural heritage and continue to serve in various communities. It is crucial to distinguish between authentic Igbo Dibias and fraudulent online practitioners who falsely claim to offer wealth and other benefits, as this is not part of the traditional Dibia role.
Similar to Western medicine, where the term “doctor” has various definitions:
- A teacher or learned individual.
2. A person who holds a doctorate.
3. A physician or surgeon.
4. A licensed practitioner of any healing art, such as an osteopath, dentist, or veterinarian.
The term “doctor” originates from the Latin word “doctor,” meaning “teacher,” which evolved into Middle English as “doctor” to signify a learned person or teacher. In Igbo culture, the Dibia encompasses several areas of knowledge:
Dibia Ngbọrọgụ na Mkpà Akwụkwọ (Herbalist): These individuals specialize in discovering and treating illnesses using roots, herbs, and natural materials, with the primary goal of saving lives.
Ezemmụọ (Chief Priest of an Oracle):
Referred to as the mouthpiece of the gods, these Dibias mediate between the people and oracles, perform sacrifices, and alert community leaders to societal issues. They are often called “the voice of the gods” or “the eyes of the gods.”
Dibia Owummiri (Rain Doctor):
Specializes in controlling rain and winds, addressing issues related to water spirits such as ọgbanje and iyiụwa. They can influence weather patterns and mediate between individuals and water spirits.
Dibia Mgba Afa (Diviners/Soothsayers):
Experts in spiritual inquiries, these Dibias consult with ancestors’ spirits to uncover the root causes of problems and propose solutions. They may refer clients to higher powers if needed.
Dibia Nha Mmiri (Rain Doctors):
They have the power to control rain and wind, with some able to only cause rain or wind, while others can control both.
In the Igbo setting, these roles are recognized and distinct. It’s essential to understand that some individuals may possess expertise in one area but not others. Some Dibias focus solely on healing, while others may specialize in divination or rain control. The knowledge and practice of being a Dibia involve divine selection or apprenticeship.
It is important to note that the practice of being a Dibia should be about healing, teaching, and uplifting the community, not about causing harm or perpetuating atrocities. The negative portrayal of African healing practices by some individuals and external influences does not reflect the true essence of African spirituality, which is rooted in positivity and maintaining harmony.
Before the advent of Western medicine and psychiatry, Africans had long been treating psychiatric conditions and maintaining good health through natural remedies and spirituality. Every illness has a remedy within African healing practices, and every problem has a solution.
