Abstract
The historical
influence of Arabic language and Islamic culture on Yoruba identity and Islamic
heritage in Yorubaland is a multifaceted narrative that underscores centuries
of cultural exchange and integration. Dating back to the 9th century, Arabic
traders and scholars traversed trans-Saharan trade routes, bringing with them
not only goods but also Islam and its accompanying linguistic and cultural
elements to the Yoruba people in present-day Nigeria, Benin, and Togo. The
impact of Arabic on the Yoruba language is evident in the adoption of Arabic
loanwords, particularly in domains related to religion, commerce, and
administration. This linguistic fusion reflects the synthesis of Islamic and
indigenous Yoruba beliefs and practices, contributing to the formation of a
distinct Yoruba Islamic identity. Moreover, Islamic culture permeated various
aspects of Yoruba society, influencing architecture, dress, cuisine, and social
norms. The spread of Islamic education through Quranic schools, known as
"Makaranta," facilitated the transmission of Arabic literacy and
religious knowledge, further embedding Islamic values within Yoruba
communities. The intertwining of Arabic language and Islamic culture with
Yoruba identity also shaped the region's artistic expressions, including
calligraphy, music, and literature. Notably, Islamic scholars like Sheikh Adam
Abdullah Al-Ilory played pivotal roles in promoting Islamic scholarship and
cultural preservation among the Yoruba. Despite periods of colonial rule and
external pressures, the resilience of Yoruba Islamic heritage endures, serving
as a testament to the enduring legacy of Arabic language and Islamic culture in
shaping Yoruba identity. This abstract encapsulates the rich historical
tapestry of interaction between Arabic language, Islamic culture, and Yoruba
identity, highlighting the ongoing significance of this dynamic exchange in
contemporary Yorubaland.
DOI: 10.36349/yajoall.2024.v08i01.021
author/ Dr. Busari Kehinde Kamorudeen
journal/YAJOALL | Vol. 8, Issue 1 | 271-279
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K9G6WS789VU-6JkFt92PpwRC_de73Nb4/view?usp=sharing
