Abstract:
This article dealt with riddles among the Walisoo Liiban Oromo. It aims at
exploring the role of riddles in enhancing the observational, normative, memory,
intellectual and entertainment skills in social and natural environments of the
Waliso Oromo. Ethnographic methods of data gathering were employed in
generating relevant data from primary and secondary sources. Interpretive
approach was used to analyze data. The analysis showed that riddles among the
Walisoo Liiban involve both social and natural phenomena. The items of riddles
are presented mostly enigmatically and symbolically in line with the value system of
the people and the physical character of the area. Riddles also involve analogy
based on similarities in size, shape, color, structure, co-existence, status, and the
like. Riddles are one of the mechanisms commonly used to instruct young people the
knowledge of the nature, morals, the social behavior, and virtue essential for their
future social success. The study concluded that riddles are still being used in
educating children to have a good understanding of their social and physical
environments. They are also adapted to the changing world. The study indicated
the importance of contextualizing and accommodating riddles in school curriculum
to make education affordable and enjoyable
