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​​​This week's Dafá (Ifá Oracle Divination) revealed Òtúrá-Bàrà (Òtúrá Ọ̀bàrà), an Odù that emphasizes the importance of observing Èèwò (taboos). Because the reading came with Ibi (off-path), it suggests the possibility of obstacles ahead—a period that may feel uneven or unpredictable. Under this sign, mindfulness is essential. You must watch your steps carefully.

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Èèwò must always be understood within the broader cosmology of Ifá. Before coming to Earth, each soul chooses its destiny (Àyànmọ́) in the presence of Olódùmarè (God). Yet upon birth, we forget the details of that sacred agreement. Divination serves as a reminder. When an Èèwò is prescribed, it identifies something that could interfere with the fulfillment of that chosen destiny. In this sense, taboos are not punishments—they are protective instructions. They function as spiritual safeguards, preserving alignment and supporting personal evolution.

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There is no need to fear an Èèwò. Fear usually arises from misunderstanding. If an Èèwò instructs you to avoid recreational drugs or alcohol, it may be because you are spiritually or temperamentally prone to excess, and what begins as indulgence could become difficult to control. Some taboos may appear unusual or disconnected from your present circumstances—such as being told not to wear black clothing. Yet what seems arbitrary may, in time, reveal its wisdom. Perhaps there is a future moment when visibility matters (e.g., walking along a dark road at night), or when subtle spiritual forces are at play. Even when the reason is not immediately clear, Ifá speaks from a vantage point beyond our limited awareness.

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More broadly, Èèwò can also refer to behaviors that quietly erode Ìwa-Pẹ̀lẹ̀ (good and gentle character). Cutting corners, speaking deceitfully, harboring resentment, or engaging in gossip may seem small, but they gradually pull us off course. Under Òtúrá-Bàrà, discipline and integrity are not optional—they are necessary protections for your destiny. In observing your Èèwò, you are not restricting your life; you are safeguarding it.

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Òtúrá appearing on the right leg of the Odù reveals the external energies at play—the circumstances we must confront and navigate. By nature, Òtúrá is a calm and peaceful sign, so where, then, does the tension arise? The challenge lies not in the environment itself, but in the risk of responding to it too forcefully, thereby disturbing the very peace Òtúrá seeks to maintain. The presence of Ibi (off-path) suggests that the imbalance emerges through our reaction.

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We must also remember that Ọ̀bàrà carries a fiery, passionate, and assertive current. While this energy can be powerful and productive, it must be handled with restraint. If left unchecked, it may come across as overbearing, confrontational, or excessive in the eyes of others. The left leg of the Odù reveals how we are inclined to respond—our instinctive reaction. Under Òtúrá-Bàrà, the lesson is clear: strength must be tempered with composure.

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Ìdígbè (Ìdí Ogbè) indicates that attaining "success" in our endeavors this week will require the conscious removal of obstacles that stand in our way. Progress will not happen passively. Something must be cleared—whether it is a habit, a distraction, stubbornness, a limiting belief, or an unresolved situation. For this reason, we call upon Èṣù to open our paths and prevent stagnation, especially since Ọ̀sá’dí (Ọ̀sá Ìdí) warns of the tendency to become stuck or entangled in complications. When movement feels blocked, it is often because something within us needs adjustment before the road ahead can unfold smoothly.

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The Ibi (off-path condition) was further revealed by Ogbè’Kànràn (Ogbè Ọ̀kànràn). Ọ̀kànràn, often interpreted as "that which flows from the heart" (ọkàn meaning heart), reminds us to examine our emotional state carefully. Unexpressed feelings, suppressed frustrations, or unresolved anger can quietly accumulate until they erupt, damaging relationships and hindering progress. Reacting impulsively—especially from a wounded ego—can provoke unnecessary confrontations and create new obstacles just as we are trying to remove old ones.

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Under this influence, emotional discipline is essential. Remain calm and measured. Pay attention not only to the words you choose, but also to the tone with which you deliver them. Success this week depends as much on self-control and composure as it does on action. When the heart is steady, the path opens.

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Please make the following Ebó (sacrifice/offering) to Èṣù.

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• Candy, as revealed by Ìdí Ògúndá, to help us be more playful, adventurous, and approachable.​

• Support our Ifá community efforts and learn more: Self-Study Course - Ifa Fundamentals

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

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Until next time, blessings to you all!​

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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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