Loneliness and Belonging in Orishá Tradition
Finding Strength in Solitude: How Ifá and Orishá Traditions Guide Us Through Loneliness
Ẹ kúbọ̣! (Greetings!)
Loneliness. It’s a word that many of us shy away from, yet it’s a feeling that touches everyone at some point in life. Even in the midst of our bustling communities, or among family, friends, and spiritual groups, we sometimes feel this deep sense of isolation. But what is loneliness truly, and why do we experience it, even as we walk the path of Orishá and Ifá?
What is Loneliness?
In Ifá, we learn that the soul is never truly isolated. Even when we walk alone, our Orí (our divine inner self) walks with us, guiding us. But loneliness, that feeling of separation, is a disconnect between the head and the heart, between Orí and the outer world. It is a sense of loss, as if one’s spiritual and social anchors have loosened.
Odu Ifá, *Ogbè Méjì*, reminds us: *"The world is a market. We come to buy and sell, and eventually, we all return home."* In this proverb, Ifá teaches that while we may feel like strangers at the market (earth), the spirit has its home with the Orishás and ancestors. Loneliness, then, is a temporary condition of this worldly market, not of our eternal selves.
Why Do People Feel Lonely?
People feel lonely for many reasons. Some may be physically alone, far from family, or without a spiritual community. Others may feel loneliness even surrounded by loved ones, a sign that their Orí is out of alignment or seeking deeper connection. When we are disconnected from our spiritual purpose, loneliness becomes a shadow. This is what *Òtúrá Méjì* speaks of when it says: *"One who does not honor their Orí walks the earth like a leaf in the wind."* Without grounding ourselves in our purpose, we drift.
The Difference Between Being Alone and Feeling Lonely
Being alone and feeling lonely are not the same. In *Irosun Wori*, Ifá tells the story of a traveler who walked alone but was accompanied by the wisdom of the Orunmila. Though physically alone, the traveler’s Orí was strong and guided them toward success. There is power in solitude when we embrace it with purpose. Being alone can provide clarity, spiritual insight, and inner strength.
Loneliness, on the other hand, is a feeling of disconnection. One can feel lonely in a crowd if their spirit is not nourished. When we neglect our spiritual relationships with the Orishás, ancestors, or our community, loneliness takes root.
### Spiritual Loneliness vs. Social Loneliness
In Afro-American traditions, we understand that spiritual and social embedding are interconnected but not the same. *Eji Ogbe* teaches us that Orúnmìlà, though a wise teacher, needed the companionship of Esu at the crossroads to fully realize his power. We need both spiritual guidance and social support.
Spiritual loneliness is when one feels abandoned by their spiritual guides, as if the Orishás are silent or distant. This can happen when we neglect daily rituals or fail to honor our ancestors. The feeling is akin to losing the light that guides our path.
Social loneliness, however, is about human connection. In the diaspora, many are separated from their homeland, their spiritual houses, and community. This creates a unique kind of longing—a homesickness for the shared cultural and spiritual experiences that ground us.
The Role of Shared Experiences Against Loneliness
In our traditions, shared experiences are vital. Whether it’s drumming at a *Bàtá* ceremony, singing praises to Oshun at the river, or gathering for a divination with the babalawo, we find strength in community. *Odu Ogunda Meji* reminds us: *"Together we rise, divided we fall."* The Orishás call us to share, to celebrate, and to grow together. This sense of belonging is an antidote to loneliness.
In the absence of a spiritual house, there are ways to connect to this shared energy. Even when physical gatherings are impossible, the Orishás are present in every sunrise, in the wind, and in the rhythm of life. Light a candle for your ancestors. Offer prayers to your Orí. Speak to the Orishás at your altar or in nature. Shared experiences are not only social—they are also spiritual.
What To Do When No Spiritual House or Group is Around
Many in the diaspora face the challenge of being far from a spiritual house or community. But remember, the Orishás are everywhere. In *Odu Ika Ofun*, Ifá tells us: *"The one who has no house must build one in their heart."* You are never truly alone when your heart carries the spirit of your ancestors and the blessings of your Orí.
Start small. Create a sacred space in your home. Connect with other devotees online, join virtual ceremonies, or study the wisdom of Ifá through books and teachings. Your Orí is the first temple, and honoring it draws the Orishás closer to you, no matter the distance.
In Conclusion
Loneliness is a part of the human experience, but it does not define us. In the path of Ifá and Orishá, we learn that even when the world feels distant, we are never truly alone. Our Orí, our ancestors, and the Orishás walk with us, guiding our steps, comforting our hearts, and strengthening our spirit.
Aṣẹ.
Ẹ kúbọ̣ ooo,
Babá Tilo de Àjàgùnnà
DAILY IFÁ
As a supporting subscriber I will reveal the recommendations and offerings for Odu Ifá Irete Odi for the upcoming week. Get to know and understand the myth of Yemanjá and the Goose.
