What is the role of ancestors in indigenous African religions?

In indigenous African religions, ancestors hold a central and respected role. They are believed to maintain a vital connection with the living world, acting as intermediaries between the divine and the earthly realm. This relationship is characterized by veneration, where the living often honor their ancestors through rituals, offerings, and ceremonies aimed at seeking their guidance, protection, and blessings.

The reverence for ancestors is rooted in the belief that they continue to exist in a spiritual form, influencing the lives of their descendants. This influence is not limited to any specific age group; rather, all members of the community, regardless of their age, may seek the counsel or assistance of their ancestors. The veneration also fosters a sense of identity and continuity within the community, reinforcing cultural values and traditions across generations.

In contrast to this understanding, the options that suggest ancestors are ignored, only guide the elderly, or have no influence on the living undermine the significant role that ancestors play in preserving cultural heritage and spiritual practices within indigenous African belief systems.