Dear Readers of DAILY IFÁ
Odu Ifá Osá Otura says:
"Osá Otura says, 'What is Truth?'
I say, 'What is Truth?'
Orunmila says, 'Truth is the Lord of Heaven guiding the Earth.'
Orunmila says, 'Truth is the Unseen One guiding the Earth.
The wisdom of Olodumare he is using.'
Osá Otura says, 'What is Truth?'
I say, 'What is Truth?'
Orunmila says, 'Truth is the character of Olodumare.
Truth is the word that cannot fall. Ifá is Truth.
Truth is the word that cannot spoil.
Might surpassing all.
Blessing everlasting was the one who cast Ifá for Earth.
They said they should come and speak the truth.'"
— Odu Osá Otura.
In this week’s edition of DAILY IFÁ, we immerse ourselves in the sacred wisdom of Truth. The verses from Odu Osá Otura echo a timeless question: “What is Truth?” It’s a question that invites not only contemplation but action. Through this Odu, Orunmila reveals that Truth is far more than words—it is a cosmic force, a guidepost for life, and a reflection of Olodumare’s divine character.
Truth as the Guiding Light
When Orunmila says, “Truth is the Lord of Heaven guiding the Earth,” he is revealing something profound about the nature of the world. Truth, according to Ifá, is the bridge between the heavens and the earth. It is the wisdom of Olodumare, flowing unseen but ever-present, guiding the course of human affairs. When we live in truth, we align ourselves with that sacred flow.
We all know how easy it is to stray from truth. Life in Ayé, the material world, is filled with distractions, temptations, and trials that test our integrity. But Ifá teaches us that truth is eternal, unshaken by the passing storms of life. Orunmila reminds us that truth is “the word that cannot fall,” because it is rooted in the character of Olodumare Himself. In this way, truth is more than just being honest with others—it is about being in harmony with the divine forces that shape our lives.
Think of the Odu Ifá, Ogbe Yonu:
“It is truth that brings blessings, and truth is the foundation of all things.”
- Odu Ogbe Yonu
This proverb mirrors what Osá Otura teaches us: truth is unbreakable, and through it, we unlock the blessings of heaven. As we walk the path of truth, we invoke the wisdom of Olodumare, allowing it to flow into our lives like a river of eternal blessings.
Truth as an Inner Compass
But how do we find the truth within ourselves? In Ifá, we are taught to seek alignment with our Ori, our spiritual essence. When our Ori is well-calibrated, we are able to discern truth more clearly, both in the world and in ourselves. In moments of doubt, we can turn to the guidance of Ifá, the wisdom that flows from Orunmila, to show us the way.
In Odu Irosun Meji, we are reminded that
“Truth is the foundation of good character, and good character is the essence of destiny.”
- Odu Irosun Meji
Our character—our inner compass—must be attuned to truth if we are to fulfill our destiny in this life and beyond. This is why Ifá prescribes rituals to fortify our connection to truth. By marking the sacred symbols of Ifá in divining powder and consuming it, we internalize the divine essence of truth, allowing it to become part of our very being.
To live truthfully is to recognize that Ifá is Truth. The wisdom of Ifá does not bend or spoil with time; it remains firm and mighty, guiding us through the challenges of life. Just as Orunmila’s words are unshakable, so too must our dedication to truth be unwavering.
Truth in Action
In the diaspora, where many of us have found ourselves removed from the lands of our ancestors, the call to live in truth is even more vital. The traditions of Ifá provide us with an anchor, a way to maintain our connection to the divine even when we are far from the soil of Africa.
The act of speaking truth—whether to ourselves, to our communities, or to the Orishas—invites divine favor. In the Yoruba tradition, it is said that Olodumare blesses those who walk the path of truth. As we speak truth, we align ourselves with the cosmic order, attracting the blessings of the universe into our lives.
Orunmila’s declaration, “Blessing everlasting was the one who cast Ifá for Earth,” teaches us that the very foundation of the world was laid upon truth. Ifá is the blueprint of life, and it was cast with a clarity that cannot be tainted. When we live truthfully, we are walking in the footsteps of the divine, co-creating our reality in harmony with Olodumare’s will.
"Speak the truth, tell the facts;
Speak the truth, tell the facts;
Those who speak the truth are those whom the gods will help."
(Onadele Epega)
May the wisdom of Osá Otura be your guiding light. As you walk the path of truth, know that you are supported by the unseen forces of heaven, and that Olodumare’s blessings will flow into your life as a result. Stay blessed and walk in truth.
Àṣẹ!
Babá Tilo de Àjàgùnnà
DAILY IFÁ
The Power of Discipline and Spiritual Relationships: Odu Ifá Ika Oturupon guiding next week
Summary for All Readers
This week, we explore the intricate lessons of Odu Ifá Ika Oturupon, an Odu that focuses on the importance of spiritual discipline, maintaining proper relationships with the Orishas, and avoiding deceit. Ika Oturupon reminds us that when we neglect our spiritual obligations or act without integrity, we can create unnecessary conflict and block our blessings.
