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Ifá Oracle Divination (Dafá) for the next two weeks:

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Image caption: A woman praying, calling upon her ancestors for blessings, protection, and guidance. In Ifá tradition, as in many cultures, honoring one's ancestors is a sacred and fundamental practice. "We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us."

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Dafá (Ifá Oracle Divination) has revealed Ìká Ògúndá with Iré (good fortune), an Odù that emphasizes the importance of not living in fear. This Odù teaches us to own our truth—embracing who we are as individuals without suppressing our uniqueness and carrying ourselves with confidence. It is infused with the energy of Ògún, the warrior Òrìṣà who embodies truth and integrity, and who will carve a new path for you when none exists.

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Understanding the Energy of Ìká Ògúndá:

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On the right leg of the Odù, we have Ìká, which represents the power of the spoken word, including affirmations and intentions that shape our future. When aligned with Iré (on the path of our destiny), Ìká empowers us to assert ourselves positively, influence others, and even gain popularity and recognition. However, if we find ourselves in Ibi (off-path), we risk misusing our words—becoming argumentative, judgmental, and creating discord. Ìká is symbolic of pointing, a gesture that can invite conflict. Ifá also warns against self-sabotage—what are you telling yourself? Harsh self-criticism and unforgiveness can diminish self-worth, acting as a form of self-hexing.

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On the left leg of the Odù, we have Ògúndá, which carries the unwavering truth-seeking energy of Ògún. Ògún demands that we act with integrity, remain truthful, make an effort, and uphold good character in all that we do.

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The Key Lesson:

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The essence of Ìká Ògúndá is learning to love yourself and others without judgment. Each of us has a unique destiny to fulfill, and looking down on others whose paths differ from ours can invite misfortune; we don’t advance our destinies by inhibiting others. This Odù also speaks to the connection between our mindset, truth, and overall well-being—reminding us that the way we treat ourselves directly impacts our health and vitality, so be kind to yourself, forgive yourself from making mistakes and learn from them.

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There’s much animosity and divisiveness around us that can negatively influence us; resist the temptation to engage in this, bringing others down. Observe, and when necessary, stand up for yourself and for those that are more vulnerable.

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Ìdí Ògúndá revealed that we should work with our ancestors, who wish for us to learn from their lives—their successes as well as their struggles. It is through their efforts that you exist today. As you honor them in your ancestral practice, remember that they were not perfect; they lived according to their character and the challenges of their time, doing the best they could. Reflect on their experiences—what wisdom can you gain? They do not want you to repeat their mistakes but to grow from them.

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If you hold any resentment toward your ancestors, understand that in spirit, they are no longer the same individuals that they were in life. If they disappointed you in any way, consider offering forgiveness. Healing these ancestral ties brings peace not only to them but also to you. Through ancestral veneration, we elevate them to a higher spiritual realm, allowing them to better guide and support us in return.

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A typical Ancestor prayer is performed as follows:

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1. Opening Invocation:

Say, “A júbà o” (we honor you) or “Mo júbà o” (I honor you), and address your departed ancestors directly: “I call on you” (state their names three times).​

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2. Offering Water and Light:

Sprinkle some water in front of the shrine, saying, “May this water refresh you.” Light a white candle and say, “May this light illuminate your path.” If you have a small bell, ring it gently as a sign of reverence and attention.

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3. Presenting the Offering:

Offer your Ebó (sacrificial offering), saying, “I bring this humble offering in gratitude, for I would not be here without you.”

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4. Seeking Guidance:

Ask for their blessings: “Please bless me with your wisdom and guide me on my path.” At this point, share your specific concerns or requests, addressing the ancestors with sincerity.

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5. Closing Reflection:

Sit quietly in contemplation, allowing yourself to connect with their presence and receive any intuitive guidance.

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Tradition for Potency:

To enhance the potency of your prayers, it is customary to perform Ancestor Worship consistently for several days at the same time, creating a rhythm of devotion and connection.

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Note: If you're interested in researching your ancestors, try this free service: familysearch.org

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Please make the following Ebó (sacrifice/offering) to your Ancestors.​

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• Tea, as revealed by ÈjìOgbè (also known as Ogbè Mejì).

• Honey, as revealed by Òtúrá-Oríkọ̀ (also known as Òtúrá Ogbè). Add the honey to the tea.

• Cookies, as revealed by Ọ̀sá’Gbè (also known as Ọ̀sá Ogbè).​​​​

 

A final note: There will be a solar eclipse on March 29th. While these are natural celestial events, they can disrupt the natural flow of energies, creating ripples that linger for weeks and even months. Because of this, eclipses are considered inauspicious times for major undertakings or important decisions. Refrain from looking at them or being exposed to them. It is also beneficial to fast around this time, then use black soap to cleanse yourself and purify your Orí afterward.

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If you must be outdoors during the eclipses, it is recommended that you protect your Orí by covering your head with a white or light-colored cloth or hat, as the Orí is highly susceptible to energy disturbances. Remember that your Orí is the essence of your soul’s purpose, requiring clarity and light to guide you on your path. Shielding it during unsettled times helps maintain equilibrium and alignment amidst the energetic shifts. The Sun is the life-giving energy that nature depends on. You may observe that animals become quiet and even hide during the eclipse.

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Until next time, blessings to you all!​

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General Reminder: When making any Ebó (offerings), always offer a taste to Èṣù first, who is the divine messenger and takes your prayers and offerings to their destination.

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Às̩e̩

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Blessings! … Oluwo Ifájuyìtán

"We talk to God through prayer; we listen through meditation."

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