Boards

Our Complete Selection of Boards

The Ifá board, known as "Opón Ifá" in the Yoruba tradition, is a fundamental tool in the practice of Ifá divination, performed by the priests known as Babalawos. This board is a sacred and symbolic representation of the universe and is used to communicate with Orunmila (Orula), the orisha of wisdom, knowledge and divination.

Features of the Ifá Board

1. Shape and Materials : The Opón Ifá generally has a circular or rectangular shape and is made of wood. It may be adorned with carvings and symbols that have spiritual meanings.
2. Decoration : The edge of the board is usually decorated with figures and symbols related to the orishas and other elements of the Yoruba religion.

Use of the Ifá Board

1. Preparation : Before beginning a divination session, the Babalawo cleans and consecrates the board, often sprinkling sacred powder known as Iyerosun over its surface.
2. Symbol Tracing : The Babalawo traces marks in the dust of Iyerosun using a special tool called Iroke Ifá, a divination staff. These marks represent the Odù Ifá, which are the 256 signs or patterns of divination.
3. Interpretation : Each Odù Ifá has a set of associated verses, stories and teachings that the Babalawo interprets to provide guidance and answers to the consultant's questions.
4. Consultation and Ritual : During the consultation, the Babalawo may also use additional tools such as the Ikin (palm nuts) or the Opele (divination chain). Through these tools and the Ifá board, the connection with Orunmila is made and divine wisdom is received.
5. Offerings and Sacrifices : Depending on the interpretation of the signs, the Babalawo can recommend certain sacrifices or offerings (Ẹbọ) to appease the orishas and seek solutions to the consultant's problems.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

The use of the Ifá board is a deeply spiritual practice that not only seeks to answer questions and solve problems, but also maintain balance and harmony between the physical and spiritual worlds. Through this practice, ancestral and cultural knowledge is preserved and transmitted, playing a vital role in the identity and continuity of Yoruba tradition.

The Opón Ifá is, therefore, much more than a divination tool; It is a bridge between the past and the present, between the human and the divine, and a means to understand and act in the world with wisdom and responsibility.