Weekly Prediction for Odu Ifá Irete Odi
This week, Odu Ifá Irete Odi reminds us of the importance of patience, resilience, and the need to cleanse ourselves from negativity. This Odu teaches that stubbornness can lead to setbacks, but determination and wisdom can guide us toward rebirth and success. It’s a path that urges us to be aware of deceitful influences, both internal and external, and emphasizes the importance of aligning ourselves with divine guidance for protection and growth.
Key Orishás Active on This Path
Yemayá: The mother of the oceans and ruler of deep mysteries, Yemayá plays a crucial role in this Odu, urging us to nurture and protect children and to be mindful of emotional balance.
Oshun: Oshun’s influence reminds us of the power of love, beauty, and diplomacy, especially in resolving conflicts and ensuring emotional harmony.
Obatalá: As the Orisha of peace, purity, and wisdom, Obatalá helps clear away confusion and provides clarity, especially in moments of conflict or indecision.
Oke: Oke’s presence strengthens the message of resilience and stability, especially regarding overcoming obstacles.
Myth: The Goose and Yemayá's Hunger
In this Odu, we learn the story of Yemayá, who was once deeply dissatisfied and frustrated because nothing could satisfy her hunger. Orisha Shango and Eleguá, knowing of her distress, decided to search for something that might calm her spirit. On their journey, they encountered two geese. Despite the geese's fierce defense, Shango and Eleguá captured one and presented it to Yemayá.
Upon receiving the goose, Yemayá exclaimed, "What a beautiful creature!" but noted that she didn’t like its face. Yemayá finally found satisfaction in this unique offering, thus cementing the goose as a sacred offering to her.
This myth teaches us about the importance of finding satisfaction through unconventional means and the necessity of honoring our emotional and spiritual needs, even when they seem elusive. It also reflects the lesson that sometimes, despite our resistance or struggle, peace can be found through persistence.
Proverbs of Irete Odi:
"If someone has bitten you, they’ve reminded you that they have teeth."
This proverb emphasizes the need to be cautious of those who have caused harm before and not underestimate them again.
"The same person you save might one day become your executioner."
This reminds us of the duality in relationships and the importance of being discerning, even with those we help.
Consequences for the Week
When things go well under the influence of Irete Odi, it brings success, new opportunities, and harmony, particularly in familial and professional aspects. This Odu encourages perseverance and self-discipline, as these qualities will lead to long-term prosperity.
However, if ignored or mishandled, Irete Odi warns of betrayal, hidden enemies, and potential health issues, particularly regarding the lungs and heart. This week, be mindful of deceit, avoid stubbornness, and watch out for those who may not have your best interests at heart. It's also a time to reevaluate any relationships that seem imbalanced or harmful.
DIY Ritual for Harmonizing the Positive and Protecting Against the Negative
Materials:
White and blue cloth (for Yemayá)
Black and white flags (for protection)
Sea salt (for cleansing)
Honey (to sweeten relationships)
Palm oil (to clear blockages)
A small bowl of water from a natural source (river, ocean, or rainwater)
Instructions:
Create a Sacred Space: Lay out a white and blue cloth in a quiet space. Place a bowl of water in the center and surround it with sea salt, symbolizing purification. Draw the sign of Irete Odi and place offerings on or below this sign.
Honoring Yemayá: Light a white candle and offer Yemayá honey, asking for her blessings in protecting your emotional balance, nurturing relationships, and guiding you through any challenges. Speak to Yemayá with gratitude, acknowledging her role as the mother of the oceans and the keeper of secrets. (Honey because Oshun flows into Yemayá).
Protection Ritual with the Black and White Flags: Place small black and white flags at the entrance of your home or the space where you perform this ritual. These flags symbolize protection against negativity and hidden dangers. Sprinkle sea salt at the entrance to prevent any harmful energies from entering.
Water Cleansing: Using the natural water, cleanse your hands and feet, asking Yemayá and Oshun to wash away any negative influences or obstacles from your life. As you perform this cleansing, repeat: "May Yemayá’s waters cleanse and protect me, and may Oshun’s sweetness guide me toward harmony."
Palm Oil Offering: Pour a few drops of palm oil at the base of the candle or on the black and white flags, asking for Obatalá’s guidance in clearing any blockages in your path. This action symbolizes clarity and purification.
Conclude: Let the candle burn down naturally and allow the space to remain undisturbed for at least 24 hours. Dispose of the offerings respectfully, ideally near a body of water, to return the blessings to nature.
By performing this simple yet powerful ritual, you align yourself with the strengths of Irete Odi, inviting resilience, peace, and protection into your life. It fortifies the positive aspects of this Odu while guarding against betrayal and emotional turmoil.
Àṣẹ.
Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà