The 7 Stages of Death, 9 Stages of Dying, and the 9 Realms of Òrun
Introduction
In Yoruba cosmology, death is not an end but a transformation—an intricate journey marked by stages and realms that reflect the soul’s evolution. The concepts of the 7 stages of death, the 9 stages of dying, and the 9 realms of Òrun form a comprehensive map of this spiritual voyage. At the heart of this process is Oyá, the dynamic Orisha of winds and cemeteries, who guides the souls of the deceased through their transition. Known as Yànsàáń, “She Who Separates and Guides,” Oyá wields immense power over death and the afterlife, bridging the material and spiritual worlds.
This blog explores these profound teachings, emphasizing the stages of death and dying, the spiritual roles of Oyá and other Orishas, and the symbolic significance of the nine dimensions of Òrun.
The 7 Stages of Death
The 7 stages of death are physical transformations the body undergoes, reflecting the departure of life and the onset of decay. These stages are universal yet deeply symbolic in Yoruba spirituality:
- Pallor Mortis: The skin loses its color, symbolizing the first separation of the spirit from the body.
- Algor Mortis: The body cools, signifying the cessation of life’s warmth.
- Rigor Mortis: The stiffening of muscles mirrors the rigidity of mortality.
- Livor Mortis: Discoloration occurs as blood settles, symbolizing the release of earthly attachments.
- Putrefaction: The body begins to decay, marking the transition to the elements.
- Decomposition: Further breakdown of the body mirrors the transformation of the physical into the spiritual.
- Skeletonization: The final reduction to bones, representing the eternal essence left behind.
These stages parallel symbolic deaths in life, such as personal transformation, renewal, and spiritual awakening.
The 9 Stages of Dying
In Yoruba belief, the process of dying involves distinct spiritual and ritual transitions:
- The Deathbed (Leito de Morte): The soul begins its departure as loved ones gather.
- The Wake (Velório): Prayers and rituals commence, honoring the spirit.
- Path to the Cemetery (Caminho do Cemitério): The soul journeys towards its final rites.
- Cemetery Gate (Porta do Cemitério): The threshold between life and the afterlife, presided over by Oyá.
- Path to the Grave (Caminho da Sepultura): A sacred journey symbolizing surrender to fate.
- The Burial (Sepultura): The body returns to the earth, completing its earthly cycle.
- Funeral Rites (Ritos Fúnebres): Rituals ensure the soul’s peaceful transition.
- Dispelling Burdens (Despacho do Carrego): Ritual acts remove lingering negative energies.
- Path to Òrun (Caminho para Òrun): The soul is guided by Oyá to one of the nine realms.
Each stage is accompanied by prayers, chants, and rituals to honor the soul and assist its transition.
The 9 Realms of Òrun
The Yoruba cosmology divides the afterlife into nine distinct realms (Òrun), reflecting the moral and spiritual evolution of souls. Oyá, as Yànsàáń, determines the placement of each soul:
- Òrun Apáàdí: For the irredeemable, likened to broken vessels incapable of holding divine light.
- Òrun Burúkú: A realm for the dishonest and chaotic, where souls face correction.
- Òrun Afẹ́fẹ́: A space for those who balanced good and evil, preparing for possible reincarnation.
- Òrun Àsòlú: A realm where divine judgment separates the pure from the impure.
- Òrun Rere: A peaceful realm for those who fostered health, harmony, and kindness.
- Òrun Fúnfún: For the spiritually pure who inspired others towards enlightenment.
- Òrun Àlàáfíà: A tranquil space of deep peace and contentment.
- Òrun Bàbá/Iyá Ènìà: Reserved for caregivers, protectors, and those who selflessly served humanity.
- Òrun Marè: The highest realm, where perfected souls unite with Olódùmarè, the Supreme Creator.
These realms emphasize the moral consequences of earthly actions and the continuous evolution of the soul.
The Role of Oyá in Death and Transition
Oyá’s dynamic energy permeates every stage of death and transition. Her titles and attributes reflect her multifaceted role:
- Yànsàáń: „She Who Separates and Guides“ emphasizes Oyá’s authority to direct souls to their appropriate realms in Òrun.
- Ọyà Gbálè: „She Who Sweeps“ refers to her role in cleansing negative energies and facilitating peaceful transitions.
- Qyà: A name signifying her swift and decisive nature, as she „tears“ through obstacles and barriers.
Oyá is not only the guardian of the cemetery but also a master of transformation. She uses her irukèrè (buffalo tail whisk) to calm restless spirits and dispel negativity. Her presence ensures that the dead find their rightful place, whether through reincarnation (Àtúnwá) or eternal rest.
Myths of Oyá and Ikú
One myth illustrates Oyá’s victory over Ikú (Death):
Ikú sought to marry Oyá, who initially resisted his advances. To win her, Ikú offered a pact to Olódùmarè, promising to guide a devout Egúngún priest, Aworṣàsá, to the Supreme Creator. However, Ikú’s deception led to a betrayal of the priest. Oyá intervened, exposing Ikú’s plan and saving Aworṣàsá. As a result, Olódùmarè granted Oyá dominion over Ikú, empowering her to guide souls and control the forces of death.
Rituals and Teachings of Oyá
Oyá’s rituals emphasize courage, transformation, and alignment with destiny. Key practices include:
- Àjèjé (Seven-Day Mourning Ritual): Oyá’s creation to guide souls and calm mourners, symbolizing separation and renewal.
- Irukèrè Use: Wielded to clear negative energies and aid the soul’s transition.
- Ogun’s Forge: Oyá’s role in Ogun’s metalwork symbolizes the interconnectedness of life, death, and renewal.
Oyá’s teachings remind devotees to embrace change, confront fears, and honor the cycle of life and death.
Conclusion: The Eternal Journey
The Yoruba cosmology of death, dying, and the afterlife offers profound insights into life’s ultimate transition. Oyá, as Yànsàáń, exemplifies the courage and grace required to navigate these stages. Her role as the guide of souls underscores the transformative power of death as a gateway to spiritual evolution.
For devotees in the diaspora, understanding these teachings deepens the connection to ancestral wisdom and provides a framework for embracing life’s inevitable transformations.
As the Odu Ifá Ẹjìlògbòn teaches:
„Death is not the end but the seed of new beginnings. Embrace the wind, for it carries the soul to its destiny.“
May the winds of Oyá guide us, and the wisdom of Ifá sustain us. Ase!
BLOG recommendation: The mystery of death on Substack of DAILY IFÁ-