Eshu, the Keeper of Words and the Power of Silence in Ifá Tradition
Harnessing the Balance of Speech and Silence through the Wisdom of Eshu in Ifá
Dear devotees of Ifá and the Orishá,
We often reflect on the deeper meaning of words and their impact on our spiritual journey. Today, let us begin with a quote from the Odu Ifá, Ogbe Yonu:
"Eni ti o ni òrò̀ ni, kò gbọ́dọ̀ máa sọ gbogbo rẹ̀."
“He who possesses knowledge does not reveal all that he knows.”
This ancient wisdom reminds us that true power lies not only in what we say but also in what we withhold. It brings to mind the Yoruba deity Eshu, the master of communication and messenger of the gods, whose role is deeply intertwined with the mysteries of language, understanding, and the consequences of speech.
Much like the Western philosopher Wittgenstein, who famously said, “Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent,” Eshu’s presence in Ifá teachings emphasizes the balance between the spoken word and the silence that guards it. In both Ifá and Wittgenstein’s philosophy, there is a recognition that words are not merely tools of communication—they are forces of creation, capable of transforming our realities. Let us explore how Eshu governs the power of words and what happens when silence is the wiser choice.
Eshu: The Guardian of the Crossroads of Speech
Eshu, or Elegbara, is often called the trickster, but more profoundly, he is the guardian of choices, especially those made with our words. He stands at the crossroads of all communication, ensuring that every word spoken carries weight, intention, and consequence. In the Odu Ifá Ose Meji, we learn of the time when Eshu was tasked with delivering a message from one Orishá to another. He deliberately altered a few key words in the message, which resulted in conflict between the deities. Why? To teach them—and us—that the power of words must never be taken lightly.
This story reminds us of Eshu’s role as the intermediary between the divine and human realms. He holds the ashé — the power — of language itself, and his actions show that even the smallest twist of words can bring either harmony or chaos. It is Eshu who reminds us to think before we speak, to be mindful of how our words travel and how they will be received.
The Power of Words in Ifá: Ofò Ashe
In Ifá, we know that words are not just sounds—they carry spiritual energy. The Yoruba call this ofò ashe, the spoken word that has the power to manifest reality. Whether it’s a prayer, an incantation, or a conversation, each word we utter sends vibrations into the world, either creating balance or disrupting it. Eshu’s lesson in Ose Meji shows us that speaking without mindfulness can open doors to misunderstanding and conflict, just as much as it can open pathways to peace and understanding.
As Wittgenstein suggested, there are things we cannot fully express with words. And here lies the beauty of Ifá’s teaching on silence. Silence, much like speech, is sacred. Before we release the force of our words, we are encouraged to consult Ifá, reflect, and only speak when the moment is right. This is where Eshu, as the master of words, also teaches us restraint—knowing when to speak and when to remain silent.
Eshu’s Balance of Speech and Silence
Eshu’s role is to create both opportunities and challenges with our words, testing us to see if we will use them wisely. He lives at the threshold between chaos and order, and he reveals the potential of both with our speech. But he also teaches that there is immense wisdom in silence. Just as in the story from Ose Meji, sometimes the greatest power comes from what is left unsaid.
In the Odu Irosun Meji, we learn that a time came when Orunmila, the deity of wisdom, was called to speak on a great matter of cosmic importance. But instead of immediately responding, Orunmila remained silent. He waited, reflecting deeply on the situation before giving his advice. The other Orishá were surprised by his restraint, but Orunmila understood that true wisdom comes from reflection and contemplation, not from hasty words.
This reflects Wittgenstein’s belief that silence often carries more truth than words. Sometimes, what cannot be said holds the deepest meaning. Eshu reminds us that silence is not a void; it is a sacred space for wisdom to unfold.
Practical Spiritual Guidance: When to Speak and When to Be Silent
In our daily spiritual practice, we are constantly at the crossroads, much like those guarded by Eshu. We must decide when our words will serve to uplift and when they may cause unintended harm. Here are some ways to apply Eshu’s lessons on speech and silence in our lives:
Consult Ifá before speaking on important matters: Just as Orunmila did in Irosun Meji, take time for reflection and divination before speaking on delicate issues.
Respect the power of ofò ashe: Know that your words carry ashe, the divine force that can manifest change. Speak only with intention, reverence, and clarity.
Embrace silence as a spiritual practice: Silence is not just the absence of sound; it is an active practice of listening—to Ifá, to the Orishá, and to the energies around you. In silence, we receive deeper insights and avoid the pitfalls of impulsive speech.
Conclusion
Eshu, the keeper of the crossroads, teaches us that words are sacred tools, and with them comes great responsibility. As Wittgenstein suggested, when words fall short, silence becomes the wiser path. In the Ifá tradition, silence is a powerful ally, allowing us to connect with the divine and reflect before unleashing the force of our words.
As you navigate your journey, may Eshu guide your speech, and may you find wisdom in both your words and your silence.
Stay blessed, and may Eshu open the right paths for your words to carry true power.
Àse o,
Babá Tilo de Àjàgùnnà
DAILY IFÁ