An evaluation of ikpu alu in Igboland in the light of the Old Testament Yom Kippur in Leviticus 16

Ikenna L. Umeanolue

Abstract


Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) in Leviticus 16 is rich in
typology with ikpu alu (expiatory sacrifice) in Igboland. Thus,
this paper is an evaluation of ikpu alu in Igboland in the light of
the Old Testament idea of atonement especially in the Jewish
annual event of Yom Kippur in Leviticus 16. Alu is an act of
misdeed that is totally abhorred by the Igbo community. It brings
calamity upon the defaulter. For the offender to regain the favour
of the spiritual beings, he/she must offer expiatory sacrifice
called ikpu alu. The event of the Day of Atonement in Leviticus
16, when the sins of the Israelites were washed away, and they
became reconciled with God, gives much insight to the study of
ikpu alu. After the sacrifice of ikpu alu and the event of the Day of
Atonement, the offender and the community have a sense of
newness and joy. Hence, the end result of the sacrifice of ikpu alu
and the Day of Atonement is reconciliation towards God and
neighbours. This ensures peace, love and growth of the
community.

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