Ajogun and Elenini: Navigating Life’s Trials
The Yoruba philosophy of Ifá offers a profound framework for understanding the forces that influence human life – Among these forces, Ajogun and Elenini are critical concepts, representing external and internal challenges that shape an individual’s journey through the physical world (Ayé). While both Ajogun and Elenini are considered disruptive, their roles are distinct: Understanding these forces helps devotees […]
Myth Ose Meji: When the Land Cries to the Sea
The Myth: How to Tell the Sea We Are Drowning on Land? In the sacred Odu Ifá Ose Meji, there is a myth about a drought-stricken land and its desperate cry for relief from the ocean. Long ago, there was a village nestled in the heart of a fertile plain. The people lived in harmony with […]
Ògbè Wọ̀nrin: The Sage Without Children
Are Children a Must for a Fulfilling Life? In the sacred verses of Ògbè Wọ̀nrin, Ifá recounts the story of a wise and accomplished man named Olófinré, who was beloved in his community for his intelligence, generosity, and deep spiritual insight. Despite his many blessings, Olófinré carried a heavy burden—he was childless. In a society […]
Exploring Honor and Survival: The Moral Dilemma of Two Hunters in Ifá Mythology
THE TALE OF THE TWO HUNTERS: A STORY OF SURVIVAL AND HONOR In a deep, sprawling forest, two hunters, one young and the other old, ventured in search of game. They were skilled with their weapons and often struck their targets, yet capturing the wounded animals proved elusive. Each time they struck an elephant, it […]
The Mystical Power of Eggs in Iyá Mi Osorongá Worship
THE EGG: A SYMBOL OF FERTILITY IN RITUAL AND MYTH Within the rich tapestry of Ifá tradition, the egg occupies a central role as a potent symbol of fertility, intricately woven into the fabric of purification rituals, initiation ceremonies, Borí, and Èbós for both propitiation and defense. This emblem of life is not only pivotal […]
Mystery of Creation and Abundance: The Egg in Orishá Traditions
ABOUT THE EGG IN ORISHÁ IFÁ TRADITIONS In the rich tapestry of the Orishá traditions, including Santería, Candomblé, Palo, Umbanda, Vodou and others, symbols carry the weight of history, wisdom, and the sacred. Among these, the egg, in its simplicity and profundity, plays a pivotal role. This newsletter explores the egg’s significance, the myths that […]
Destiny vs. Character: The Yoruba Myth That Reveals the Key to Your Potential
THE TALE OF ORI-ÒDE AND ORI-INÚ Deep within the wisdom of the Yoruba tradition lies a timeless tale about the intertwining of destiny and character. It’s a story that teaches us that while destiny sets our potential, it’s our inner character that determines whether we truly reach it. So, let’s dive into this fascinating myth […]
Fortune’s Path: A Tale of Luck and Destiny
A TALE ABOUT LUCK AND DESTINY FROM THE SACRED CORPUS OF ODU IFÁ IROSUN IWORI In the realm of inspiring stories, “Fortune’s Path” from the Sacred Odu Ifá Irosun Iwori stands as a testament to the power of faith and the mysterious ways in which fortune unfolds. This captivating tale begins with a man besieged […]