The Odu also highlights the power of making offerings and sacrifices to clear the path ahead. It teaches that aligning with Orunmila’s wisdom and keeping peace with our Ori can lead to prosperity, good health, and emotional stability. However, when we engage in deceit or fail to honor the Orishas, we risk falling into conflict and illness.
Ika Oturupon urges us to take responsibility for our actions, avoid unnecessary arguments, and perform the necessary rituals to safeguard our spiritual and physical well-being. The Odu reminds us that discipline and focus are essential for success, whether in relationships, health, or financial matters.
This week, you may encounter challenges that require you to reexamine your spiritual commitments and relationships with others. Ika Oturupon emphasizes that through proper spiritual discipline and honoring the Orishas, we can restore balance and receive blessings.
Exclusive Content for Supporting Subscribers
The Wisdom of Odu Ika Oturupon: Spiritual Discipline and Avoiding Deceit
Dear Subscribers,
Thank you for your continued support. This week, we delve deeper into the powerful teachings of Odu Ifá Ika Oturupon. This Odu emphasizes the importance of spiritual discipline and the dangers of engaging in deceit or neglecting our spiritual responsibilities. Ika Oturupon teaches us that when we fail to maintain our spiritual relationships, especially with Orunmila and the Orishas, we invite chaos and illness into our lives.
Key Dimensions of Life According to Odu Ifá Ika Oturupon
Myth: The Consequences of Neglecting Spiritual Discipline
In the story of Ika Oturupon, it is said that Orunmila was once attacked by wild animals because he had neglected his spiritual duties. In the myth, the people of a town released dogs and wild animals to harm Orunmila. To escape, Orunmila had to climb a tall tree, symbolizing the need for elevation and protection through spiritual means. This myth serves as a powerful reminder that when we neglect our spiritual obligations, we expose ourselves to danger.
In this Odu, Orunmila advises that to avoid such calamities, we must perform ebo (sacrifice) and honor our Ori (spiritual essence) to restore peace and balance. The people involved in the myth eventually recognized the error of their ways, made sacrifices, and found peace again. This teaches us that the consequences of spiritual neglect can be reversed through appropriate action and sincere offerings.
Consequences for the Week:
This myth underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual discipline. If things seem chaotic in your life, it may be time to perform a cleansing or make offerings to Orunmila and your Ori. Ika Oturupon also warns against engaging in deceit or manipulative actions, as they can backfire and cause harm in unexpected ways.
Proverbs (from Odu Ifá):
"Ika Oturupon says, 'Each person is responsible for themselves; do not create problems for others or yourself.'"
This proverb reminds us that our actions have consequences, and we are ultimately responsible for maintaining balance in our lives. It emphasizes the need to avoid deceit, act with integrity, and take ownership of our spiritual practices.
Rituals and Offerings for the Week
For Spiritual Discipline and Protection: (Honoring Orunmila, Eshu, and Ori)
Protection Ritual for Orunmila: Prepare an altar with a green cloth, and offer Orunmila coconuts, palm oil, and kola nuts. Light a white candle and ask Orunmila to guide and protect you from deceit or spiritual neglect. Focus on your intentions for the week, and ask for clarity in all your decisions.
Cleansing Ritual for Eshu: Place three akara (bean cakes) at the foot of a tree and ask Eshu to clear any blockages on your path. Offer palm oil and coconuts to maintain peace and balance in your life. This ritual is particularly useful for removing negative energy or obstacles.
Key Areas of Life
Love and Relationships
Ire (Positive): If you are disciplined in your communication and respectful in your interactions, your relationships will improve this week. Offerings to Oshun, such as honey and fresh water, will help promote love and harmony.
Osogbo (Negative): Avoid arguments or conflicts that arise out of pride or deceit. This Odu warns that such behavior can cause lasting damage. Perform a cleansing ritual to clear any negative energy affecting your relationships.
Health
Ire (Positive): Pay attention to your physical and emotional well-being this week. Ika Oturupon advises that good health comes from maintaining a balanced approach to both the body and spirit. Offerings to Orunmila and Egungun will ensure longevity and good health.
Osogbo (Negative): Take care to avoid stress-related health issues, particularly those related to the chest or abdomen. If you have been feeling unwell, it may be a sign that you need to restore balance in your spiritual life.
Business and Finances
Ire (Positive): Success is achievable if you stay disciplined and focused on your goals. Offerings to Ogun will help clear obstacles in your financial dealings, ensuring that you remain on the path to prosperity.
Osogbo (Negative): Be cautious of deceit in business dealings this week. Double-check contracts and be mindful of who you trust in financial matters. Ika Oturupon warns that dishonesty can lead to loss and conflict.
By aligning yourself with the guidance of Odu Ifá Ika Oturupon, you can navigate the upcoming week with wisdom, discipline, and the strength to avoid unnecessary conflict. Honor your Orishas, avoid deceit, and take care of your spiritual health, and you will receive blessings in abundance.
Blessings and Àṣẹ,
Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà
DAILY IFÁ