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Awo Yoruba: The Language of Ifá
Awo Yoruba: The Language of Ifá
THE LANGUAGE OF IF
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
USED IN IF DIVINATION
Introduction
In order to understand the oral tradition of Ifa it is necessary to
have some grasp of the language of Ifa.
resonance used to access the power of Spirit. Physics teaches the idea
that all power in the universe is part of a sign wave which is the full
spectrum of light.
color and pitch.
liturgical Yoruba is that the words used for invocation also carry
meaning that reveals the inner essense of the Spiritual Force itself.
For example, the word Obatala is used to describe the Force in
Nature science calls white light.
universe has some form of consciousness (ori). Saying the word Obatala
places human consciousness in alighnment with the consciousness of
white light. It does while telling us something about the quality of white
light. The word Obatala is an eliysian of the phrase; O (Spirit) ba (power
of expansion or male energy ie; Baba) ota (stone) ala (light). The word
Obatala in the context of Odu Ifa (Yoruba Scripture) means; the Spirit of
the expansive quality of light that comes from the eternal stone of
Creation (center point of the universe).
Olatunde Sproye in his book Yoruba without Tears states there are
one hundred and twenty-six combinations of vowels and consonants
used as the basis for the Yoruba Language.
ba be be bi bo bo bu da de de di do do du fa fe fe fi fo
fo fu ga ge ge gi go go gu gba gbe gbe gbi gbo gbo gbu
ha he he hi ho ho hu ja je je ji jo jo ju ka ke ke ki ko ko
ku la le le li lo lo lu ma me me mi mo mo mo mu na ne
ne ni no no nu pa pe pe pi po po pu ra re re ri ro ro ru
sa se se si so so su ta te te ti to to tu wa we we wi wo
wo wu ya ye ye yi yo yo yu
hundred and fifty six fundamental principles. The first four principles
represent the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. These four principles
support the rest of Creation.
through the manifestation of two hundred and fifty two Forces in Nature.
This suggests to me the foundation of Yoruba language has been linked
to Odu Ifa from its inception.
The first Yoruba English dictionaries were prepared by Christian
missionaries who had no understanding or desire to learn the spiritual
mysteries preserved in the Yoruba language. When Ifa and Orisa spread
through the Diaspora it was influenced by non African religions
concepts. I believe the best way to uncover the fundamental principles of
Ifa as it was originally invisioned is through a study of the liturgical
language.
When I wrote the book Iwa-pele I looked up the word Ifayabale in
the Yoruba English dictionary in an effort to better understand a
metaphysical concept.
Ase o
Awo Falokun Fatunmbi
A
a Him, her, we and it, depending on context.
a Used as a prefix to a verb in the formation of nouns.
b Half.
fin Palace, home of a king (Oba).
j Whirlwind, the Spirit of the Whirlwind, depending on context.
j Care, treatment.
k Ax.
l Boundary, border.
r Illness, fatigue.
rn Middle, center.
as Female Spirit, female Force in Nature.
s Door carved from the Iroko tree.
yn - awo - in - igb Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml), meaning: "Ayan Tree is the Mystery of the Inner Sanctum of
the Sacred Grove."
y Life.
ab A portion, a piece of something larger, farm hut depending on
context.
ab Mat. The mat is used to create sacred space in If and rs ritual
and divination.
ba Ladder. The ladder is sacred to the Spirit of the Divine Messenger
(s)
b Or.
abigba Four chains with nuts attached, used in some regions of Nigeria
to perform divination. Each chain has four nuts representing one leg of
the marks used to represent the verses (Od) of If scripture. When the
abigba is thrown two complete verses (Od) of If scripture are marked.
Abkehin The youngest child in a family.
bku A child who dies at a young age and reincarnates through the
same mother. The word refers to the spiritual cause behind a sequence
of deaths among children in the same family. When this occurs, If can
perform rituals that will induce the spirit of the child to remain on Earth
to become an adult.
abilko Wife or widow.
abo Female.
abo Arrival, return.
bo Expression used to greet someone who has returned to the place of
their departure.
Abgn Those who worship the ant hill, the ant hill represents the
Spirit of hard work and cooperation.
Abgn Those who worship the Spirit of Iron (gn).
abkul One who works with the spirit of ancestors (Egn) to invoke
transformation.
Abomal Those who worship the ancestors and the deified ancestors
(Egngn).
Abpa Member of a society that gives reverence to the memory of the
ancestors through the use of mediums.
Abrs Those who worship Forces in Nature (rs).
aboyn Woman who is pregnant.
abor The elevation of consciousness through the use of invocation and
spiritual cleansing. It is the process of placing the physical self and the
higher self in perfect alignment.
afri Barber, the person who shaves the head of an initiate during
religious rites of passage. The word is also used to refer to the person
who has had their head shaved.
afr Thing that disappears, a Spirit that vanishes.
Afefe A messenger of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya), the gale wind.
Afefe - jeje The whirlwind, the sacred power of the Spirit of the Wind
(Oya) in its most intense manifestation.
afe - imojo The tail of a large rat that is used by Yorb Kings as a
symbol of their power of the word.
afmju The early morning, one of the times considered sacred for
picking herbs.
Aferef e Praise name for the Spirit of the Wind (Oya), the gentle aspect
of the wind, the breeze, meaning: "The Good Wind."
Afrif lglg Praise name for the Spirit of the Wind (Oya) , meaning:
"Mysterious Wind."
fsn Engaged to be married, committed to a relationship.
afi Unless.
afi - bi Unless.
fn Albino, protected by the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl).
fojb Personal experience, personal truth.
afj Blind person, protected by the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl).
fom Infectious disease, that which is brought by the Spirit of
Infectious Disease (Babaluaiy).
Afon Breadfruit (Treculia africana ), sacred to If.
fonfoj Valley.
aforj Forgiveness, also refers to a type of prayer used in If for asking
Spirit to forgive the need to make a blood offering.
Agbami The mist that arises from the ocean, an aspect of the Spirit of
the Ocean (Olkun).
agbra Force, power, strength depending on context.
agbas Sacred stone, the Spirit of a sacred stone.
