Osun Osogbo grove: the divinisation of water and the contestation of its history

Research reveals that the divinisation of water in Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove reflects humanity's desire to connect with the supernatural, addressing challenges beyond natural solutions. This study highlights the transformative impact of sacredness on human lives and destinies, emphasizing the grove's role as a hub for over one hundred shrines and sculptures. It explores the interconnectedness between religion and water, demonstrating that adherents believe the supernatural can inhabit nature and engage in dialogue through yearly rituals. The research approach examines the contestation of history within the grove, focusing on its religious significance and the cultural practices surrounding it.

Afolabi, O. O. (2021). Osun Osogbo grove: the divinisation of water and the contestation of its history. Culture and Religion, 22(4), 364–378. https://doi.org/10.1080/14755610.2023.2281369