Frequently asked questions

Ifá is the sacred divination system of Yoruba spirituality, based on the teachings of Òrúnmìlà, the Orisha of wisdom and knowledge. It provides spiritual guidance, offering insights into a person’s destiny (Ọ̀rìṣà) and the best way to navigate life’s challenges. The Ifá corpus, known as the Odù Ifá, contains thousands of verses (ese Ifá) that offer wisdom, philosophy, and guidance.

The Orisha are divine forces or deities that serve as intermediaries between humans and Olódùmarè. Each Orisha governs different aspects of nature and human experience. For example, Ṣàngó represents justice and thunder, Ọ̀ṣun embodies love and fertility, and Ògún governs technology and war. Worshippers seek their guidance through prayers, rituals, and offerings.

Ifa divination is a complex system used to gain insight into past, present, and future events. It involves casting sacred palm nuts or a divining chain and interpreting the resulting patterns according to the 256 Odu (sacred verses) of Ifa. Trained priests called Babalawos perform this divination.

Ase (also spelled Ashe or Axé) is a concept in Yoruba spirituality that represents the life force, energy, or power that runs through all things. It is believed to be the power to make things happen and create change in the world.

Ori literally means "head" in Yoruba, but spiritually it represents one's personal destiny or life purpose. It is considered the seat of consciousness and the connection to the divine. Nurturing and aligning with one's Ori is crucial for spiritual growth and fulfillment.

No, Ifá and Yoruba religion are not forms of witchcraft or black magic. They are traditional African spiritual systems centered on wisdom, balance, and ethical living. Western misconceptions have often misrepresented African spiritual traditions due to colonialism and religious bias.

Misconceptions arise from colonial-era propaganda, which sought to discredit African spiritual systems and replace them with Abrahamic religions. Nollywood and mainstream media have also portrayed African religions as sinister, reinforcing stereotypes. In reality, Ifa spirituality emphasizes harmony, destiny, and moral responsibility.

Many people integrate Ifa spirituality with their existing religious beliefs. Some Christians and Muslims in Africa and the diaspora honor their ancestors or consult Ifá for guidance while maintaining their faith. Ifa spirituality is a way of life rather than an exclusive religious doctrine.

Ifá divination helps individuals understand their life path, overcome obstacles, and receive guidance from the divine. A trained Babaláwo (male priest) or Ìyánìfá (female priestess) interprets the messages of Ifá and prescribes solutions for challenges.