Agbra Elder, person in authority, the word is also used to express
power, spiritual
strength and authority, used in reference to someone who speaks with
authority, depending on context.
gbgb Surrounding district, outer portion of a village.
agbgb Hen.
agbledi One of the wrestling moves used in the marital art that is
sacred to the Spirit of Iron (gn).
gbere Intercourse, sexual interaction.
agbr Charm used by those who practice the martial art of the Spirit of
Iron (gn), used to insure that the person remains standing during a
martial arts contest.
gb Short sword sacred to the Spirit of Iron (gn), farmer depending
on context.
agbje Pumpkin, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
agbe Woodcock, cockatoo.
agbgilre Woodcarver, a profession that is generally sacred to the
Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
gbgb Elemental spirit of the Forest that is know for causing trouble.
agbo Medicine, poultice.
gb Ram, sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
agbo A circle of dancers at a religious ceremony.
agb at Long life, a common greeting among If initiates.
agogo - eiye The beak of a bird, sacred to the Spirit of the Mothers
(ymi).
Agongo ogo Praise name for the Divine Messenger (s), meaning: "He
Who Carries a Club."
guala The planet Venus, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun). It is
also known as the companion of the Moon or the dog of the Moon. The
Spirit of Venus.
Agunmola The planet Venus, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun). It
is also known as the companion of the Moon or the dog of the Moon. The
Spirit of Venus.
Agnmu Medicine that is prepared by pounding it into a powder with a
mortar and
pestle.
gtn Sheep.
ahere Farm hut.
ahun Miser.
aibi One who has no children, a form of bad fortune in If divination.
aifoya Being without fear, courage.
aigbo - iy Tranquility, being at peace in the world, the sign of one
who has developed inner certainty.
ike Ax, the double headed ax is sacred to the the Spirit of Lightning
(Sng).
aik Immortality, one who has become a deified ancestor, meaning:
"never die."
ilbku Spotless, being without blame, a reference to the good
character of the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl).
iliy Coward.
ilso Barren, without children, one of the forms of bad fortune in If
divination.
aile Evening.
jnde The Spirit of a deceased ancestor (Egn) who speaks at their own
funeral through a medium (Egngn).
js Charms used for protection.
jo Meeting, gathering of a group of people.
j Journey, used in reference to the spiritual journey of self discovery
that occurs throughout life.
ajobi Ancestors of a woman, matralineal ancestors (Aylal Egn).
Ajogn Destructive Spirits that bring death, disease and poverty.
These Spirits are
generally associated with the Spirit of the Divine Messenger (s) and
are considered an aspect of the balancing dynamic that occurs in Nature.
ajoj Dancing for the Spirits (Ors).
j l'ay Journey through the world, the entire spectrum of a person's
personal experience.
ajomisanra The eternal dew, a symbolic reference to the fountain of life
or the spiritual source of physical rejuvenation.
Aj ori The Spirit of the daughter of the Spirit of Lightning (Sng),
meaning: "Bird of the Inner Spirit."
jo sep Cooperation.
ajoyin - ibon The firing of muskets, traditionally muskets are fired
while making offerings to the Spirit of Iron (gn).
ajugu dunirn A pile of iron in or near a shrine used as an altar for the
Spirit of Iron (gn).
akb Ladder. The ladder is sacred to the Spirit of the Divine
Messenger (s).
kala Vulture, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
kar Bread cakes cooked in palm oil, sacred to the Spirit of the
Ancestors (Egn).
ktnp Hunter's tool, sacred to the Spirit of Iron (gn).
k Ax, sacred to the Spirit of the Farm (Ors Oko), the double headed
ax is sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).8888
kbj Over indulgent behavior, one of the sources of bad fortune in If
divination.
A - k - b - l Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning, "Radiant White."
akere Frog.
akese Cotton. Cotton is sacred to the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl).
aki Bravery, also the word for refering to the martial art practiced by
the devotees of the Spirit of Iron (gn).
akika Pangolin plant (Uromanis Longicanda
Briss
).
Akiko Cock, male chicken. Male chickens are sacred to the Spirit of
most Warriors (Ibora).
akin Hero, heroic person and heroic action.
ako Sheath of a knife. The sheath of a knife is used as an offering to the
Spirit of Destiny (rnml). The word also means male.
kb First born.
Akd One of the Prophet rnml's first two students, term also
used to identify a senior priest in a society of diviners.
akja Fulfillment, the purpose of following one's destiny.
kk Season of the year.
kk - rn Dry season.
kk - ojo Rainy season.
kk - ott Cold season.
kk - oy Windy season.
akokoro Toothache.
apeja Fisherman.
apiwo Cure for negative medicine, or for the removal of a hex.
p Bag often refers to bag used to carry medicine and tools associated
with ritual work, also refers to charms carried by worshippers of the
Spirit of Iron (gn).
ap Quiver, sacred to the Spirit of the Tracker (ss).
po'gn Medicine pouch.
po onsgn Medicine pouch.
pt Box.
ara Body, self, people, depending on context.
ara - ile Friends and relatives, members of the extended family.
ar Thunder, sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng) and the Spirit of
the Wind (Oya).
rb A senior If priest who is initiated into Mysteries that are
associated with protection from the Spirit of Infectious Disease
(Babaluaiy).
arbnrin Sister.
araiye People of the Earth.
arknrin Brother.
rn If drum.
rwa North, also refers to the Spirits of the North.
ariye The people of the world.
ar Play, the performance of a scared story.
arewa Beauty.
arigogo Hook.
wny rs Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "The
enraged Spirit."
wj Top of the head, refers to the power center at the crown of the
skull.
awuje Butter beans (Phaseolus lunatus )
wjo Meeting, gathering.
awun Miser.
awure Unassuming.
aya Wife.
Ayaba The wife of the queen.
yn Tree sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
ayani explanation.
ynm Destiny, the If belief that each person comes to the world
having an agreement
with Creation regarding the fate that is to be experienced during a given
life time.
ynm - pn Destiny, the If belief that each person comes to the
World having an agreement with Creation regarding the fate which is to
be experienced during a given life time.
Aynrbt - awo - l - oj Praise name for the Divine Messenger (s),
aye Room.
ay World.
Aylal The collective Spirit of Ancestral Mothers.
ayebo Hen.
ayo Joy.
D
da To cast divination.
d To create, to cause.
d To cast metal, to pour.
dd Good, or beautiful.
dabi To resemble.
dabb To protect, to provide a shield or screen.
dab To stop.
