Twins hold a special place in Yoruba culture. Called Ìbejì, they are treated as a double blessing, and the Yoruba are widely noted for having one of the highest rates of twin births in the world. This guide explains the names, beliefs and traditions that surround Yoruba twins.
Taiwo and Kehinde: The Names of Twins
Yoruba twins have traditional names that reflect birth order. The first twin to be born is called Taiwo (also Taye or Taiye), meaning “the one who tastes the world”, and the second is Kehinde, meaning “the one who comes after”. Tradition says the elder sends the younger out to see whether the world is good. The child born after twins is often called Idowu and the next Alaba. Explore more names in our list of Yoruba baby names.
The Ìbejì Tradition and Ere Ibeji Figures
Twins are believed to have a close spiritual bond. When a twin dies, families traditionally carve a small wooden figure called ère ìbejì. The figure is cared for, washed and dressed as if it were the living child, so that the surviving twin stays protected. These carvings are admired in museums worldwide; see where to view Yoruba art in our guides to the Ife National Museum and the Yemisi Shyllon Museum.
Igbo-Ora: The Twin Capital
The town of Igbo-Ora in Oyo State is often called the “twin capital of the world” because of its high number of twin births, and it hosts a yearly twins festival. Some people credit local diet, but researchers have not settled the cause. Read more at Wikipedia’s Igbo-Ora page.
Twins and the Orisha
Twins are linked to the orisha Ìbejì and to Ṣàngó, who is regarded as their protector. For the wider belief system, see Yoruba religion explained.
Naming and Celebrating Twins
Twins receive their names at the naming ceremony (Isomoloruko), a joyful family event. For more on family values, read about Yoruba culture.
Yoruba Twins FAQs
What are the Yoruba names for twins?
The first twin is Taiwo (Taye) and the second is Kehinde.
What is an Ere Ibeji?
It is a carved figure made to honour a twin who has died.
Why is Igbo-Ora famous?
It is known for an unusually high rate of twin births and a yearly twins festival.
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