Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has shed light on his spiritual inclinations, revealing a strong affinity for traditional Orisa worshipping over Christianity and Islam.
In an interview with CNN’s Larry Madowo, Soyinka attributed his preference to the artistic and mysterious nature of Orisa worshipping. “For me, it was more artistic, creative, and also more mysterious. I don’t find much of the mysterious in Christianity and even less in Islam,” he stated.
Soyinka’s exposure to both Christian and traditional Orisa worshipping worlds, courtesy of his grandfather, a chief and Orisa devotee, deeply influenced his spiritual leanings. “My grandfather’s side fascinated me a lot more,” he recounted.
Soyinka highlighted Orisa’s ecumenical and non-violent nature, traits that distinguish it from other religions. “Orisa is open, and very ecumenical… it’s not violent. It’s one of those African religions which eschew violence.”
The literary icon made clear his disbelief in the Islamic and Christian Gods, embracing a more spiritual, atheistic stance. “I don’t believe in the Islamic or Christian God… I insisted that all human beings have a certain spiritual core in their being.”
Soyinka also shared his discomfort with adaptations of his life and works, confessing, “Turning anything in my life into what other people can watch pains me. It makes me extremely uncomfortable.”
The renowned playwright’s candid reflections offer a glimpse into his spiritual journey and artistic sensibilities.
– Wole Soyinka’s Literary Legacy