Dada The Spirit of Vegetables, also the guardian Spirit new born
children with large tufts of hair.
df The process of divination used by If priests that makes use of
either sixteen ikin (Sacred palm nuts) or an opl (Sacred chain with
eight nuts attached).
dgb Aging, to become old, to grow up.
dgalgb Becoming an adult male.
dhn To speak, to answer.
dhnfun To take responsibility, to speak with purity.
dj Dancing alone, a single dancer.
dj To settle a dispute.
dke To be silent.
dkeroro To be calm.
dako To circumcise, also refers to an offering to the Divine Messenger
(s).
dakn Please, or excuse me.
E
ebe Yams, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
ebi Hunger.
ebur Elemental spirits that work with the Spirit of Infectious disease
(Babaluiy).
d Language.
d Buffalo, sacred to the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
dyd Misunderstanding, argument.
d Charm, or spell.
gun Bones, human bones.
el How much?
p Greeting, announcing a procession of members of the male council
of elders (Ogboni).
dmr Regional dialect for Source of Creation, (Olodumare).
efi Smoke.
f Broken plate, sacred to the ancestors (Egn).
Efufu - lege - lege An aspect of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya), meaning:
"The Spirit of the Gentle Breeze."
Efunle If plant (Orchidaeeae )
egbe Loss.
Egb Whirlwind, an aspect of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
gb Protective charm for the Spirit of Iron (gn).
egbin Antelope.
egiri If medicine used as protection from the Spirit of Death (Iku).
egb Sore.
gbod Yams.
egbdo Slice yam.
egbogi Medicine.
gede Incantation, invocations used to raise power (ase).
egbn Smallpox, spread by the Spirit of Infectious Disease
(Babaluiy).
gn The Spirit of an ancestor.
Egngn Society of ancestral mediums who perform in masquerade.
egungun Silk cotton tree (Ceila pentandra ) also known as the Araba
Iroko tree.
egur Village.
egunsi Melon seeds, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
eji Rain.
epo Palm oil, sacred to most male Forces in Nature (rs). Staple in
traditional Yoruba diet.
er Boa constrictor, sacred to the Spirit of the Rainbow (Osumare).
r Gain.
er Spontaneity.
re Statue of a Force of Nature (rs), usually carved from wood.
er isink Improvised aspects of a funeral ritual.
erin Elephant, sacred to the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl).
erink Corn on the cob.
Erinl Elephant also the Spirit of Song.
r Thought, people depending on context.
ro Person on a spiritual pilgrimage.
rokr Negative intentions, the desire to do harm.
eru Handle, also refers to ashes from a fire.
er Load.
eruko The handle of a hoe or farming tool.
erupe Dirt.
eruwa funfun If herb (Andropogon Gayanus ).
s Dye.
s - luko Purple dye.
Eshinrinmofgbo Praise name for the Invisible Realm of the Ancestors
(Orun).
s Reply.
sin Last year.
Esinsin Fly.
eso Fruit, common offering for Forces in Nature (rs).
s The Spirit of the Divine Messenger, who also as a role as the Spirit
of the Divine Trickster and the Spirit of the Divine Enforcer.
esun If herb, elephant grass (Pennisetun purpureum ).
eti Ear.
to Personal elements of a ritual, variation on traditional rituals that
speak to the immediate need of the person or people involved.
etu Blue and white woven cloth.
etutu Atonement.
tt An offering designed to place the individual in alignment with the
will of the ancestors and the will of Nature.
ew Leaf.
ew If If herb (Uraria picta ).
ew - owo If herb, leaf of honor (Brillantisia patala ).
we Young person.
wo Which one?
ewo Taboo, religious restriction designed to keep a person on their path
of destiny.
ewu Danger.
ew Grey hair, or white hair, a sign of dignity.
eukwu Danger, peril.
ewure Female goat.
eyi This.
eyiti That, or that which.
E
e You.
b Boiled gari, vicinity depending on context.
bi Fault, guilt.
b Family.
bd The bank of the river, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
bti Temple, sacred shrine.
ebe Request.
ebo Life force offering to either Forces of Nature (rs) or ancestors
(Egn).
bora Strong, brave man, also a reference to the Forces of Nature
(rs), that provide protection, ie the Divine Messenger (s), the
Spirit of the Guardian of Consciousness (Osun), the Spirit of the Tracker
(ss), and the Spirit of Iron (gn).
ebn Gift.
ebura tapa If herb (Nupe Egungun ).
eburu Destructive elemental spirit.
eda Creature.
dn A rod or a staff, also the name of the male aspect of the Spirit of
the Earth (Onile).
dn r Thunderstone, sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
da - ro A pun, commonly used in If scripture to make a spiritual
point through the use of humor.
edn Ax, sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sango).
f Singing and clowning during ceremonies honoring the Maternal
Ancestors (Gelede), also refers to making a joke.
f Green vegetables.
efon Buffalo, sacred to the Spirit of Wind (Oya).
fri Headache.
efun White chalk, sacred to the Spirit of the King of the White Cloth
(Obtl) and the Spirit of the Ocean (Olkun).
efn Charm or spell usually associated with creating some form of
attraction.
efunle If herb, leaf of good fortune Evouns alsinoides ).
gb Community of people with a common purpose, or a society of
people.
gbe Cooked beans.
egbe Companion.
Egbgb Spirit honored by the society of women (ymi).
egede Medicine used for protection against the Spirit of Death (Iku)
egbn Elder.
egun Thorn on a bush.
ehin Back.
hin - la The future.
eiye Bird.
eiyele Bird of the house, a reference to elemental spirit of a bird
worshipped by the society of women (Iymi).
eja Fish.
ej Blood, sacred to most Forces in Nature (rs).
ej Court case.
jo If The interpretation of If scripture (Od) during divination.
Ekb Welcome.
eketa Third.
eko Cornstach gruel.
k Teaching, education.
kkk The teaching of false doctrine, or the teaching of inaccurate
information.
k Mm Spiritual lessons, the study of spiritual matters.
eko mimu Cornstach cruel.
ekn Weeping, also refers to Ancestor masquerade.
ekun Tears.
ekn Leopard, sacred to the Spirit of Iron (gn).
l The Spirit of Purity, the First Reincarnation of the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml). It is also the name given to the ceremony that celebrates the
first harvest of yams. This ceremony is an important aspect of the If
calender of seasonal celebrations.
ela If herb (Epiphytic Orchidaceae ).
