A CURSORY REVIEW OF IGBO TRADITIONAL AND RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE

Abstract

Religion can be defined objectively and subjectively, both recognizing man’s dependence on a transcendent being. The object of Igbo religious belief and worship are three: God, non – human spirits and the ancestors. Since the coming of the colonial masters the practice and worship of the ideal Igbo religion have been on the decline. As a result proper emphasis and modern technologies have not been used to modify and enhance the Igbo religious architecture. This study initiates the proper study of the indigenous Igbo religion, its customs and tradition and also their religion architecture in order to introduce new and advanced method in its architecture thereby encouraging its practice. This can be achieved by proper study of the dogma in the religion, symbolism of different elements used in the practice of the religion, knowing the detailed reason behind every construction method, planting of various trees, and landscape of various shrines thus substituting the elements of construction which cannot stand the test of time for a more superior material which can serve the worshippers for at least a century. Finally, after a close study of the Igbo religion, it can be seen that every religion has the same process of worship and belief. With that in mind, proper attention is to be paid to the disintegrating and dilapidated religious practices and structures of the Igbo religious architecture and hence salvage what is left of it.