Aroko: Non-Verbal Communication in Yoruba Culture
In Yoruba culture, AROKO serves as a unique non-verbal communication system. Each item carries specific meanings and messages.
Broom (ẸFẸ): Sending a broom indicates a desire to end a relationship or that you no longer wish to see someone in your home.
Chewing Stick (PÁKÒ): Receiving a chewing stick from someone of the opposite sex signifies “I LOVE YOU.”
Orange (ỌSÀN): If you receive an orange, possibly delivered by someone else, it conveys that the sender is pleased with you or expresses affection.
Comb (ÌYARUN/ÒÒYÀ): Typically used to untangle hair, a comb sent to someone signifies separation or the end of a friendship or romantic relationship.
Mat (ẸNÍ): Receiving a raffia mat, especially of the ore type, indicates that someone in the recipient’s household is unwell and losing weight.
Baby Cloth (Ọ̀JÁ/GBÀJÁ): If you receive a piece of cloth used for wrapping a baby, it means the pregnant woman you left behind has successfully given birth.
Empty Calabash (IGBÁ ÒFÌFO): When a king receives an empty calabash or similar items, it suggests that the people are displeased with him, implying he should take drastic actions.
Cowrie Shells (OWÓ ẸYỌ): Cowrie shells hold various meanings in AROKO, influenced by their arrangement. A shell with a string indicates bad news, while two shells tied facing each other signify agreement and harmony. Conversely, shells tied back to back represent discord or rejection.
Number Three: In Yoruba tradition, giving items in threes is avoided due to its confusing nature. However, six cowries tied in pairs express emotions and symbolize longing, conveying “I MISS YOU.”
Flywhisk (ÌRÙKẸ̀RẸ̀): Sending a flywhisk and cowrie shells between monarchs signifies a request for unity or a farewell.
Gun or Gunpowder (ÌBỌN/Ẹ̀TÙ): This symbolizes a declaration of conflict or war, warning the receiving town to prepare for potential battles.
Salt (IYỌ̀): In contrast to gunpowder, salt signifies peace and solidarity. Sending both sword and salt indicates a choice between war and peace in an unresolved situation.
These items reveal the rich tapestry of Yoruba communication and cultural expression.