Eld Creator, associated with the power center between the eyes.
eld Pig.
Elgb A person of good character, also refers to one of the aspects of
the Divine Messenger (s).
Elgra The aspect of the Divine Messenger (s) associated with the
Spirit of the Trickster.
liye Bird woman, reference to a woman who works with an elemental
bird spirit in the soceity of women (Iymi).
elni Person dancing with the mask of the Chameleon (Agemo).
elri Witness.
esin Horse.
esisu Queen aunt, used in some forms of If medicine.
t Leprosy.
et Guinea hen, sacred to the Spirit of Destiny (rnml) and the
Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
t If medicine that is burned on a fire.
ew Beauty.
w Beans.
w Also.
ewon If herb (Acacia ataxacantha ).
wn Chain.
y Cultural group of people.
eyin Egg.
F
fa To pull.
f To wipe, or to clean.
f To pull.
fadk Silver, sacred to If.
ffose To predict the future.
ffsese The use of ritual to transform problems.
faiya To charm or allure.
farabal To be calm.
farapam To be calm.
fri To give a haircut with a razor.
fe A long time.
fr Flute.
f To love.
fel To act with importance based on holding a position of
responsibility.
fniyawo To marry.
fere The gathering of rain clouds.
fi By, with or to depending on context.
fi - apatab The use of shield in self defense.
fi - sefn To give an order.
fib To hide from view.
fidan To explore a mystery.
ffaragb Incarnation, the belief in souls returning to earth in different
bodies.
fifraeni Self esteem.
fifoknsin Spiritual devotion.
fifwse To do something with reverence.
fij To forgive.
fijb To give respect.
fil Cap.
fim To perform initiation.
fipata To make soup.
fr The greatest.
firbo To make a life Force Offering.
fiatla Lamp, traditional If lamps are made from pottery, they burn
palm oil with a cotton wick.
f To wash.
f To break.
fiya To be afraid, or fearful.
fj Blind.
fojkoj To face a problem head on.
forbal To treat with reverence, to worship.
ffe The ability to perform miracles.
folrin To move with dignity.
fnahan To offer guidance.
fowlrn To act with patience.
fun For.
funfun White.
fnwiniwini To drizzle, considered a blessing from the Spirit of the
Wind (Oya).
fnlflorun To give freely, to do something because it is the right
thing to do.
fnninimol To offer enlightenment.
f The sound made by the wind, the voice of the Spirit of the Wind
(Oya).
fye Light.
gn Identical, exactly
gri Cassava meal.
ga Excellent, elevated.
gala Deer.
gngan Traditional drum.
gl Head wrap made from cloth.
gnd Strong man.
gd If system of topographical astrology, the study of the spiritual
influence of planets on the landscape.
Gld Masquerade soceity dedicated to honoring the ancestoral
Mothers.
gelete At ease.
gere Trail.
gidigidi Completely, extremely also refers to a large Buffalo sacred to
the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
giri With courage, courageous action.
gl Gold.
gori To ascend, to experience spiritual growth.
gory To receive a title, to become a King (Oba).
g To be stupid.
goloto Stupid.
gmb Facial scars indicating lineage.
gun To climb.
gn To be tall.
GB
gba The sound of wood breaking, this implies that something is
happening quickly.
gb To accept or take.
gbabe To forget.
gbada Knife with large blade.
gbdn To enjoy.
gbdr To pray.
gbagbo To believe.
gbaguda Cassava.
gbjm The profession of being a barber, sacred to the Spirit of Iron
(gn).
gbajumo Gentleman.
gbngangbngan Arbitrary movement, scattered.
gbangba Open place, open space.
gbni to possess.
gbnja Kola nut with two halves, generally not used for divination.
gbarada Immense.
gbrajo To gather, to form an assembly.
gb To lift.
H
h Expression of amazement.
hal To threaten.
han To scream or shout.
hn To be obvious.
he To pick up.
hen Yes, expression used by If priests to confirm that someone has
accurately recited portions of oral scripture (Od).
h To boil.
hun To weave.
hw To behave.
hw - ar - oko To be rude.
h-uw - ik To act with malicious intent.
I
I Him, her, it.
iba Should.
b Homage, or respect, used to express respect for Forces in Nature
(rs).
bj Spoiled.
bamol Spiritual Forces that are worthy of respect.
ib pjpj Serious fever.
ibaral Self control, cool headed.
ib There
beji Twins, also refers to the Spirit of Twins.
bej or The power of the Spirit of Twins (bej).
ibeg Pray, devotion.
bta Triplet, also the Spirit of Triplets sacred to the Spirit of the
Ancestors (Egn).
br Fear.
ibi After birth, also refers to a condition in which a person is not in
alignment with their destiny.
Ibkej dmr Praise name for the Source of Creation (Oldmar),
meaning: "Second to the Creator."
ble Person of a particular place, who is from that place.
bn Anger.
ibit Where.
b Small implement used to determine the orientation of a verse (Od)
of If scripture used in divination. The orientation may determine the
prospects of good fortune or bad luck.
ibode The gate at the entrance to a town.
bogibpe Person who worships many Forces in Nature (rs).
boj Veil that covers the face, used in ritual to cover the face of a
medium.
ibji Shade.
bor If ritual performed to elevate a person's consciousness.
bors The worship of Forces in Nature (rs).
ibu Breadth.
bl - run Sick bed.
bl - ik Death bed.
ibsn - k Cemetery, sacred to the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
ibuyin Respect.
id Sword.
idabo Iyerosun marked with the symbols of If scripture (Od) on an If
divination tray for the purpose of making a blessing.
dl Distance, meaning a long distance from the house.
dn Magic trick.
dnw Examination.
idsi Comments.
dw Consulting divination.
ide Beads worn by elders on the left wrist to indicate that they have
been through some form of initiation.
dn Obstacle, considered a form of bad luck in If divination.
ide Brass, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
ds Action in violation of taboo.
idi Waist.
dl Family lineage.
dode Hunting.
dn Sweet flavor.
dr Standing.
If Wisdom of Nature, also refers to the traditional religion of Yorb
culture.
