What is the Difference Between “Izu Igbo” and “Izu Uka”?

Igbo LanguageIgbo Calendar
Written By Sloane Angelou

Igbo people have a unique way of counting time, centered around our traditional calendar system. In Igbo cosmology, time is measured in market days, forming what is known as Izu Igbo—the Igbo week. However, due to external influences, particularly from Western education and religion, another system of counting weeks, known as Izu Uka—the seven day Gregorian week, also became common. But what exactly is the difference between the two?

The Traditional Igbo Week

The Igbo week, or Izu Igbo, consists of just four days, which are the market days:

  • Eke

  • Orie

  • Afo

  • Nkwo

These four days repeat in a continuous cycle, forming the foundation of traditional Igbo life. Market activities, rituals, festivals, and even personal events like naming ceremonies and traditional marriages are mostly scheduled based on these market days.

When you hear someone mention "Izu" or "Izu Igbo", they are referring to this four-day cycle.

What is Izu Uka?

When the Europeans arrived, they introduced Christianity, Western education, and the Gregorian calendar. This calendar follows a seven-day week:

  • Sunday

  • Monday

  • Tuesday

  • Wednesday

  • Thursday

  • Friday

  • Saturday

Igbo people adopted this system and named it Izu Uka. The name comes from Ubochi Uka, meaning "church day" or "Sunday." Since the English week starts on Sunday, the entire seven-day system was referred to as Izu Uka—literally, "church week."

Key Differences Between Izu Igbo and Izu Uka

  • Izu Igbo

    • Number of Days: 4 (Eke, Orie, Afo, Nkwo).

    • Origin: Indigenous to Igbo culture.

    • Uses: Market days, commerce, rituals, and ceremonies.

    • Starting Point: Eke market day—it’s a continuous cycle.

  • Izu Uka

    • Number of Days: 7 (Sunday to Saturday).

    • Origin: Introduced by Europeans.

    • Uses: General activities based on the modern calendar.

    • Starting Point: Typically starts on Sunday.

Why Does This Matter?

Understanding Izu Igbo is important for reconnecting with Igbo traditions. Many aspects of Igbo spirituality, agriculture, and commerce are still based on this four-day cycle. At the same time, Izu Uka is now widely used for general life planning, schooling, and work.

Both systems exist side by side, but Izu Igbo remains an important part of Igbo identity. If you're learning about Igbo traditions or practicing Odinani or even learning Igbo language, it helps to know both!

Did you grow up hearing about Izu Igbo or Izu Uka? Share your thoughts in the comments!

 
 
Sloane Angelou

Sloane Angelou is a multifaceted strategist, storyteller, and writer with a deep passion for exploring the nuances of human existence through the lens of human experiences.

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