About Ifa/Orisa Readings

Ifa divination is a complex and highly structured system originating from the Yoruba people of Nigeria. It is centered around the figure of the Babalawo, a divination priest trained extensively in the knowledge and interpretation of the Odu Ifa. These 256 Odu (sometimes called signs or letters) are considered sacred oral records, each containing a corpus of verses, proverbs, stories, and moral teachings. During a divination session, the Babalawo uses sacred palm nuts (Ikin) or a divination chain (Opele) to cast patterns, which are then matched to one of the Odu Ifa. The process requires not only a deep understanding of the Odu but also an ability to interpret the signs within the context of the seeker's life, making it a highly specialized and revered practice. The person seeking consultation also has the opportunity to ask questions for the oracle after the Odu is interpreted.

Orisa (pronounced ori-sha) divination, closely related to Ifa, also involves communication with the Orisas, who are deified ancestors and natural forces with specific roles and attributes. Each Orisa governs different aspects of life and nature, such as Ogun, the force of iron and war, or Osun, the force of love and fresh water. This form of divination involves the use of cowrie shells in a practice called Merindinlogun, where the orientation of the shells provide answers from the Orisas. The intimate relationship between the devotee and the Orisa is central to this practice, emphasizing a personal and communal connection to the divine.

In both Ifa and Orisha divination, the emphasis is on a direct and ongoing relationship with the spiritual world, where the deities and ancestors actively participate in the guidance and well-being of the living. This contrasts with other forms of divination, such as tarot, which do not necessarily involve invoking specific deities or spirits. Instead, tarot relies more on the symbolic interpretation of cards and the reader's intuitive skills. While tarot can be deeply insightful and personalized, it lacks the structured religious and cultural framework that underpins Ifa and Orisa practices. The sacredness of the divination process in Ifa and Orisa traditions is rooted in centuries of protocol, communal knowledge, and discovery.

Ebo, a central practice in Ifa and Orisha divination, refers to the offerings or sacrifices made to appease the deities and ancestors, ensuring their favor and assistance. At the end of a divination session, the Babalawo or Olorisa priest will prescribe an ebo based on the guidance received from the Orisa. This can include offerings such as food, animals, money, or other symbolic items. The purpose of ebo is to address any imbalances or obstacles identified during the divination, seeking to restore harmony and align the seeker’s life with their destiny. By performing ebo, devotees demonstrate their respect and gratitude to the Orishas, reinforcing their connection to the spiritual world and showing their commitment to the guidance received. Ire (positive energies) will be secured and Ibi, or negative energy, will be reversed.

The process of performing ebo is a ritualistic act that requires precision and reverence. The items offered in the ebo are carefully selected based on the recommendations of the divination and the preferences of the Orisa. For example, an offering to Osun might include honey, camwood, and shea butter, reflecting her attributes and desires. The act of giving these offerings is accompanied by prayers and chants, invoking the presence and blessings of the Orisa. Through ebo, devotees seek to manifest the positive outcomes foretold in the divination, mitigate any negative influences, and maintain a harmonious relationship with the divine forces that govern their lives. Part of ebo is following the taboos of the particular Odu, which are discussed during the interpretation. It is always up to the client to make their own decisions about the recommendations and prescriptions given during consultation.

The Ebo cost is determined by the prices of the material goods indicated, and by the divinatory guidance of the oracle being consulted. It is a separate cost that only reimburses the priests conducting the ebo. When not performed by ourselves, ebo is performed in Nigeria by elders in our lineage. You will receive video confirmation (whenever possible) once your ebo is completed.

We conduct Ifa/Orisa readings over Zoom. Please bring notetaking materials with you to the consultation.