If awo kok Bowl used to hold the palm nuts (ikin) used for If
divination.
If - in Telepathy.
Ifiyable Mystic vision.
faraenisye Self esteem.
farun A piece of iron looped over the fingers to protect the fingers when
drawing a bow.
Ifyelele Alignment with personal destiny.
If Olokn Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml) meaning;
"Diviner of the Sea."
f Love.
f - tinwa Free - will, meaning: "Love is a choice of character."
f - buburu Hatred, meaning: "Love destroyed by negativity."
fhinti Patron.
f - inrere Good intentions.
frani Self respect, meaning: "Vision of love."
feseji Forgiveness.
fiy Alarm.
foribal Giving respect.
fryn Anointing, part of the initiation process.
foknsin Devotion.
fowrik Natural death at old age, considered a blessing by If.
fun intestines, on occasion used as an offering to Forces in Nature
(rs).
iga Court yard of an elder.
igan Piece of cloth.
igb Time.
igb Calabash, take, eggplant depending on context. Eggplant is
sacred to the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
gb History.
igbademu Calabash used for making food offerings (adimu) to Forces of
Nature (rs) and to the ancestors (Egn).
igbado Corn, sacred to the Divine Messenger (s) and to the Spirit of
the Guardian of the head (Osun).
gbgb Belief, faith.
gbl Deliverance, salvation.
gbl Cemetery, sacred to the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
gbamole Calabash of light, reference to the primal polarity of Creation
at the beginning of time.
igbe Punishment.
gbe Shout.
igbs Debt.
gb Forest.
igsiaiy Way of life.
gbn Snail, sacred to the Spirit of the King of the White Cloth (Obtl).
igbo Coward.
igb Forest.
Igbd Place of spiritual initiation, meaning either; "Sacred Grove," or
"Womb of the Forest."
Igbf Sacred Grove used for worshiping the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml).
Igbd rs Sacred place used to initiate a person into the mysteries of
a particular Forces in Nature (rs).
Igbiya Courage, determination, meaning: "Sacred Grove of the
Mothers."
igbwllr Healing, elevation of consciousness by transfering
spiritual power (ase) through the hands.
gboro Street, road.
gbse In the future.
gd If incantation, also If medicine for providing protection against
the Spirit of Death (Iku).
igi Tree, stick, piece of wood.
igiripa Full grown.
igi - isn Match.
igi - osn Camwood tree, source of If medicine (irosn).
igi - pe Palm tree.
ig Bottle.
gk Spiritual growth or development, the consequence of being in
alignment with personal destiny.
igun Vulture, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
Ignw Sitting as King (Oba), meaning sitting on the throne wearing a
crown (Ade) in an official capacity.
igunnuko Tall cylindrical mask for the Spirit of the Ancestors (Egn).
iherehere Bit by bit. (First word in If scripture ie: "Bit by bit we eat
the head of the rat."
ih Hole.
ihoho Naked, undressed.
ija Fight.
jb Trouble, difficulty.
jagun Warfare, combat.
jakdi Martial art, a form of wrestling.
jl Songs used by hunters to praise the memory of their Ancestors
(Egn), who were also hunters.
jnbn Trouble.
ijanwon Scraps.
jp Turtle, an aspect of the Divine Messenger (s) who
communicates directly with the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
ijatijati Dead fruit of a palm tree.
ijet Day before yesterday.
iji Fear, also a reference to thunder storms, the voice of the Spirit of the
Wind (Oya).
j Dance.
jo - ara - eni - lj The concept of self, the conscious self
jkn Stem used as rope.
jy Chief.
jo Jealousy.
jos The other day.
ikun Squirrel.
ikn Stomach.
il Facial marks.
il Ochra, sacred to the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
laiy If medicine for courage.
ilaji Middle.
ilana Holy principle.
il rn East, Spirits of the East depending on context.
il House.
il - ar Blacksmith shop.
ile ati ona House and road, a reference to all the property that a person
owns.
il - ek Court house.
Il If The Spiritual capitol of traditional Yorb culture, also refers to
a Spiritual City in the Realm of the Ancestors (kl run).
ildi Meeting place for the male council of elders (Ogboni).
il Ground.
il aiy The earth, usually refers to the surface of the earth.
ild Top soil.
Ilgbn Small pox.
lek Bead.
ilm Dawn.
Il gr Praise name for the Spirit of the Earth (Onil) meaning:
"House of Perfection."
J
ja Reach.
j To fight, to struggle.
j To get, to find out.
jde To go out, to emerge.
jdeogun To prepare for combat.
jdekr To come out of a place.
jdi To attack.
jff To be active.
jagun To make war, also the title of a military leader.
jagunjagun Warrior.
jagba Wrestling competition.
Jkta To fight with stones, also the Spirit of the Stone Thrower.
jmb Accident.
je To eat.
j To allow.
Jebl To rule as chief.
je ewo Bad luck that comes as the result of violation of taboo.
jf To experience good fortune.
jege Softly.
jj To swear an oath.
je ohun Bad luck that comes as the result of violation of taboo.
jk To allow.
jem To be connected with.
jeun To eat.
jw To confess.
j To wake.
jbtjibata Soaking.
jgb Mask that represents a Spirit of the Water.
jigi Mirror, glass.
jije To eat.
jikelewi To pounce.
jnn To be far.
j To dance, to light a fire, to burn depending on context.
joko Sit down.
jn To be on fire.
jo To be similar.
joj
j Excuse me, forgive me.
jowo Grant favor.
ju Surpass, to excel.
jb Praises, a request that respect be accepted by the Spirits.
jugbna Assistant.
kla Bitter kola nut, sacred to most Forces in Nature (rs) and used
in If for a simplified form of divination.
kolobo Sore throat.
knk Bullfrog.
kni To teach, to give instruction.
k - nl - ab Circumcision.
kkan Each, one each.
korin To sing.
ksr
To memorize.
ku To die.
kutute Stump of a tree.
kukunduku Yam.
kkr Short.
kun To divide into parts, to set on fire depending on context.
kn To be full.
kunle Kneel to the ground as a gesture of respect to either a sacred
shrine or an elder.
kunrin To sing.
kr To be short.
kurkur Fog.
Kurumu Round or spherical shape.
