Rapid Increase in Ifa Initiations in Brazil as Thousands of Brazilians Embrace the Yoruba Religion
In recent times, Brazil has witnessed a significant surge in the number of individuals seeking initiation into Ifa spirituality, a traditional Yoruba religion and divination system. This trend has attracted a diverse range of devotees, particularly those of European descent, who are embracing the wisdom and intellectual development associated with Ifa.
At the forefront of this movement is Bàbálórìsà Adesina Sikiru Salami, the esteemed founder of Oduduwa Templo dos Orixás in Brazil. Salami proudly reveals that his temple has initiated thousands of Brazilians into Ifa religion, signifying a growing interest and commitment to its principles. He notes that Brazilians are not only embracing Ifa but also engaging in research to further enhance its practices.
Another influential Yoruba traditionalist playing a pivotal role in the propagation of Ifa in Brazil is Oba (Ogboni) Adekunle Aderonmu, an esteemed Ogboni king and Ifa practitioner. Aderonmu emphasizes his contribution by stating, “I have initiated thousands of Brazilians, and they are thriving.” His statement underscores the positive impact and success experienced by those who have undergone the initiation process.
The initiation, known as Itefá, is a sacred ritual involving the harvest and sanctification of the sacred palm kernel, Ikin Ifa. This process allows individuals to establish a spiritual connection with Ifa, also known as Orunmila, the deity associated with wisdom and intellectual development in Yoruba tradition.
The increasing number of Brazilians seeking Ifa initiation highlights the profound impact this ancient Yoruba religion has on people’s lives. As the country’s cultural landscape continues to diversify, the acceptance and adoption of Ifa demonstrate Brazil’s openness to embracing different spiritual paths.
The growing interest in Ifa spirituality among Brazilians serves as a testament to the universal appeal of ancient traditions and the enduring quest for spiritual enlightenment in contemporary society.
Ifa spirituality is gaining momentum in Brazil, a significant number of Orisa devotees in the country are dedicating themselves to studying the Ifa corpus and Yoruba language.
In particular, the white communities in Brazil are taking great strides in deepening their understanding of Ifa by traveling to Nigeria to enhance their knowledge. Furthermore, several universities across Brazil are organizing programs and workshops centered around Ifa spirituality.
A noteworthy development in the Brazilian context is the initiation of children into the Ifa religion at tender ages. Families are actively involving their children in Ifa practices, taking them to temples where they can grow and develop within the spiritual tradition. This highlights the commitment and dedication of Brazilian families to ensuring the continuity of Ifa spirituality through generations.
The state of Rio Grande do Sul, which is predominantly white, is witnessing a gradual shift as Ifa spirituality gains prominence over other Orisa services. This shift demonstrates the growing influence and acceptance of Ifa within diverse communities in Brazil.
It is important to note that Brazil is a secular state where all religions are permitted, including Catholicism. This openness allows Brazilians, regardless of their religious background, to explore and engage with Ifa spirituality. The increasing number of Catholics embracing Ifa reflects the universal appeal and the personal significance that individuals find in this ancient Yoruba religion.
Amidst this surge in interest, Yeye Paula, an Ifa devotee, expresses her satisfaction, stating, “I am glad to be an Ifa devotee.” Her sentiment echoes the sense of fulfillment and spiritual growth experienced by many Brazilians who have found solace and meaning in Ifa spirituality.
As the search for Ifa spirituality continues to expand in Brazil, it is evident that individuals are investing time and effort into deepening their knowledge and practice. This growing interest has not only led to educational endeavors but also highlights the evolving landscape of religious diversity in Brazil, where different spiritual paths are embraced and celebrated.
The term “Ifa” refers to the mystical entity known as Ifa or Orunmila, who is highly esteemed by the Yoruba people as the deity associated with wisdom and intellectual growth. Ifa represents the indigenous knowledge and belief system of the Yoruba community, with its origins dating back to a time before recorded history, long preceding the era of colonialism. Over time, the Yoruba people developed cultural customs and institutions that revolve around the realities of Yorubaland and the ways in which its inhabitants interact with those realities. At the core of Ifa lies a system of divination, which serves as a crucial tool for unlocking the scientific and metaphysical knowledge contained within the Odu Ifa, its literary corpus.
Orunmila, held in high regard as the Grand Priest, is credited with the revelation or creation of the foundational aspects of divinity and prophecy, encapsulated within the first 16 Odu, which were shared with the world. Those who are referred to as Ifa priests, namely Babalawos and Iyanifas, are better understood as scholars akin to professors in classical university systems, rather than solely as priests. They employ various divination tools, such as the Opele (a divining chain) or the Ikin (sacred palm or kola nuts), in conjunction with the wooden divination tray known as Opon Ifa. Through intricate mathematical calculations, they discern the appropriate Odu to address specific problems or inquiries.
Ifa’s influence is not confined solely to the Yoruba people but extends across the Americas, West Africa, and the Canary Islands. It manifests as a complex religious system and holds profound significance within the traditions of Santería, Candomblé, Palo, Umbanda, Vodou, and other Afro-American faiths. Furthermore, Ifa continues to play a pivotal role in various traditional African religions, further emphasizing its enduring cultural and spiritual relevance.
