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KOMPAN ADEPA SHRINE STRUCTURE
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- KWABENA BENA - A family god from the Tano River
- Obosomfoo and Okomfo -
A matrilineal priest who is chosen by the family or family god to service. Obosomfoo can only
possess the god when the shrine is placed on his head. When the god does not have to be carried
in order to be possessed, this person is called Okomfo.
Okomfo can be male or female, and can possess the god any time or place.
- Abusua Panyin - Family elder who is always consulted before any major decision is made, this
person can be either male or female and speaks on the behalf of everyone. Functions as custodian of
the god and acts as coordinator between Chiefs and the Obosomfoo.
- Okyeame - The mediator between the public and priest or god. The Okyeame know all
the rules, protocols, taboos and regulations of the shrine. Is always present when any activity surrounds
the shrine and is versed in the language of the god. The Okyeame is normally in the service of
one Okomfo but can be employed by other priests. Some gods act as Okyeame for
others.
- Obaa Panyin - Elder female who is consulted to settles disputes. The Obaa Panyin
assists the Soodofo, feeds the ancestors, conducts soul purifications and nominates candidate for
Queenmother.
- Obrafo - A person who acts like a policeman maintaining law and order, paving the way for the
Obosomfoo and god. He sings appellations to stimulate and motivate the god. When a
god acts as such he is called Obosommerafoo punishing offenders and witches.
- Sanahene - Chief treasurer
- Asokwahene/Kyeremah - Chief drummer who understand and supervise all Okom drummers.
- Soodofo - Supervise the feeding of the ancestors and soul purification. The
Obaa Panyin can assist the soodofo. The lead cook for the god and supervisor of all cooking associated with rituals.
- Dwontofoo - Lead singer and supervisor for all singers around the shrine.
- Ahenkwa - Chief servant or helper for the god can assist putting the god on the head of the
priest.
- Pigahene - Chief person responsible for putting the god on the head and putting medicines and
nsuman on the priest. Carries all umbrellas, drums etc.
- Sumankwa - This person in a limited capacity takes the role of the priest when feeding nsuman
that eats the taboos of the priest.
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