Question 40
BECE_MODEL_QUESTIONS_VOL1
•
2020
•
YORUBA_L1
•
objective
In Yoruba naming ceremonies, a ceremonial staff called "Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀" is often presented. Explain the significance of this staff, citing its symbolic meanings and the role it plays during the rite.
Answer Options
A.
The Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀ represents wealth, the prosperity of the household and the community's agricultural success. During the naming rite it is placed beside the infant's cradle, the priest taps it to signal abundance, and the staff is later displayed in the village square as a symbol of communal wealth.
Correct Answer
B.
The Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀ symbolizes authority, the continuity of the family line and the blessings of the ancestors. During the naming rite it is presented to the newborn's family, the priest waves it to invoke protection and blessings, and the staff is later kept as a family heirloom, linking the child to his heritage.
C.
The Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀ signifies the child's future profession, the mastery of craftsmanship and the guidance of the local guilds. In the naming ceremony the elder hands it to the mother, the priest strikes it to announce the child's destined trade, and the staff is then kept in the family's workshop.
D.
The Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀ denotes the child's health, the balance of the four elements and the protection from illness. At the naming ceremony the staff is wrapped around the baby's swaddling cloth, the priest whispers prayers over it, and afterwards it is buried beneath the family's threshold to guard against disease.
Correct Answer
B
Correct Option:
The Ọ̀pá ìbílẹ̀ symbolizes authority, the continuity of the family line and the blessings of the ancestors. During the naming rite it is presented to the newborn's family, the priest waves it to invoke protection and blessings, and the staff is later kept as a family heirloom, linking the child to his heritage.
About This Question
This is
Bece Model Questions Vol1
2020
Yoruba L1
Question 40.
It is one of the
objective
questions from the
2020
Bece Model Questions Vol1
Yoruba L1
examination.
Difficulty level:
Medium
.