The Dual Nature of Akaraka (Aka Naabo)
In Igbo thought, when we talk about Akaraka, we're talking about destiny. But there’s a deeper, more layered understanding of this term, and it starts with breaking down the root words.
Akaraka is made up of Aka + Aka, a term known in Afa (divination) as Aka Naabo (that is Aka appearing twice over), which generally refers to “Igbanje” meaning to go on a journey, or “Ndi njem (Ogbanje)” meaning one chosen to go on a journey, or traveling spirits on a mission.
Aka itself in Afa mainly refers to “Ije” or “Njem” meaning “Journey” in English language.
What We Can Learn from Aka Aka
In this context, Aka Naabo is associated with the idea of Igbanje or Ndi Ijem, souls who have chosen to go on a journey. They are Ndi na-agba nje, traveling spirits, incarnating with a mission to fulfill in the physical world. This understanding immediately tells us something powerful:
Destiny, in the Igbo view, is not random. It is a soul-level agreement. A decision. An undertaken spiritual mission.
So from the moment a soul chooses to enter this world, Akaraka, that roadmap of destiny, kicks off. But here's where it gets really interesting 👇🏾.
The Two Paths of Akaraka: Fate and Faith
The wisdom we can discern from the divine design of Akaraka is contained in its dual nature. It’s two defining factors symbolize the two forces at play in every human life:
Fate (what is fixed)
Faith (what is possible)
Fate is the non-negotiable part of your destiny. It’s the reason your soul came here. This could be a specific gift you're meant to share, a role you're meant to play, or a type of work you’re meant to do. It is unchangeable, and no matter how far you run, it will keep showing up in your life in different ways until you return to it.
Faith, on the other hand, is where free will comes in. It's the open field of possibilities, how you choose to walk your path, the decisions you make, and the actions you take to fulfill your purpose. You are not a puppet to fate. You have the freedom to shape your journey through your choices.
This duality is the beauty of Akaraka:
You have a destination, but you’re trusted with the steering wheel.
Why This Matters
Gaining perspective of this dual nature of Akaraka offers us something many of us don’t realize we need: freedom with responsibility.
You’re not just drifting in life without direction —> you have a purpose.
But you’re also not chained to a rigid script—> you have the power to shape how that purpose is fulfilled.
It helps us let go of helplessness ("everything is fixed") and also prevents us from falling into total recklessness ("nothing matters"). It teaches balance.
Final Thoughts
Akaraka reminds us that destiny is both (pre)designed and dynamic. You came here for a reason, don’t ever doubt that. But how you carry out that reason? That’s the dance between your fate and your faith. Between the roadmap and the driver. Between spirit and choice.
So the next time you think about your destiny, remember the two paths of Akaraka. One holds the promise of your divine assignment, the other holds the choices you make every single day to get to your destiny.
Nwanne, your journey matters, so walk it with awareness. Yagazie!
