STAGES OF THE ILE 

 

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*The stages of the Ile correspond to three levels of practitioners: The Aborisha, the Initiate, and the Priest*

 

Stage 1: Aborisha (pre-initiation)

 

It involves taking the initial steps into the path and is marked by receiving Isefa (One hand of Orunmila with Esu Odara) and/or Ile Ori and completing the fundamentals of Inner Ifá courses. The Aborisha-level ceremonies and curriculum help establish the necessary foundation of spiritual integration for taking more serious steps into the path of Ifa and act as pre-initiation training for those aspiring to initiate into either Orisha and/or Ifa.  

 

Stage 2: Initiation

 

The initiation stage offers two paths: 

 

• The path of the Olorisha

• Marked by undergoing Orisa initiation 

• The path of the Omo Awo

• Marked by undergoing Ifa initiation (Itefa)

 

Upon initiating into either Orisa or Ifa, the initiate undergoes a process of learning and development designed to strengthen their understanding and connection with the energy corresponding to their initiation, thus laying the foundation for becoming a priest. This stage lasts a minimum of one year.

 

Stage 3: Priesthood

 

This stage involves cultivating a certain degree of mastery and development with the core teachings and knowledge offered to Olorisha and Omo Awo. After a minimum of one year of post-initiation training and upon demonstrating mastery in both knowledge (theory), practice (internal methodologies), and procedure (priestly duties), the initiate will be granted the title of priest within the Ile. 

 

• Those initiated into Orisa can earn Babalorisha or Iyalorisha status.

• Those initiated into Ifa can earn Babalawo or Iyanifa status.