In Igbo traditions, night time is considered as a sacred yet unpredictable time—one where the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds becomes thinner. While daytime belongs to the living, the night is believed to be the domain of spirits, including malevolent forces and wandering souls. Because of this, certain activities are discouraged after dark to preserve good energy and avoid inviting unwanted spiritual influences.

Here are six things you should never do at night:

1. Sweeping the Home at Night

Sweeping after sunset—especially with a traditional broom made from palm fronds—is strongly discouraged. It is believed that doing so sweeps away prosperity, good fortune, and even ancestral blessings. Some also believe it can drive away protective spirits residing in the home, leaving it vulnerable to negative forces. If you must clean up, it's best to wait until morning.

2. Sharpening Knives at Night

Sharpening knives or blades at night is thought to attract aggression and misfortune. In some Igbo traditions, it symbolizes an invitation for conflict or harm, as spirits may interpret the act as preparing for violence. It is best to keep sharp objects untouched after dark.

3. Whistling at Night

Whistling in the night is believed to call upon wandering spirits, including mischievous and malevolent entities. In many communities, people are warned that spirits may respond to the sound, entering the home or following the whistler. To avoid unwanted supernatural attention, it's best not to whistle after dark.

4. Cutting Nails at Night

Trimming nails at night is associated with bad luck, and in some cases, even shortened lifespan. Some elders warn that cutting nails at night might weaken one's spiritual protection, making the person more vulnerable to harm.

5. Telling Your Dreams at Night

It is advised to keep your dreams to yourself until daylight. Speaking about dreams at night, especially when it's still dark, is believed to distort their meaning or prevent them from manifesting as they should. Morning is the best time to share and interpret dreams with clarity and without unwelcome spiritual interference.

6. Calling Out Someone’s Name Loudly at Night

Shouting a person’s name in the dark is strongly discouraged. It is believed that idle spirits may hear the name and attempt to interfere with the person’s destiny. In some cases, it is said that repeatedly calling someone’s name at night can hinder their growth or progress in life. If you must get someone’s attention, it is better to use a softer or more direct approach.

Concluding Thoughts

These taboos and superstitions serve as reminders to be mindful of our energy and actions, especially during a time when we are more spiritually vulnerable. Whether or not you believe in spirits, it is generally understood that honoring these traditions helps maintain a sense of harmony and respect for the unseen forces that shape our world and communities.

So, as the night falls, be intentional about what you do—and just as importantly, what you don’t do.

Udo!