ABSTRACT
Our consideration of Igbo cosmology should be prefaced with a reiteration of the initial premise to the main study: the blurred image of the woman in writings on the Igbo is due mainly to inadequate interpretation of their belief system; that is, their religion. Religion as used in this context designates whatever gives meaning and sense of direction to human social life. It has both a vertical and a horizontal direction, giving meaning and understanding to past history, to present reality and to the ‘transcendent’ nature of human beings for the individual and society, for the individual’s belief is set in his or her society. It is our conviction that the belief system, more than the rules of social organization, depicts clearly the true place of the woman in Igbo society. One might even assert that there is traditionally high regard for women.
