Collecting African Tribal Art : Discipline

The Igbo Ikenga Concept: Unveiling the Essence of Discipline

Discipline is a cornerstone of personal and societal growth, guiding individuals toward achieving their goals and maintaining order within a community. In exploring the concept of discipline, we delve into the Igbo Ikenga philosophy, which encapsulates the essence of discipline in the Igbo culture of Nigeria. This blog explores the Igbo Ikenga concept in relation to discipline, drawing inspiration from prominent figures such as Wole Soyinka, Confucius, Aristotle, and Dr. Eric Williams, who have shared profound insights on the subject.

Keita Ikenga

The Igbo Ikenga Concept:

In Igbo tradition, the Ikenga symbolizes personal achievement, success, and individual strength. It serves as a representation of the power of the individual and embodies qualities such as discipline, determination, and resilience. The Ikenga figure often depicts a man with a strong muscular body, clenched fists, and a prominent horned headdress, reflecting the embodiment of discipline as a forceful virtue.

Wole Soyinka’s Perspective:

Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, known for his intellectual contributions, once remarked, “Discipline is the refining fire by which talent becomes ability.” Soyinka emphasizes that discipline refines inherent talent, molding it into tangible abilities. Through discipline, individuals harness their potential, enabling them to achieve greatness.

Confucius and the Way of Discipline:

The renowned Chinese philosopher Confucius believed that discipline lies at the core of moral development and social harmony. He said, “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.” Confucius emphasizes that discipline starts within the individual and extends to society, illustrating that personal discipline is foundational for the betterment of communities.

Aristotle’s Virtuous Discipline:

Aristotle, a prominent philosopher of ancient Greece, considered discipline as a virtue that empowers individuals to lead virtuous lives. He stated, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” Aristotle’s perspective highlights the significance of disciplined actions in shaping one’s character and attaining excellence.

Dr. Eric Williams on Self-Discipline:

Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, believed in the transformative power of self-discipline. He stated, “The psychological and moral discipline that it (discipline) implies, the personal responsibility it entails, are of the highest importance in any society.” Williams underscores the role of discipline in fostering personal responsibility, paving the way for a flourishing society.

Conclusion:

The Igbo Ikenga concept embodies the essence of discipline, capturing its significance in personal and societal development. As we explore the perspectives of Wole Soyinka, Confucius, Aristotle, and Eric Williams, we witness the universality of discipline’s transformative power. Whether refining talent, cultivating integrity, pursuing excellence, or nurturing personal responsibility, discipline emerges as an essential element for growth and progress. By embracing the Igbo Ikenga concept and the wisdom shared by these eminent figures, we can unlock our potential, cultivate discipline, and embark on a path of personal and communal fulfillment.

Collecting African Tribal Art : Courage

The Mgbedike is an Igbo mask that translates to “Time of the Brave”. The secret sauce is the ‘spiritual’ visualization of Courage (see Ikenga for a similar visual manifestation related to Discipline) and Fortitude, with massive horns and ferocious teeth. One Igbo tenet circles individual accomplishment and social progress. The mask therefore acts as part of a social framework (aka “Village”) for reinforcing a multi-value system that is engaging to children as well as adults.

Mgbedike – “Time of the Brave”

Maya Angelou on Courage.

“I am convinced that courage is the most important of all the virtues. Because without courage, you cannot practice any other virtue consistently. You can be kind for a while; you can be generous for a while; you can be just for a while, or merciful for a while, even loving for a while. But it is only with courage that you can be persistently and insistently kind and generous and fair.”

Confucius on Courage

“Wisdom, compassion, and courage are the three universally recognized moral qualities of men.”

Aristotle on Courage

“Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees the others.”

MLK Jr on Courage

“Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles…. If you can’t fly, run; if you can’t run, walk; if you can’t walk, crawl; but by all means keep moving.”