Sacralizing the Gyil : Myth and Ritual in Dagara Culture

Abstract

In the Dagara society of north-west Ghana, the gyil stands out as the principal musical instrument. Its revered place in Dagara culture is deeply rooted in its mythical origins. This article explores the profound connection between the instrument’s myth and the rituals that accompany the construction of a new gyil. The article underscores the crucial role of this myth in elevating the gyil to a sacred emblem in the Dagara cultural ethos. It is essential to understand that this sacredness is not a vague or detached idea. It is actualized and continually echoed through specific ceremonies carried out after crafting the instrument. Such ceremonies infuse the gyil with a symbolic depth that transcends its tangible structure, shaping its roles and symbolic connotations in the wider Dagara societal framework. In sum, the intertwined relationship of myth and rituals sanctifies the gyil, amplifying its importance and enriching its cultural significance within society.

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