The Origin of the Word “Yoruba” (Yariba)
Author: Bola Olalekan
Understanding the True Meaning of “Yariba” (Yoruba)
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the word “Yoruba”? Have the numerous misconceptions and misunderstandings left you puzzled? I shared the same curiosity, which led me to research this topic deeply.
What does “Yoruba” mean? Does it have any connection to our language? This is a complex topic requiring thorough research and thoughtful consideration.
It’s time we address the confusion surrounding the word “Yoruba.” In Yoruba culture, names often have specific meanings or are derived from significant events. For example, names like “Owolabi” (hoping the child brings wealth) and towns like Ibadan (“Eba-Odan”) and Abeokuta (“Abe Okuta Olumo”) all have meaningful origins. However, the word “Yoruba” does not seem to follow this pattern.
Historically, the term “Yoruba” first appeared in reference to the Oyo Empire in a 16th-century treatise by Songhai scholar Ahmed Baba. It gained popularity through Hausa usage and 19th-century Arabic and Ajami ethnographies, initially referring exclusively to the Oyo people. The term’s broader application to all speakers of related dialects began in the late 19th century, largely due to Samuel Ajayi Crowther, the first Anglican bishop in Nigeria, who compiled the first Yoruba dictionary and standardized Yoruba orthography. The alternative name “Akú,” derived from common Yoruba greetings, persists in some diaspora communities, particularly in Sierra Leone.
My quest for the definition of “Yoruba” led me to various sources, including Samuel Ajayi Crowther’s dictionary, which defines “Yariba” as a deceitful person. Another source, Dr. Taiwo Ayanbolu, suggests that “Yoruba” originates from the Hausa language, meaning deceit. He claims this definition was found in a 19th-century document at York Museum in England.
The name “Yariba” was reportedly used by the Hausa-Fulani, who had early interactions with the Yoruba, possibly due to the Yoruba’s trading skills. Another theory is that the name emerged during conflicts between the Yoruba and Fulani, particularly after the Fulani conquest of Ilorin in the 18th century.
Similarly, the Igbo people rejected the derogatory name “Yinmiri” given by the Hausa-Fulani, but the Yoruba have not widely contested “Yariba.” Another Hausa origin suggests “Yaribansa” means a deceitful person, while “Yaari bawa” translates to slave folks, reflecting the Yoruba’s involvement in the slave trade.
In Professor Ade Ajayi’s book “Yoruba Warfare in the Nineteenth Century,” he argues that during British indirect rule, a unified name was needed for Yoruba-speaking towns, leading to the adoption of “Yoruba,” derived from “Yariba” or “Yaari bawa.” Despite initial resistance, especially from the Ijebu, Ijesa, and Egba, the name gradually became accepted. The Egba were the last to accept it, as indicated by the 1859 newspaper title “Iwe Iroyin Fun Ara Egba Ati Yoruba.”
My exploration of Yoruba oral traditions, including the Odu Ifa and various chants, reveals that the Yoruba historically referred to themselves as “Omo Kaaro Ojiire,” “Omo Oduduwa,” or “Omoluabi,” rather than “Yoruba.”
Understanding the origin of the word “Yoruba” is challenging, especially since the name is now widely recognized. While it’s too late to change our appellation, it’s essential to acknowledge its history and implications.
Reflect and Continue
As we navigate the complexities of our identity, let’s embrace the journey of understanding our roots and carry forward the legacy with pride and awareness.
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