Edo religion
I can explain how some of the Edo's religious beliefs are visible in their artwork.
Edo religion
I can explain how some of the Edo's religious beliefs are visible in their artwork.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Some of the objects held by the British Museum can tell us about the Edo's religious beliefs.
- One brass statue is a head, decorated with animals, that was used during worship of the god Osun.
- Osun was the Edo god of medicine and magic and was believed to command the animals of the rainforest.
- The head represents how the Oba was believed to have magic powers like the gods; the birds represent prophesy.
- The snakes represent Osun's soldiers and the Oba's ability to use magic to destroy his enemies.
Keywords
Deity - a deity is a god, goddess or supernatural being that some people worship and believe in
Prophecy - a prophecy is a prediction of the future
Common misconception
The Oba in Edo society was merely a religious figure.
While the Oba did have significant religious functions and was seen as having a special connection to the divine, his role also extended to that of political leader, responsible for governance, justice, and maintaining order within the kingdom.
To help you plan your year 6 history lesson on: Edo religion, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 history lesson on: Edo religion, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 history lessons from the Benin: Why have people argued about the Benin Bronzes? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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