Why women don't see "Oro" but loved and blessed by Egungun (Masquerade)

Egungun in Eku (Eku means Costume)

Legend has it that, Oro and Egungun were brothers, they were both married, Egungun's wife was so prudent and thrifty... She believed in saving and not spending lavishly....

Oro's wife was the opposite, A spendthrift and a glutton, she was always eating and cared less about the welfare of her husband and family....There is this Yoruba proverb that connotes Oro and his wife's gluttony "o jeun ju Oro lo" He/she eats more than Oro....

We all know, Yoruba culture is so rich and we are blessed, we celebrate all kinds of festival...People dress in beautiful attire to show their wealth, affluence and success of the year.

Egungun as we all know and usually see( Lavishly dressed, regal) with accessories all over such as; mirror, beads, combs, owo eyo (cowries) etc... Was dressed in finest fabric, courtesy of his prudent and thrifty wife...she got blessings from her husband for making him a delight of people, because he was so unique and enjoyed the accolades and cheers from people, that's why masquerade usually blesses women when they see women, ola obinrin rere lo nje.

Oro was dressed in rags and couldn't go for the festival, because he had nothing to wear, he was so ashamed of himself and bitter...He blamed his spendthrift wife, who was always about eating, (Adidun kun inu akisa kun idi) (the one who has sweet things in his/her stomach, but dressed in rags) who wasn't prudent like the wife of his brother Egungun...

He was so furious and angry, he took a cutlass and decided to behead his wife for his Ill fate

She ran out of the house and hid herself where her husband, won't find her....

Oro vowed from that day, to behead her whenever he sees her, for bringing him shame....

Eti ni obinrin fi ngbo ohun Oro (women only hear oro's voice) once she hears his voice, she goes into hiding so Oro won't see her..

That is why, women don't see Oro, but moves with Egungun (Masquerade).

Moral lesson for women; Live a modest life, be prudent, support your man and honour him...If he fails, it's your failure, if he wins, it's your gain, pride and honour.

Egungun is believed to be a messenger from Olodumare, They are referred to as "Ara Orun" People from Heaven, who brings message from creator.

By Omodoyinsola