What is an Iyanifa and what does she do?
Iyanifa means mother of divination or wisdom in the Yoruba language. She may also be called Iyalawo meaning mother of secrets and both terms denote a priestess of Ifa. Her male counterpart is called Babalawo ( Father of secrets) and Awo is a gender neutral term for both. Ifa is an advanced system of divination in Africa using a divining chain called an opele or palm nuts called ikin. The system represents the wisdom teachings of the Orisha Orunmila considered the oraclular representation of Olodumare ( God).
Iyanifas undergo training in the memorization and interpretation of the 256 Odu or mysteries, as well as in the numerous verses or Ese of Ifá. Traditionally, the Iyalawo usually have additional professional specialties such as traditional healing. They are, however, generally trained in the determination of problems, or to divine how good fortune can be maintained, and the application of both spiritual and related secular diagnosis and solutions. Their primary function is to assist people in finding, understanding, and being in alignment with one's individual destiny, life or souls purpose. The Awo is charged with helping people develop the discipline and character that supports such spiritual growth called "Iwa Pele", or good character. This is done by identifying the client's spiritual destiny, or Ori, and developing a spiritual blueprint which can be used to support, cultivate, and live out that destiny.
Iyanifas undergo training in the memorization and interpretation of the 256 Odu or mysteries, as well as in the numerous verses or Ese of Ifá. Traditionally, the Iyalawo usually have additional professional specialties such as traditional healing. They are, however, generally trained in the determination of problems, or to divine how good fortune can be maintained, and the application of both spiritual and related secular diagnosis and solutions. Their primary function is to assist people in finding, understanding, and being in alignment with one's individual destiny, life or souls purpose. The Awo is charged with helping people develop the discipline and character that supports such spiritual growth called "Iwa Pele", or good character. This is done by identifying the client's spiritual destiny, or Ori, and developing a spiritual blueprint which can be used to support, cultivate, and live out that destiny.