The Odu Ifá is the sacred corpus of the Ifá divination system. The 16 Principal Odu form the foundation of this knowledge, outlining the wisdom, narratives, and guidance that shape destiny. This glossary introduces each of the 16 Major Odu with clear explanations, helping practitioners better understand their meanings.

UNDERSTANDING THE ODU IFÁ 

The Odu Ifá refers to the complete system of sacred verses within the Ifá divination tradition. This literary corpus is composed of 256 Odu, beginning with the 16 Principal Odu, each of which contains 16 variations.

Collectively, these verses are understood to encompass every circumstance of human existence, along with their potential causes and outcomes. Each Odu is made up of numerous ese Ifá or poetic verses and proverbs. These verses have been transmitted orally for generations.

During , a trained Babaláwo or Ìyánífá cast instruments such as the opelé chain or sacred palm nuts. They reveal the Odu that guides the seeker in the present moment. The Odu Ifá, therefore, serves as both the foundation of Yoruba spiritual knowledge and the key to understanding human destiny.