L
l To appear.
l To dream.
lrngunkn Cloth used for making clothing for Kings (Oba).
lrin In the middle.
ly To be alive.
labalb Butterfly.
lbel Secretly.
lgbra To be strong.
lgidigba Black beads made from palm nut shells worn around the
waist by women for fertility.
lagogo To ring a bell.
lik Immortal, the term Immortals is a reference to Forces in Nature
(rs).
l - l The beginning of time, also refers to a mystical state in which
the person experiences a connection with the Source of Being
(Oldmar).
l - l All that would be, meaning forever into the future.
lils Innocent, not guilty.
lim Unholy, in violation of taboo, not consecrated.
linpkun Without beginning or end, immortal.
lipin Infinite.
Lky Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn).
lkgb Rheumatism.
ll To dream.
ll Touch the Earth, a sign of respect to elders
llju To enlighten.
lr On.
lw To be rich, having abundance
lo To go, more than depending on context.
l Indirect.
lodon The southern leg of the cross marked on the If divination tray.
lkan Brave.
L - l'la Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning;
"Master of tomorrow."
L - l'n Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning:
"Master of the Day."
L - l tunla - plu - Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml),
meaning: "Master of the day after tomorrow."
lwolwo Recently.
l To strike.
lukoun Penis.
lnkk Fighting with fists.
M
ma Indeed.
m I will.
Mag Chief Priest of the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
Mgbmit Spirit who shapes consciousness.
mjl Poison.
ml Charm used to prevent being physically attacked.
ml Ox.
Mana - mana Lightning, physical manifestation of the Spirit of
Lightning (Sng).
mrw Palm fronds, sacred to most Forces in Nature (rs), used as
clothing for rituals involving the Spirit of Iron (gn).
ms Do not.
Mason Mediums of the Spirit of Ancestors (Egngun) who dress in
masquerade to honor the Ancestors (Egn).
mb To exist, to be alive.
mbo Coming, expression meaning: "I will return."
mj Two.
ml How many?
mrin Four.
mrndnlgn Sixteen, also used to refer to a system of divination
used by rs initiates that is based on the first sixteen verses of If
divination (Od).
meta Three.
mw Ten.
mi To swallow, to breathe.
mmo Sacred, holy.
mrn Another.
mo I.
moji Performance of Ancestor masquerade (Egngn).
moj To know.
moru Hot weather.
mo To build.
N
n The same.
n First of all.
nba Joining.
nfe To want.
nfe Loving.
nje Well.
njo To dance, dancing.
ni To say, to be, someone, that depending on context.
nb There.
nb Here.
ngbgbogbo Always.
ngbn Then
ngbt When.
nihin Here.
nikan Alone.
nlt To have to, must do.
nle At home.
nm Intelligent, skilled, wise.
npa About, through.
nrl Humble, a reflection of good character in If.
ntrp Because.
ntrt Because.
ntt In truth.
niwn In moderation.
nje Then, therefore.
nko Not.
nk What about?
nkoja Passing.
nl Big.
nlo Going.
nmu Drinking.
nrin Walking.
nro Thinking.
nse Making.
ns Go on.
n To wipe, to be lost.
O
o He, she and it.
ob Kola nut used in simplified systems of If divination.
ob Female gender.
ognrin Woman.
obirikiti Circle.
Obrt Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning: "The
Immense Orbit."
bo Vagina.
obuko Male goat, sacred as food for a feast in honor of Forces in Nature
(rs).
o dbo Goodbye.
de Outside, outside of the house, outside of town.
de - ay The entire world.
de ssiy The present time.
de n Today.
de - run The entire invisible realm, home of the ancestors (Egn)
and the Immortals (rs), the Source of Creation.
d Mj Verse of If scripture (Od).
ohun Thing.
ohn Sound, voice.
oji Storm.
jj Shadow spirit created by the physical manifestation of a person's
negative emotions.
ojise Messengers.
j Rain.
jl Boa constrictor.
jntarg Wife of the Spirit of Death (Ik).
oj Eye, or face depending context.
oj - se Power in the eyes, spiritual power that can be seen coming
out of the eyes when a person is in an altered state of consciousness,
also refers to Mystic Vision.
oj - aiye Face of the earth, surface of the earth.
ojbo Shrine, meaning: "Facing what it is we worship."
Ojugbede Chief priest of the Spirit of Iron (gn) in Il If.
ojubona Teacher, usually second eldest priest in a society of elders.
oj - in Inner eye, the ability to see visions.
ojl Dream vision, also trance vision.
ojlm Acquaintance.
ojumo Dawn.
Oj Od The first sixteen verses of If scripture (Od).
oj - ri Grave.
oj n Road way.
Oj opn The north arm of the cross marked on the If divination tray.
olko Farmer.
Olkun Spirit of the Ocean.
Olkun - su - elusu Female aspect of the Spirit of the Ocean.
Olnmoro Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning:
"Owner of Cleanliness."
Olore Spirit who shapes the head of infants before birth.
olr Vertical.
Olor Spirit that organizes personal consciousness, guardian Spirit.
Olr Chief.
Olor - Mrn Spirit who protects towns, meaning: "Spirit with Four
Heads."
olry - gn Vultures comb, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
Olosa Spirit of the Lagoon.
Olbamb Praise name for the Spirit of Lightning (Sng), meaning:
"The Creator helped me before I had this child."
Oluri The Spirit of the Rivers.
Olgb - rere Praise name for the Spirit of the Mother of Fishes
(Yemoja), meaning: "Giver of Good Things."
Olghohn Hex initiated by members of the council of male elders
(Ogboni) against persons who violate community taboo.
Ol irin Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "Chief of
Iron."
Olkso r Praise name for the Spirit of Lightning (Sng), meaning:
"The Controller of Lightning."
oluku Friend.
olkll Each.
Olumaki Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "Chief of
Strength."
Olmmami ktr Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml),
meaning: "The Chief Averter."
Olumu The Spirit of Understanding.
Olnrin - dd - k - gt Praise name of the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml), meaning: "Black Man from Ogeti Hill."
Olrj Praise name for the Spirit of Lightning (Sng), meaning:
"King who must not see rain."
Oluorogbo Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "Chief of the Medicine of Truth."
Oluoyo Praise name for the Spirit of Lightning (Sng), meaning: "Chief
of Oyo."
olrnlw Helper.
