Yoruba Language: A Non-Verbal Type of Communication | The Guardian Nigeria Information

Yoruba Aroko, A non-verbal type of communication is as outdated because the Yorubas have identified since time immemorial.

The Yoruba is understood for its wide selection of gorgeous heritage, amidst this we name 'Proverbs, Idiomatic Expressions, also referred to as Aroko.

AROKO emerges as an interesting non-verbal semiotic system, which weaves complicated messages by symbolic objects. Allow us to delve into the eloquent expressions embedded within the silent dialogue of Yoruba Àrokò.

The large hidden messages helped enhance the circulate of communication and convey messages that you just don't need anybody else to know. But it’s a part of what makes the Yoruba individuals who they’re.

Let's delve into a number of the most used and well known.

PÁKÒ (chewing stick): Love revealed
Receiving a chewing stick from the other intercourse goes past oral hygiene: it whispers the profound phrases “I LOVE YOU” within the language of indicators, creating an unstated connection.

ORANGE: Enjoyable and affection
The trade of an orange means pleasure and affection. Whether or not given immediately or by an middleman, it communicates pleasure and approval, presumably indicating a deeper emotional connection.

ÌYARUN/ÒÒYÀ (Kam): Untangling the threads of relationships
Along with its every day use for hair care, a comb in Yoruba Àrokò additionally serves as a coded message. Sending a comb to a distant recipient signifies the unraveling of a friendship or the tip of a love affair.

ẸNÍ (Mat): the silent indicator of sickness
A bit of matrafia, particularly of the ore kind, speaks volumes concerning the recipient's family. Its arrival signifies an unstated concern for the well-being of somebody who’s sick and visibly skinny.

PRODUCT/SHOPPING: Celebrating new beginnings
Receiving a part of a fabric with which to tie a child heralds a joyful event. It conveys the message that the pregnant girl left behind has efficiently given delivery and marks the start of a brand new chapter.

An empty gourd: a critical warning
An empty gourd, a parrot egg or a cranium despatched to a king sends a chilling message. It symbolizes the dissatisfaction of the folks and urges the ruler to replicate on his actions. Custom warns that this gesture suggests the consideration of a drastic measure.

Cowrie shells: shaping concord and discord
Cowrie shells, with their multifaceted meanings, navigate the spectrum of feelings. Two linked shells going through one another point out settlement and concord, whereas their backs turned talk discord and disagreement. The quantity and association of cowries reveal nuanced expressions, embodying custom and emotion.

ÌRÙKẸ̀RẸ̀ (Flywhisk / Horsetail): Bridging monarchs in silent dialogue
Sending an Ìrùkẹ̀rẹ̀, embellished with cowrie shells, from one monarch to a different transcends mere symbolism. It’s a plea for settlement, a gesture of solidarity or a sleek farewell – binding royal figures in an unstated alliance.

Gun or gunpowder: echoes of battle
In Yoruba tradition, a method of communication with gravitas, gun or gunpowder, signifies battle or conflict between states or cities. It’s a clear warning, prompting the receiving social gathering to brace for impending hostilities.

IYỌ̀ (salt): cherishing peace within the midst of pressure
In distinction to the ominous tone of gunpowder, salt turns into an envoy of peace. Sending salt or honey implies a need for concord, solidarity and tranquility between the cities or events concerned.

Deciphering the silent language
The Yoruba Àrokò intricately reveals the profound meanings embedded in seemingly peculiar objects. It’s a silent language that transcends phrases, resonates by generations and preserves the cultural nuances of the Yoruba folks.