The Akan people of Ghana have a rich spiritual tradition that centers around a powerful triad of deities: Nyame, Nyankopon, and Odomankoma. Among these, Odomankoma stands out as the omnipotent creator of all things, the divine craftsman who shaped the visible world, bringing life, structure, and order to the universe. Together with Nyame, who represents the revolving universe, and Nyankopon, the life-giving force (Kra), Odomankoma completes the sacred triad that governs existence in Akan cosmology.
Odomankoma is often associated with symbols of creation, such as the spider (Ananse), which represents wisdom and creativity, and the vulture, which symbolizes his connection to the sky and the heavens.
According to Akan tradition, Odomankoma began his work by creating water, the primordial ocean. From this vast expanse, he lifted up the heavens and set down the earth, establishing the foundation of the world. After creating the basic structure of the universe, he brought forth other forms of life: mankind, animals, and the countless powers that govern both the seen and unseen worlds. To bring order to the cosmos, Odomankoma established the seven-day week, assigning each day to be ruled by a planet.
Odomankoma also created death (Owuo). However, this act had profound consequences. After creating death, Odomankoma was killed by his own creation. This event reflects the Akan understanding of the cyclical nature of life and death, where creation and destruction are intertwined.
After his death, Odomankoma entrusted his affairs to Nyame and Nyankopon, the other members of the divine triad. However, through his power, Odomankoma was able to bring himself back to life. He now lives on through Nyankopon, who became his personality and representative. This transition is encapsulated in the Akan saying, “Onyankopon onye Odomankoma sunsum” (“Nyankopon is Odomankoma’s spirit”). This means that while Odomankoma’s physical form may have perished, his essence and creative power continue to influence the world through Nyankopon.
One of Odomankoma’s most celebrated roles is that of Borebore, the divine architect or craftsman. This title emphasizes his skill and intelligence in designing the world. As Borebore, Odomankoma is not only the creator of physical structures but also the source of wisdom and order. His work reflects the Akan belief in a universe that is carefully planned and balanced, where every element has a purpose.
