Irreechaa: A Celebration of Thanksgiving, Unity, and Humanity

With the Irreechaa celebration upon us, the airwaves and digital media platforms are, as expected, buzzing with discussions about this revered occasion. Unfortunately, the familiar refrain of detractors attempting to vilify the celebration also resurfaces. Their criticisms seem perennial and unyielding, like shouting into a void. Yet, it’s ironic because Irreechaa has only grown in prominence and popularity over the years, gaining recognition far beyond the Oromo community. It may well become a globally recognized celebration in the not-so-distant future.

But I’ll leave that broader discussion for another time. My purpose here is not to engage in an endless back-and-forth with detractors. Instead, I wish to contribute to improving the signal-to-noise ratio on a few key points that have surfaced in recent debates. I aim to clarify, not rebuke, and to straighten out some common misconceptions regarding Irreechaa—particularly around its religious significance and certain misunderstood customs. Below are my two cents.

Irreechaa is not a Religion!

Irreechaa is a celebration of thanksgiving, not a religious practice. To put it in perspective, consider Mawlid, which commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Similarly, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Neither Mawlid nor Christmas is a religion in itself; they are celebrations rooted in religious tradition. Irreechaa, too, is a Thanksgiving celebration that, in fact, predates Christianity and Islam.

If we must attribute any religious connection to it, it would be with Waaqeffannaa, the traditional belief system of the Oromo people that acknowledges Waaqa (God) as omnipotent and abstract. This universality of the Oromo belief system, which lacks rigid representations or images, is often misunderstood. For example, the term Waaqaa Gurracaa—loosely translated as "Black God"—has deeper connotations of the Abstract, Metaphysical, and Mystical, or Unknown, rather than just a colour reference. It signifies what lies beyond human comprehension.

Therefore, Irreechaa stands as an all-encompassing Thanksgiving celebration with a universal essence because it is the Thanksgiving of Waaqayyo or God. As such, it transcends religious boundaries and embraces people of all faiths who wish to express gratitude for nature’s abundance, the passage of seasons, and the arrival of spring’s renewal. Everyone, regardless of their religion, can participate in this universal celebration of life and abundance.

Buttering the Tree is Not an Act of Worship

One point of contention has been the custom of buttering a tree during Irreechaa, albeit practised by a small number of people. Detractors seize upon this act to malign the celebration as if it signifies worship of nature or evil deities. This view is not only a misinterpretation but also an overreaction.

I have watched many interviews with utter astonishment where Oromo intellectuals are put on the defensive. My blunt response to those detractors who question the practice of "buttering the tree" is: so what? Why does it bother you? Does buttering the trees have any bearing or impact on other religious beliefs or faiths? People may simply be expressing gratitude to a gracious tree that once sheltered them from a stormy winter. The symbol may have originated in such circumstances and then flourished over time.

Let’s put things into perspective. Sacred trees and natural sites are not unique to Oromo culture. In Hinduism, for instance, cows are considered sacred animals. Should we ridicule or disdain this belief? Certainly not. Many cultures across the world view trees, rivers, and other natural elements as symbolic of higher spiritual or metaphysical truths. It does not mean these objects are worshipped in place of God.

Even the Christmas tree, an enduring symbol in Western culture, has roots in ancient pagan practices where evergreens were revered for symbolizing eternal life during winter’s dormancy. Today, the Christmas tree represents various layers of meaning shaped by centuries of tradition and folklore. Yet, one does not hear detractors arguing against its symbolism. So why pick it on Oromo Irreechaa?

Similarly, the act of buttering a tree during Irreechaa is simply an expression of gratitude for nature’s sustenance and protection. It’s a gesture of appreciation, not idolatry. For those who partake in it, it is a symbolic way to thank the very nature that shielded them from the harshness of winter and brought them into the warmth of spring.

Irreechaa: A Celebration for All Humanity

Irreechaa embodies peace, unity, and thanksgiving in its purest form. It is not only a celebration of nature’s renewal but a reflection of human interconnectedness and shared joy. It is a moment to appreciate the cyclical rhythm of life and the blessings we receive. Those who attend and participate in Irreechaa, regardless of their cultural or religious background, will find it to be a testament to humanity’s universal desire to connect, give thanks, and celebrate together.

Irreechaa is, and always will be, a celebration that invites all to partake in its spirit of joy and unity. As the world becomes more interconnected, Irreechaa’s message of thanksgiving and harmony may well inspire people far beyond its place of origin. So why not join the celebration and be part of a tradition that elevates our shared human experience?

Happy Irreechaa! Let’s celebrate together!