Oral Text in Cultural and Natural Context: Riddles among the Walisoo Liiban Oromo

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