Guided by IFÁ
THE ORACLES
To understand the Oracles and their relationship with the Odus and the journey of life, let's revisit the example of traveling from Rio de Janeiro to São Paulo. The Odu represents the route you're on—whether by choice or circumstance, this is the path you're currently following. In this simplified example, consulting the Oracle is like turning on a GPS. The Oracle, like the GPS, highlights the details of the route you're following, offering guidance on the conditions, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead. However, even with this guidance, you still have the freedom to choose your actions—whether to follow the Oracle's advice or not. The GPS doesn't change your destination, but it offers clarity, helping you make more informed decisions along the way.
In the Ifá tradition, the Odus reflect different aspects of a person's life, with various Odus linked to specific situations or experiences. For example, one Odu might describe your professional journey, while another could offer insight into your personal or spiritual life. Together, these Odus provide a complete picture of the energies and forces influencing your current circumstances. They don’t just offer isolated perspectives but work like a detailed map, revealing the interconnected forces shaping various aspects of your life. By working together, the Odus offer a comprehensive understanding of your life journey and how different elements are unfolding.
The Oracle plays a fundamental role in connecting the individual with the wisdom of Ifá, revealing the forces and patterns that shape their lives. The interpreter of the Oracle acts as the decoder of the messages. Through their deep knowledge of the Odus, along with the stories, myths, and wisdom associated with them, combined with their spiritual connection and intuition, the interpreter reveals the messages transmitted by the Oracle. This process is not about predicting specific events but understanding the energies at play in the querent’s life and offering guidance on how to navigate them.
Finally, the role of the person consulting the Oracle is equally essential. The individual seeks clarity, guidance, or solutions for specific questions. The reading becomes a collaborative process, in which the interpreter presents the revelations, and the individual reflects on how these messages connect to their life. Through this dynamic interaction, the Oracle provides the necessary clarity, allowing the individual to make decisions and take actions in harmony with their destiny.