TIME IN TRADITIONAL IGBO PHILOSOPHY AND CONTEMPORARY DYNAMICS

Abstract

Time is a universal phenomenon. Regional conceptualizations stem from socio-cultural perspectives and perceptions. Regional concretizations of specificities with reference to Time frames underscore the uniqueness of the apprehension of the concept in given geo-cultural contexts, epochs, and, or peoples and their orientations. The Igbo of South Eastern Nigeria related closely to Time and apprehended the concept in a natural and unique way. Such relationship was based on commonsensical empiricism, care and utility. Igbo idea of Time is closely associated with the people's idea of nature and again their activities and programs within the operations of the phenomenon that is nature. Pristine Igbo society, loved and cared for nature, observed it and converted the end results of such observations to the service of her needs. Nature in its broadness and proximity was the thematic for continual understudy and appreciation of whatever value is from this empirical and existential encounter. In this work, effort was made to analyze and synthesize where necessary the realities in the pristine Igbo conception of Time. The work puts emphasis on the examination of the meaning of Time, highlighting its fundamental role in ushering in the two paradigms of peace and development as the Igbo strives for social, cultural and economic cohesion. A critical look at the project, again a paradigm shift in ethno-philosophical considerations, to which this work subscribes, brought the work to its logical conclusion.