Ụdara (African Star Apple): A Symbol of Procreation among Anambra-Igbo People

Abstract

This research centres on the meaning Anambra peolpe of South-Eastern Nigeria attribute to the African star apple ụdara as a symbol of progeny. So many fruits abound in Igbo land. African star apple ụdara on which this study centres is one of them. These fruits are known not only for their nutritious values but also as sacred fruits from sacred trees. Some of these sacred trees are almost extinct as a result of deforestation. Unfortunately, little or nothing is known about the few that are still in existence based on the change in the value system of Anambra people. For this change therefore ụdara is being mishandled. This study is to portray some cultural beliefs Anambra people have in African star apple especially as it regards procreation. Again, the study intends to create awareness on the mishandling of ụdara by modern Anambra people and let them know the implications of such mishandling. The theories of symbolic interactionism and social change were used for data analysis. This study is a descriptive and survey research. Data collection was by oral interview posed to randomly selected individuals from selected communities which were done at the interviewees conveniences and at different times. The interviewees’ responses formed the data for this study. They were therefore collected, translated, transcribed and analysed. Among the findings of the study is that African star apple is ‘progeny’, that is, it symbolizes procreation and fertility and originally not meant to be sold in the market. Another finding is that some communities presently sell it in their markets as a result of economic and social change in the modern society while some others still do not sell it. The study also revealed that as a sacred fruit from a sacred tree, it is revered as a source of blessing to the people. It is believed that the public, both old and young, students, especially culture students and all culturally minded researchers will benefit from this study as it reveals the views of Igbo communities on African star apple.