The word ‘Cowrie’ comes from Hindi कौडि (kaudi), from Tamil கவடி (“kavadi”), which has its origins in Sanskrit कपर्द (kaparda).

Cowrie or cowry is the common name for a group of small to large sea snails, marine gastropod mollusks in the family Cypraeidae

Shells of certain species have historically been used as currency in several parts of the world, as well as being used, in the past and present, very extensively in jewelry, and for other decorative and ceremonial purposes.

The cowrie was the shell most widely used nationwide as shell money. It is most abundant in the Indian Ocean and was collected in the Maldive Islands, in Sri Lanka, along the Indian Malabar coast, in Borneo, and on other East Indian islands, in Maluku in the Pacific, and in various parts of the African coast from Ras Hafun to Mozambique. Cowrie shell money was important in the trade networks of Africa, South Asia, and East Asia.

The shells of cowries are usually smooth and shiny and more or less egg-shaped.

What Does Cowries Symbolize?
For thousands of years, people associate seashells with love and fertility. Some also believe they represent the safe journey between the physical and spiritual world. But the truth is, there are different meanings attached to these old sea creatures’ “homes”.

In African legend, a love of cowrie shells shows that you could be family to an ocean spirit of wealth and earth. It also represents the Goddess of protection in the ocean. In Nigeria and other parts of the country, the cowrie symbolized destiny and prosperity.

A powerful point to note is that cowries aren’t evil like religions ignorantly portray them. During the pre-colonial era, they were used as money.

The shells are known to bring good luck and protect the spirit of the wearer, and many tribes use them in spiritual ceremonies. They also are a sign of femininity and fertility, with women often wearing them not only to help them conceive but to help them give birth safely.

Cowrie shells contain multiple meanings and uses. These are commonly shown up in the form of jewelry and money.  They are being used in almost every part of the country. However, these shells gained tremendous popularity through trade during pre-colonial Nigeria.

Traditionally, these shells contain a specific meaning and history. Nonetheless, there are still various people all around the country who are unaware of the spiritual meaning and use of cowrie shells. Because of this people more often misinterpret the cowrie shell meaning and misunderstood the facts about them. As cowrie shells are not just meant to be a mare fashion, therefore, people need to understand the cowrie shells’ meaning and importance in the best possible way.

Some people believe a shell’s hard texture makes one’s mind stronger. That is why cowrie shells stand for a resilient and determined mindset. It also represents protection against evil spirits.

Similarly, others believe shells are a bridge between the physical and the supernatural realm. This belief comes from Shell’s close relationship with water and water spirits.

Whether you have a shell in your home or see it in your dreams, it will signify different things. Spiritualists, for example, claim that dreaming about shells represents spiritual connection. Their presence in your home, however, means something entirely different.

Cowrie shells symbolize the following in Nigerian culture;

Protection of your home: having it in your house is a potent shielding power that keeps evil and negativity at bay.
Defiant to pressure: seashells are strong and defiant against the mightiness of the ocean. Therefore, possessing a seashell symbolizes a strong mindset that resists pressure.
Spirituality: dreaming that you hold a seashell indicates your spirit is trying to communicate with the universe.
Immortality: shells are symbolic of eternal life. They also symbolize a component of man that endures even after death.

The Cowrie’s Spiritual Meaning
When it comes to the religious meaning of cowrie shells, it varies a lot depending on the religion and spiritual practices, and the symbolism differs.

Cowrie shells can also serve as a conduit for spiritual concepts to enter the human mind. Depending on the person, or the situation, shells might be a lucky charm.

The following are seven (7) things that Cowrie shells symbolize from a spiritual perspective.

1. Oceanic wealth & power
2. Femininity & fertility
3. Protection
4. Abundance & good fortune
5. Magical Power & good luck
6. Love
7. Creation & manifestation

Significance Of Cowrie Shells In The Nigerian Culture

• Monetary use
• Ritual use
• Jewelry
• Games and gambling
• Children teaching aid

Summary
The cowrie shell has many uses and meanings. It has been used as money in many cultures. They are popular for jewelry, and religious accessories all over the country. For many people today, cowrie shells make fascinating jewelry and decorations. Whether in jewelry or in crafts, cowrie shells add the exotic feel of Nigeria.

The post The Significance Of Cowrie Shells In Nigeria appeared first on Every Nigerian.