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.
One influential figure playing a pivotal role in the propagation of Ifa in Brazil is Oba 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.
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.
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.