Why I prefer Orisa worship to Christianity, Islam – Wole Soyinka

Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka has expressed his preference for traditional Orisa worship over Christianity and Islam, highlighting its artistic, creative, and non-violent nature.

In an interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo, Soyinka explained that Orisa worship appealed to him due to its mystery, inclusiveness, and ecumenical qualities.

“I was fortunate to be born in two worlds – the Christian world and traditional Orisa worshippers. My grandfather, until he, poor man, also got converted, was an Orisa person and a chief, and his side fascinated me a lot more,” Soyinka said.

He added:

“For me, it (Orisa worship) was more artistic, creative, and also more mysterious. I don’t find much of the mysterious in Christianity and even less in Islam… Orisa is open, and very ecumenical and that is why these foreign religions were able to penetrate it and even distort the truth. Because of the generosity of this spirit, it is not violent. It is one of those African religions which eschew violence.”

Soyinka also clarified his personal beliefs:

“I don’t believe in the Islamic or Christian God and for the adherents of these religions, if that makes me an atheist, so I say, I am an atheist. I insist that all human beings have a certain spiritual core in their being; I believe myself to be a more spirit-sensitive person.”

The playwright further revealed that he is uncomfortable with adaptations of his life or works, saying such projects cause him pain and discomfort.