The Origin of “Iyawo”, the Yoruba Word for Wife
Amongst the Yoruba people of Western Nigeria, the word “Aya” which translates to wife is underused when compared to “Iyawo” the widely used and accepted word for wife in Yorubaland. Interestingly, the use of ”Iyawo” has extended to other members of the Nigerian society. In some areas, particularly in the West, Iyawo has been used to refer to a new bride.
Early in the history of the Yoruba people, the word Iyawo was neither known nor included in the language of the tribe until an interesting event in Iwo town brought about its coinage and usage. Today’s Saturday Small Chops unveil the origin of the commonly used word, “iyawo”.
In the ancient Yorubaland, Wuraola, a very beautiful princess and daughter of the first king of Iwo town was in the quest for a patient, tolerant and endearing partner. As it were during the ancient times, energetic and hardworking suitors, the likes of Sango and Ogun travelled to Iwo town to propose marriage to Wuraola. Disappointedly, they were neither blessed with Wuraola nor granted a friendly engagement with her.
According to Yoruba history, Wuraola would dish out doses of unfriendly gestures and intolerable behaviours to all her suitors, which made them leave angrily on the day of their arrival.
Soon, Orunmila, a Yoruba historical figure and a good looking man also travelled to Iwo town to seek Wuraola’s hand in marriage. Before setting out for his journey, he consulted with Olodumare, the supreme being in the Yoruba Kingdom.
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Olodumare gave Orunmila some instructions including revealing that he must be patient to win the heart of Wuraola. On arriving at the palace of the king, he wasn’t greeted warmly by Wuraola. Orunmila returned this gesture with a smile and kind words and presented gifts to the king. Unbelievably, he stayed in Iwo for several days despite the princess’ unwelcoming character.
However, on the sixth day, the king gave Wuraola in marriage to the patient Orunmila after being convinced that he is the right fit as shown in his virtues.
All the while, Wuraola’s unfriendly gestures were merely planned to test her suitors and provide her with a warming, gentle and patient match. History recorded that Wuraola was a lovely, caring and well-mannered lady who simply wanted a good husband to herself.
Orunmila who left Iwo on the seventh day with an endearing and bright wife to himself was glad he followed the instructions of Olodumare. He was welcomed and praised by his people for his well-deserved achievement.
When asked about his wife Wuraola, Orunmila would respond, “Iya ti mo je ni Iwo” meaning – my sufferings in Iwo. Shortly in history, the word was coined to “Iya-Iwo” and wives were later called Iyawo.
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