Why Benin Royalties Cover their Mouths

I know you have always wondered why Benin royalties cover their mouths. Please oh, it is not because their mouths are smelling. Our royals are able to buy toothpaste, thank you very much.

Anyway, in this article, I will let you know why they actually do that. There are four reasons why Benin royalties cover their mouths, namely:

The “Badassery” of the Oba

According to tradition, commoners like you and I are not supposed to see the teeth of the Oba while he is talking because we don’t deserve that privilege. Also, the Oba is the supreme authority and whatever he says is final. Simply put, the Oba is not one to shine teeth. Can your monarch ever?

Special Dining Etiquette

The Oba must not eat in public and no one must see him chewing because he is different from other people. Being the person that he is, the Oba cannot be seen eating in public and since that somehow ties to his covering his mouth, it is possible some snacking is going on behind his covered mouth.

The Queens Too

The Oba’s wives and Iyobas follow suit as a sign of submission, respect and contentment. I must admit that they is something really stylish about covering mouths. It really sets you apart from the commoners. Edo brides now use the handkerchief as part of the full traditional attire. No wonder some people have refused to retire the nose masks, hmmm.

The Ultimate Authority of Benin

Another reason why Benin royalties cover their mouths, especially the Oba, is that he doesn’t want to speak. People talk on behalf of the Oba most of the time and whatever they proclaim, becomes the law with immediate effect. Forget the governor, once the Oba says something, it becomes law.

So those are four reasons why Benin royalties cover their mouths, do you know any other? Do you think that is something you might begin to do? Comment below.