In Igbo spirituality, Uga Azi is known as The Age of Imbalance, Wickedness, Foolishness, and Unpure Truth. It represents the lowest point in human consciousness, a time when spiritual ignorance, greed, and moral decay ruled the world. For those walking the path of Odinani today, especially those leaning towards the higher consciousness of Uga Anwu (the Age of Enlightenment), it is very important to recognize and actively reject the harmful mental paradigms born from Uga Azi.

In this post, we’ve highlighted four toxic paradigms from Uga Azi that every modern Odinani practitioner must unlearn and guard against.

1. Materialism and Lies

Uga Azi was an era steeped in materialism and deceit. It twisted history, fueled greed, and made people chase wealth and possessions at all costs. For modern-day seekers, the lesson here is clear:

Be mindful of materialism. While abundance and comfort are not inherently negative, an insatiable hunger for more, at the expense of others or your own spiritual well-being, only ties you to the lower vibrations of Uga Azi. Strive for contentment and integrity, and recognize that true wealth will come from alignment with your Chi and purpose.

2. Patriarchy and the Suppression of the Feminine

One of Uga Azi's most dangerous legacies for Igbo people was the rise of patriarchy, which was embodied in the spirit called “Igwe-ka-Ala’ (The Sky Father is Greater Than the Earth Mother). This ideology disrupted the sacred balance between masculine and feminine energies, and has resulted in unfortunate chaos in some of our cultures and traditions as a people.

As a modern Odinani practitioner, you must reject any mindset that views the feminine as inferior. The universe operates in harmony between the masculine and feminine, and spiritual growth requires aligning with both energies within and around you. Nwanyi bu Alusi is a saying that exists in Igbo language for a good reason.

3. Colonization and Mental Slavery

Uga Azi ushered in violent systems like slavery and colonization, both within Africa and from external forces. These systems not only robbed people of their physical freedom but also sought to enslave their minds, disconnecting them from their roots and spiritual truths.

Today, unlearning the mental chains of colonization means decolonizing your thoughts, language, and spiritual practices. It means questioning inherited beliefs that do not serve your Chi or your community and actively seeking knowledge rooted in authentic Igbo traditions. Remember, freedom begins in the mind.

4. False Prophets and Spiritual Charlatans

The Age of Uga Azi also saw the rise of false prophets, those who claimed spiritual authority but used it to deceive, manipulate, and exploit others. These charlatans offer empty promises and fuel fear, typically for personal gain, rather than uplifting their communities.

As a practitioner of Odinani, it is important to develop spiritual discernment. Be cautious of those who speak of mystical powers but offer no wisdom, who demand blind loyalty without guiding you to know yourself and your Chi. True spiritual leadership is rooted in service, not self-glorification.

Moving Forward with Uga Anwu Consciousness

Recognizing these harmful paradigms is only the first step. The real work is in consciously rejecting them and aligning with the path of Uga Anwu—the Age of Enlightenment and higher spiritual awareness. We can all step closer to our true spiritual potential by unlearning these toxic mindsets and realigning ourself with the balanced, community-centered principles of Odinani.

Stay rooted in truth. Honor the balance of all energies. Uplift your community. And most importantly, listen to your Chi, it will always guide you back to your authentic path. Yagazie!