Ember months
| Observed by | Nigerians |
|---|---|
| Type | Cultural, religious, social |
| Significance | The last four months of the year, marked by various festivities, activities, expectations, and anxieties |
| Begins | 1 September |
| Ends | 31 December |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Related to | Christmas, New Year's Day, Harmattan |
The Ember months are the last four months of the year (September, October, November, and December). The term is a neologism specific to Nigerians, derived from the common suffix '-ember' in the names of these months.[1] The Ember months are regarded as special seasons that are associated with various cultural, religious, social, and economic phenomena.[2]
Characteristics[edit]
The Ember months are characterised by a number of features that distinguish them from other periods of the year. Some of these features are:
- Festivities: The Ember months are marked by several festivities that celebrate various religious and cultural occasions, such as Independence Day, Eid al-Mawlid, and Christmas. These festivities often involve travelling, visiting relatives and friends, exchanging gifts, feasting, and merry-making.[2]
- Activities: The Ember months are also a time of increased activities, especially in the areas of commerce, agriculture, education, and entertainment. Many traders and businessmen take advantage of the high demand for goods and services during this period to boost their sales and profits.[2] Many farmers also harvest their crops and sell them at favourable prices.[3] Many students also prepare for their examinations and graduation ceremonies.[4] Many entertainers also organise shows and events to attract large audiences.[5]
- Expectations: The Ember months are also a time of high expectations and hopes for many Nigerians. Many people set goals and make plans for the end of the year and the beginning of the new year. Many people also look forward to receiving bonuses, promotions, rewards, or recognition for their work or achievements.[2] Many people also anticipate spending quality time with their loved ones or fulfilling their dreams or desires.[6]
- Anxieties: The Ember months are also a time of increased anxieties and fears for many Nigerians. Many people face various challenges and difficulties during this period, such as financial stress, social pressure, health issues, or security threats.[2] Many people also worry about the possibility of accidents, disasters, or tragedies that may occur during this period. Some people also attribute the Ember months to supernatural or mystical forces that may cause harm or misfortune.[7]
Origins and usage[edit]
The term 'Ember months' may have originated from the English word 'ember', which means 'a small piece of burning or glowing coal or wood in a dying fire'.[8] This may imply that the Ember months are a time of fading or ending of the year.
The term 'Ember months' is widely used by Nigerians in various contexts, such as media, education, religion, business, and government. The term is often used to raise awareness, caution, or encouragement for Nigerians during this period.[2][7] The term is also used to describe or explain various phenomena or events that occur during this period.[9] The term is also used to express or convey various emotions or sentiments that Nigerians feel during this period.[6]
References[edit]
- ^ "Ember Months". Lexico. Oxford University Press. Retrieved 16 October 2023.[permanent dead link]
- ^ a b c d e f "Welcome to the Ember months". Businessday NG. 5 September 2022. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ "Ember Months: Farmers harvesting more crops in Nasarawa". Vanguard. 29 November 2020. Retrieved 15 October 2021.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "NECO releases timetable for 2021 exams". Premium Times. 6 August 2021. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ "The biggest Nigerian concerts of the decade". Pulse NG. 30 December 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2023.[permanent dead link]
- ^ a b "Ember month guidelines and how e go affect travel for Nigeria". BBC News Pidgin. 2 September 2019. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ a b "Unravelling the ember months' myth". The Guardian. 29 September 2018. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ "Ember". Lexico. Oxford University Press. Archived from the original on 27 April 2022. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ "Why Nigerians are scared during this period of the year". Pulse NG. 12 December 2017. Retrieved 16 October 2023.