Olrin The chief of the male council of elders (Ogboni).
olsn Worshipper.
Olusonso Praise name for the deified Ancestor who founded the city of
Ile Ife (Oramife).
Olwa Praise name for the Source of Being (Olrun), meaning: "Chief of
Character."
Olw - mi - m - im - tn Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml), meaning: "Who can most understand the Source of Being."
oluware The person in question.
Olwk Praise name for the Spirit of the Wind (Oya), meaning: "The
controller of those who wear the Ancestral masquerade."
Olweri Spirit of the River (Male aspect of Yemoja).
Oluwo Chief If diviner of the male council of elders (Ogboni).
Oluwo Igbo Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "Chief Diviner of the Forest."
ons Worker.
onsgn Herbal doctor, meaning: "Owner of the power of medicine."
omisw Trader.
onw fnfn Praise name for the Source of Creation (Oldmar),
meaning: "Owner of Pure Character."
onyebye Valuable.
onje Wait.
Onshe System of divination sacred to the Spirit of the King of White
Cloth (Obtl) used in criminal cases to determine guilt or innocence.
gun Medicine.
Ooh shoko Traditional introduction to If songs, the response is bani.
oore Good turn, good deed.
Orn The sun, The Spirit of the Sun.
run Smell.
oorun Sleep.
s Force in Nature (Same as rs).
sl Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl),
meaning: "Spirit of Mystic Vision."
s gbowjn Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "The Spirit who lives in the Distant Forest."
soko Spirit of the Farm.
Opl Wife of the Spirit of Destiny (rnml)), chain used for If
divination, meaning: "Puzzle of the Palm Tree."
opepe Young.
pin sn The end of a ritual.
p Post.
op Window.
pp Street.
pr Liar.
orere Street.
ori Cornstarch porridge.
or The Spirit of Consciousness, also means head in common usage.
or - peere Patterns of conscience.
or - pr Personal destiny.
or - ff Headache.
or - gbn Hot headed, meaning short tempered.
orgun mrin ay The four directions of Creation.
or ibi Lack of alignment with personal destiny, bad luck, misfortune.
or ire Alignment with personal destiny, good luck, good fortune.
orin Song.
or in Inner self.
ork Praise poem, invocation of spirit, meaning: "Praising
Consciousness."
orile Lineage name.
orl Name of a Nation.
rs Spiritual Force in Nature that guides evolution through the
expression of its own unique form of consciousness.
rs agbala Spiritual guardian of the back yard, identified in If
scripture as the younger brother of the Spirit of the Farm (rs Oko).
rs Alase Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "Spirit with the Power of Dreams."
Osibiriki Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "The One
who bursts out suddenly."
sn Imole Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "Chief of
Spirits."
Osu Moon, Spirit of the Moon, Daughter of the Spirit of Lightning
(Sng).
Osugbo The word for male council of elders in some regions of Nigeria,
same as Ogboni.
smr The Spirit of the Rainbow.
Osun The Spirit who protects individual consciousness.
osn Camwood powder.
Osn dudu Black camwood powder, sacred to the Spirit of the Tracker
(ss).
Osn pupa Red camwood powder, sacred to the Spirit of Iron (gn).
osusu Bunch.
tit Wooden stool.
tit Truth.
otosi Destitute, in poverty.
Otu The priest who makes offerings on behalf of the King (Oba).
tura Mj Verse of If scripture used for divination.
Otrpon Mj Verse of If scripture used for divination.
un He, she, him, her, it when spoken with emphasis.
we Proverb.
ow Money.
w Trade.
w eyo Cowrie shells used as money.
owu Hammer.
owuro Morning.
O'yansa Mother of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya), meaning: "Mother of
Nine."
Oye The Spirit of the Harmattan Wind, lives in Igeti hill with the Divine
Messenger, the male aspect of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
ye Knowledge of the heart, emotions.
ygyig The primal stone of Creation, the Source of Creation.
oyin honey, sacred to the Spirit of the River (Osun).
oyikiti Surrounded.
oyun Pregnancy.
O
o You.
Oba King, one of approximately twenty - one regional monarches in
traditional Yoruba society.
Oba lr Praise name for the Source of Creation (Oldmar),
meaning: "Almighty Chief."
Oba gbly Spirit of the Four Seasons, meaning: "King of the
Calabash of the Earth."
Oba - i gb Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "King of the Forest."
Obakso Praise name for the Spirit of Lightning (Sng), meaning:
"King of Kso." (This name is frequently mistranslated to mean: "The
King is not Dead.")
Obalaiye Praise name for the Spirit of Infectious Disease (Babaluaiy),
meaning: "King of the hot earth."
Obalofun Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl),
meaning: "King of Pure Speech."
Obalfn Spirit who protects Artists.
Obanla Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl),
meaning: "King of Purity."
Oba obnrin Queen Mother.
Oba Oke Spirit of the Mountain.
Oba Om Praise name for the male aspect of the Spirit of the Ocean
(Olkun), meaning: "King of the Water."
Oba run Praise name for the Source of Creation (Oldmar),
meaning: "King of the Invisible Realm of the Immortals."
obara Rope.
br Mj Verse of If scripture (Od).
Obayya Praise name for the Source of Creation (Oldmar), meaning:
"Highest King."
Obtl Spirit of the King of White Cloth.
Obtl gbingbin iki Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White
Cloth (Obtl), meaning: "The Big Big Spirit of the King of the White
Cloth."
Oba - ti - l Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl), meaning: "King of Vision."
