Abstract
Prayer among the Aladura Pentecostals (AP) in Nigeria has been generally perceived as a habit. Previous studies had dwelled on their fervency in prayer. However, not much attention has been laid on the spiritual implications of their prayers. This paper focused on AP vigil (nocturnal) prayer, vis-à-vis its connection with Yoruba Traditions (YT) at night time. This paper examined AP and YT perceptions of nighttime prayers towards identifying their spiritual implications vis-à-vis prayer as an assault, the timing/skills used and the recoverable. Interviews were conducted and a questionnaire was distributed among selected AP. Data was subjected to simple descriptive analyses. Three concepts were identified in AP vigil prayer that aligns with YT namely, apprehending the enemy, nighttime battle and, repossession. About the first, evil and good forces operate at night. Imprecation, invocation, ritual observance, timing, precision, and numbering concepts are engaged therein. About the second, how to pinpoint and confront the forces, the processes for fortification, venue, posturing and calisthenics, what to say, invoke, recite, and chant are accentuated. About the third, inquiry/diagnosis, spiritual violence, prayer weapons like designated psalms and tasks, are deployed. Natural or synthetic materials and elements like water, fabrics, wax light, and totems are used. The entire aforementioned are also associated with YT’s night rituals. Aladura Christianity and Yoruba Religion are allies sharing obvious links. Their procedures about night praying mode are similar. We conclude that the two religions share a lot and will likely continue to do so.
Presenters
Adewale, Olukayode OgunrinadeProfessor, Religious Studies, Gombe State University, Gombe, Nigeria
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Religious Community and Socialization
KEYWORDS
Spirituality, Pentecostal, Prayer, Yoruba, Aladura
