An Africological reassessment of black–red–white triune symbolism in ancient African worldmaking: insights from the Oromo <i>Faajjii</i>

Red–white–black tricolor symbolism is among the most widespread and symbolically charged motifs of the ancient world. Despite multidisciplinary attention, its origin, meaning and functions remain unresolved. This study examines Faajjii, the Oromo triune black–red–white emblem central to Irreecha rituals, using Africology as metatheory and a critical qualitative framework. Data were gathered through interviews with elders renowned for their oral histories and symbolic interpretations, and fieldnotes of ritual songs, narratives, visuals and performances. A multidisciplinary qualitative analysis revealed linguistic, historical, semiotic and philosophical themes highlighting systematic triadic word–image–meaning relations and abstract functions rooted in ancient world-making traditions. Comparative analysis with other African societies’ color systems shows Faajjii as a complex symbolism interwoven with African spirituality and social philosophy, pointing to directions for future research.