Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́
The English phrase "God abeg" can be expressed in Yoruba as Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́.
Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́ is used as an exclamation of distress, desperation or as a sincere plea for divine intervention during difficult times.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Ọlọ́run (God) and jọ̀wọ́ (please/I beg you).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Lagos Yoruba, one may hear the phrase Olorun, jọ.
Did you know?
- In traditional Yoruba cosmology, Ọlọ́run refers specifically to the 'Owner of the Heavens', making the phrase a request to the supreme authority of the universe rather than just a generic deity.
- While jọ̀wọ́ means 'please', its root implies 'joining hands', suggesting a physical gesture of unity or submission during a plea.
- Yoruba speakers may use Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́ as a rhetorical exclamation of shock or disbelief, similar to how an English speaker might say 'Good Lord!' without actually praying.
Examples in context
- Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́, ẹ kọ́ mi ní ọ̀nà.God please, teach me the way.
- Ọlọ́run jọ̀wọ́, jẹ́ kí n rí ìrànlọ́wọ́.God please, let me find help.
Example conversation
Olumide and Folake are praying during a difficult time.
- OlumideỌlọ́run jọ̀wọ́, mú ìṣẹ́ wa dé.God please, let our work arrive.
- FolakeÀmín, Olumide. Ẹ̀mí wa ní nìyẹn.Amen, Olumide. That is our life.
- OlumideMo mọ̀ pé Ọlọ́run yóò gbọ́.I know that God will hear.
- FolakeÓ jẹ́ bẹ́ẹ̀, mo gbà gbọ́.It is so, I believe it.
