In Ifá Cosmology, the universe is seen as an interconnected web of physical and spiritual realms. At its core is Olodumare, the supreme being, who created the world and governs it alongside the Orisha, divine forces that embody aspects of nature and human life. Every individual has an Ori, a spiritual essence that guides their destiny. The balance between Ashe (divine energy), the actions of humans, and the will of the Orisha is crucial to maintaining harmony in the universe.

Knowledge in Ifá is preserved in the Odu Ifá, a collection of 256 chapters containing thousands of poetic verses, proverbs, and parables. These sacred texts are repositories of wisdom about the cosmos, ethics, and human relationships. Babalawo (priests) use divination tools like the divining chain (opele) and sacred palm nuts to interpret these verses and provide guidance. Knowledge is also transmitted orally through rituals, initiation processes, and storytelling.

Ethics in Ifá are deeply tied to the concept of Iwa Pele (good character), which emphasises honesty, humility, patience, and respect. Living ethically means aligning one’s actions with their Ori and fulfilling their destiny without harming others or disrupting harmony. Respect for community, elders, and the natural world is also central to Ifá ethics, reflecting the Yoruba belief in interconnectedness and reciprocity.

The logic of Ifá is grounded in patterns and symbols revealed through divination. The Babalawo interprets these patterns to uncover hidden truths and provide guidance. This symbolic reasoning connects the spiritual and material realms, enabling individuals to navigate life’s uncertainties with insight. The use of parables and proverbs also demonstrates a practical and context-based approach to problem-solving, rooted in lived experience and collective wisdom.

In Ifá, aesthetics are an expression of spiritual truth and cosmic harmony. Ritual objects, ceremonial attire, beadwork, and carvings are rich with symbolic meanings that honour the Orisha and celebrate the beauty of existence. Drumming, chanting, and dance play vital roles in rituals, serving as both artistic expressions and spiritual tools to connect with divine forces. Every aesthetic creation reflects the Yoruba ideal of balance and interconnectedness.

The methodology of Ifá combines divination, storytelling, ritual practice, and direct observation of nature. Divination is central, providing a structured way to access wisdom from the Odu Ifá and the Orisha. Rituals help individuals and communities connect with spiritual forces, while parables and proverbs from the Odu Ifá provide practical ethical guidance. This approach blends intellectual inquiry, spiritual practice, and communal learning.

Humans, in Ifá Cosmology, are spiritual beings with a divine purpose. Each person’s Ori (spiritual essence) represents their destiny and connects them to Olodumare and the Orisha. Life is seen as a journey to fulfil one’s destiny, guided by ethical principles and spiritual insight. Humans are also considered co-creators with the divine, responsible for maintaining balance and contributing positively to the world.

Yoruba leadership is deeply influenced by Ifá principles. Leaders, such as kings (Oba), are expected to embody wisdom, fairness, and humility. Rituals and divination often guide political decisions, ensuring they align with cosmic harmony and the well-being of the community. Leaders are seen as stewards of balance and justice, with a responsibility to act in service of their people and the divine order.

Ifá has been practised for thousands of years, originating in the Yoruba homeland of present-day Nigeria. Despite the disruptions of colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade, Ifá has survived and spread to the Americas, where it has influenced Afro-diasporic religions such as Santería, Candomblé, and Vodou. Today, Ifá continues to thrive, blending traditional practices with modern interpretations and maintaining its role as a spiritual and philosophical cornerstone for Yoruba communities worldwide.

Key themes in Ifá include the importance of destiny (Ori), the balance between the spiritual and material worlds, the pursuit of good character (Iwa Pele), and the interconnectedness of all life. Ifá philosophy also explores the role of humans as co-creators, emphasising ethical responsibility and the need to maintain harmony with the divine forces and the natural world.