Photo Credit: Daily Monitor
Edo Naming Ceremony
In the traditional Edo society of Nigeria, a name is chosen for a child only after traditional healers reveal which of the newborns dead relatives or ancestors have reincarnated through the child. The elders pray for long life and good health for the new baby, in addition to blessing the parents. A coconut is then broken and its water is shown to the mother as an emblem of the mystery of life.
The prayer of the elders is followed later in the evening by a larger ceremony attended by friends and well-wishers. Traditional food and drinks, including kola nuts and alligator peppers, are served as the guests join in the celebration of a newborn life.
