Well, let me tell you about Amma, the high god of the Dogon people. I first came across this fascinating deity during my travels in West Africa. The Dogon people, who reside primarily in Mali, have a rich and complex religious system, and at the center of it all is Amma, also known as Amen.
Amma is considered the supreme creator god in Dogon mythology. He is believed to have brought the world into existence through a process of creation and transformation. The Dogon people see Amma as the one who formed the Earth and all its inhabitants, including humans. He is associated with the sun and is sometimes depicted as a serpent or a chameleon.
What makes Amma intriguing is that the concept of a creator god named Amma or Amen can be found in the religious traditions of other West African and North African groups as well. This suggests a shared belief system or cultural exchange in ancient times.
The Dogon people believe that Amma created the world by breaking up a cosmic egg. From this egg, he brought forth the sun, the moon, the stars, and all the elements of nature. He then shaped the earth and populated it with plants, animals, and eventually humans.
Amma is often seen as a benevolent and loving god, but he is also known for being distant and somewhat detached from the affairs of humans. The Dogon people believe that he created the world and then withdrew, leaving it to function according to natural laws. They see him as a powerful force that can be both unpredictable and uncontrollable.
In Dogon religious ceremonies and rituals, Amma is often invoked and praised. The Dogon people believe that by connecting with Amma, they can tap into his creative energy and bring balance and harmony to their lives. They offer prayers and sacrifices to honor him and seek his guidance.
It is worth noting that the Dogon religious system is complex and encompasses a wide range of deities and spirits. Amma is just one aspect of this intricate belief system, but he holds a central and significant role as the supreme creator god.
Amma, or Amen, is the high god of the Dogon people. He is revered as the creator of the world and all its inhabitants, including humans. The Dogon people believe that connecting with Amma brings them closer to the divine and helps them find balance and harmony in their lives.