The Calabar people, also known as Efik-Ibibio, are an ethnic group located in the southern part of Nigeria, particularly in Cross River State. They have a rich cultural heritage and a deep spiritual connection with their beliefs and traditions. The Calabar language, which is a dialect of the Efik-Ibibio language, contains various names that refer to the Supreme Being, whom they worship and hold in high regard. These names reflect the Calabar people’s reverence for God and their understanding of His attributes and nature. In this article, we will explore a comprehensive list of names of God in the Calabar language.
Names of God in Calabar Language
1. Abasi
“Abasi” is the most commonly used name for God in the Calabar language. It serves as the generic term for the Supreme Being and is used in everyday conversations when referring to God. It signifies the Calabar people’s acknowledgment of the divine presence and their reliance on God’s guidance and protection in all aspects of life.
2. Abasiakara
“Abasiakara” means “God the Creator.” It highlights the Calabar people’s understanding of God as the ultimate creator of the universe and everything within it. They attribute the beauty and complexity of creation to God’s wisdom and power. This name symbolizes their recognition of God’s authority as the creator and their gratitude for His wondrous works.
3. Abasiama
“Abasiama” translates to “God the Great.” It emphasizes the Calabar people’s belief in God’s greatness and supremacy. They view God as the highest authority and the source of all power and wisdom. This name signifies their awe and reverence for God’s greatness and their submission to His divine authority.
4. Abasiubong
“Abasiubong” means “God the Savior.” It reflects the Calabar people’s belief that God is their savior, the one who rescues and delivers them from bondage and sin. They attribute their salvation and redemption to God’s grace and mercy. This name signifies their reliance on God’s saving power and their gratitude for His redemptive work.
5. Abasinyene
“Abasinyene” translates to “God the Provider.” It highlights the Calabar people’s understanding of God as the ultimate provider of all things necessary for sustenance. They recognize that their daily provisions, such as food, shelter, and clothing, come from God’s benevolence. This name serves as a reminder for the Calabar people to be grateful for God’s provision and to trust in His continued care.
6. Abasieye
“Abasieye” means “God the Eternal.” It emphasizes the Calabar people’s belief in God’s eternality and immutability. They view God as existing outside the constraints of time and space, and His love and faithfulness endure forever. This name serves as a reminder of God’s everlasting presence and His unchanging nature.
7. Abasiong
“Abasiong” signifies “God the Faithful.” It reflects the Calabar people’s belief in God’s faithfulness and trustworthiness. They rely on God’s unwavering commitment to His promises and His constant presence in their lives. This name serves as a reminder for the Calabar people to trust in God’s faithfulness and to remain steadfast in their faith.
8. Abasiudo
“Abasiudo” translates to “God the Righteous.” It highlights the Calabar people’s understanding of God’s righteousness and justice. They believe that God is holy and free from any form of wrongdoing. This name underscores their reverence for God’s righteousness and their aspiration to live in accordance with His divine principles.
