Ijapa Tiroko

Ijapa Tiroko
Ijapa Tiroko: Hero of Yoruba Folktales

Monday 4 April 2011

THE GREATEST WEAPON...OLARONKE OLAJIDE

                                                        THE GREATEST WEAPON


I will never forget this story, which was the last tale, my father’s mother told me before she died. She said the story happened in the time, when the sky was so close to the ground, that the people of the earth wash their hands, with cloud of waters in the firmament.

The story happened in a village called Ayegunle. At this time, the village and its people were soaring high in traditional civilization. They were skilled in war, farming, hunting, etc. Ayegunle was well known for its giant buildings, walls and its ever flourishing water; which many believed, comes directly from the throne of grace. It was a land of peace, unity and security; and often people called it, “a land with milk and honey”! However, Ayegunle has a problem, and that was, the king does not have a male child as the custom demands, therefore, no heir to replace him.

Then one night, the king called his right hand man, and told him that he has an idea. The king commanded him to summon all the able men in his kingdom and its environs to his palace. They were to go on a difficult task, and any man that could accomplish this task would be rewarded abundantly. The king said, he would divide his possessions between himself and the man, half of his kingdom would also be given to him, and then, his only daughter would be married to such a man.

On the day that was scheduled for the task, the king’s yard was filled with men, both young and old. They were ready for this noble task that could have attracted such a great price. Then the king’s right hand man came forward and declared that any man who could cross the dreadful sea would get these prices. As soon as he said this, the place changed. Many of the old men drew back, with some young men. Then he continued this man must bring back the ancient white wood from the evil Island. But, before he could finish his words more men withdrew and the yard became scanty. They were disappointed and angry. Again, he continued this man would not take anything with him-no food, no weapon or charm. As soon as he mentioned this, all the men withdrew except one.

Surprised, the king’s right hand man moved closer, and asked the young man why he did not leave like the others. The rough, rugged and good looking young man answered and said he did not go back, because he has accomplished the difficult task in his mind. He has the picture of victory. But, the only difficult task was how to keep the picture alive. 

The king’s right hand man looked at the young man, and raised his hand as he addressed the spectators. He said this man action has revealed that many people are destined to succeed, but only few are determined. Many have failed before they started their life’s journey. The young man was able to succeed, because he won the greatest battle-the battle of the mind. He therefore declared him the king’s son- in- law.

That night, the old king died happily in his sleep, and Ayegunle continued to wax stronger.

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