Jésù
The English name Jesus is translated into Yoruba as Jésù.
Jésù is the name used for the religious figure Jesus.
Meaning: religious figure (name)
Which one should you use?
The term Jésù is the standard name, while Oluwa Jesu translates to 'Lord Jesus'. For even more formal or liturgical contexts, the phrase Oluwa wa (Olorun wa) Jesu Kristi is used to mean 'Our Lord (Our God) Jesus Christ'. In more personal or informal settings, Jesu mi is used to mean 'My Jesus'.
When do people say it?
In Yoruba Christian communities, it is common to use various formal titles like Oluwa Jesu to show respect, while Jesu mi is used to express a close, personal relationship with the deity.
Did you know?
- The phrase Jésù is sometimes used as an exclamation of shock or distress, similar to how an English speaker might say 'Good Lord'.
- The word Oluwa in Oluwa Jésù is a versatile term for 'Lord' that is used both in Christian contexts and for traditional Yoruba deities.
- In Yoruba, the word 'Oluwa', often used alongside Jésù, is a common title for any person of high authority or a master, not just a deity.
Examples in context
- Kini oruko Oluwa Jesu ni ede Yoruba?What is the name of the Lord Jesus in Yoruba?
- Oruko Oluwa Jesu ni 'Oluwa Jesu' l'ede Yoruba.The name of the Lord Jesus in Yoruba is 'Oluwa Jesu.'
- Jésù jẹ́ Olúwa.Jesus is Lord.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their faith at home.
- OlumideTiti, ǹjẹ́ o mọ̀ nípa Jésù?Titi, do you know about Jesus?
- TitiBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, Olumide, mo gbà tírú.Yes, Olumide, I believe in him.
- OlumideÓ jẹ́ ìrètí fún gbogbo wa.He is the hope for all of us.
- TitiÒtítọ́ ni, ó ṣe rere fún wa.That is true, he does good for us.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “Jesus” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