Obba Goddess of the Iba River.
ob Soup.
be Knife, medicine for soup depending on context.
obe - oljumeji Knife with a double edged blade.
obe gbaguda Knife sacred to the Spirit of Destiny (rnml).
obo Monkey,
oboto Lump.
bun Market.
obuntun Bride.
d Paint made from natural materials.
odan Grass, grass land, shade tree depending on context.
ode Hunter.
ode mata Spotted medicine, sacred to the Spirit of the Tracker (ss).
od Young person.
dmobinrin Young woman.
dmoknrin Young man.
odun Year, or time of any seasonal celebration.
dndn Medicinal herb.
of Arrow.
ofafa Tree bear.
f Free.
ofin Palace of the King (Oba).
ofe A charm used to induce astral travel, or an out of body experience.
f Free, no charge.
of Incantation, invocation.
f Loss by death.
of - se Power of the word, word of power, reference to the ability to
make effective prayers and a reference to the words that are used as
keys to invocation.
g Chameleon.
oka - ik Struggle with the Spirit of Death (Ik), life and death struggle.
okn Physical heart.
kan One.
okanjuwa Greedy.
knkn Exact spot, place in the distance.
knrn Mj Verse of If scripture (Od).
krmh Praise name for the Spirit of the Divine Messenger (s).
oke Bag.
kkluj Mighty and awesome, praise name for any of the Forces in
Nature (rs).
oko Husband.
ok Hoe, garden tool.
ok Boat.
k Spear.
okn Heart.
oknrin Invalid, person protected by the Spirit of the King of the White
Cloth (Obtl).
ol Honor, wealth and tomorrow, depending on context.
la Tomorrow.
olnla Great honor, great wealth.
ole Red steamed beans, used as If medicine to induce pregnancy.
ol Embryo.
le Lazy person.
olgbn Sage.
opeyinb Pineapple.
opolo Frog.
plp Many, much.
pn Bowl.
rnyn Spirit of the First King (Oba) of Oyo.
Oramife Spirit of the Father of the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
oran Affair.
rngun Spirit of the grandson of Odduwa.
ranmiyn The Spirit of War, considered the Father of the Spirit of
Lightning (Sng) in Il If.
ore Friend.
r Word, also refers to the Spirit of the Power of the Word.
or Wealth.
r jnle Words of deep esoteric meaning.
orun Sky, or neck.
run The Invisible Realm, home of the Ancestors and the Immortals.
run - Apadi Home of disruptive earth bound ancestor spirits.
rungan Child of The Spirit of the Mother of Fishes (Yemoja) and in
some regions the Spirit of the Fire at the Center of the Earth (Aganju).
rnml Spirit of Destiny, the prophet of If, physical incarnation of
the Spirit of Purity (l).
run k Spirit of the Mountains in the Invisible Realm of the
Immortals.
Osa Lagoon, sacred to the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
s Mj Verse of If scripture (Od).
sn Daytime, afternoon.
osn Fruit.
Osan Horse tail fan, carried by elders as a tool for offering blessings.
Osan agblumo African star apple (chrysophyllum africanum ).
snyn Spirit of Herbs and Medicine.
Osara Forces in Nature, same as rs, meaning: "One who gathers
children."
s Four day ritual week.
ose Soap.
srmgb Praise name for the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl).
Os Sng Wooden double headed ax used as a dance wand for
initiates into the mysteries of the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
sgbwa Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning:
"The One who brings the right hand path of Character," or "The One who
brings Good Character."
sn Imol Praise name for the Spirit of Iron (gn), meaning: "First
Among the Immortals."
ss The Spirit of the Tracker.
sn Hottest part of the day.
Ososo nirun agbon Pointed beard, symbolic reference to a wise person
or a wise ancestor.
Osun The Spirit of the River, fertility, sensuality and abundance.
ota Enemy, male stone (falic shaped) depending on context.
oti Liquor, used as an offering to the ancestors (Egn) and to Forces in
Nature (rs).
otin Beer made from corn.
P
pa To kill, to betray, to break, to suffer, to cut depending on the
context.
pp Myself, yourself, his self, her self, even, especially depending
on context.
pad To return, to alter to change, depending on context.
pd To meet.
pkt Calabash.
Pkelem Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml), meaning:
"The Calabash of Wisdom."
pk Cassava.
pkr Night ritual for the Spirit of elevating the dead (r) at funerals.
palpatn Shape shifting, usually from human form to animal form
and back to human form.
pl To ask a riddle, usually a riddle with some moral point involved.
pam To keep safe.
panum To keep quiet.
pra Suddenly, loud.
paranganda Bludgeon, hit with a club.
par To disappear, to be destroyed.
pari To complete.
pariwo Shout.
pasan Whip.
pase To give an order.
pta - pta Completely finished, over with.
pe That, to say that.
pl Lineage marks on the face.
peleke To increase.
pp Elevated floor space used as a stool.
peregun If herb used to mark boundaries, sacred to the Divine
Messenger (s).
ps To prepare.
ps To be present.
pe Call.
p To be late.
R
r To buy.
ra To perish.
r To crawl.
ran To spin.
rn To send for.
rn To sew.
ranti To remember.
rr Song.
rr At all, not at all.
rri To shave the head, the first step of initiation.
r To go off, to set a trap depending on context.
rdede Unclean, messy.
rm To draw towards, to be attracted to.
rere Good, kind.
reti await.
re Yours.
r To tire.
run Perish.
S
s To apply medicine.
s To dry in the sun, to run off, to escape depending on context.
s Season, designated length of time.
sb Usually.
Saraga Spirit that shapes consciousness (Or), meaning: "The
Strange place of Uniqueness."
slo To run away.
sn To crack, to make a loud noise.
sn To be well.
san To reward, to pay.
snm Sky.
sanra To be overweight.
sanw To pay money.
sr To run.
sari To rub medicine on the scalp.
s To cook.
se To make.
se ese Death of a pregnant woman.
segi Waist bed for protection and fertility.
Sgr - Algbj Praise name for the Divine Messenger (s).
S
s stale, only depending on context.
s To pick up.
sbuku Disgraceful.
sj The practice of magic associated with astral travel among women's
secret societies (Iyaami).
sn To flow.
snbo To overflow
Sng The Spirit of Lightning, also the fourth Alfin of Oyo.
snku Premature death.
sansan Straight.
sro To meditate, to think.
se To do, to cause, to be, to make depending on context.
sebi Suppose.
sgg Casting lots, casting some form of divination.
segun To make war.
sk To lie.
skk Casting lots, casting some form of divination.
slara To be jealous.
slri To promise.
selse To injure.
s 'p To work a hex, to invoke some form of protection.
sese Just.
Sigidi Messenger for warrior spirits who protect a particular family
lineage.
Sigidi Sugudu The Spirit of Nightmares.
sigun To lead warriors into battle.
ss To worry.
skoto Pants.
sor To celebrate the annual feast for the Spirit of the Power of the Word
(Or).
stito To have faith.
s To watch.
Sponn Small pox and the Spirit of Small Pox.
sw To spy.
T
t To sell.
ta To shot, pepper flavor depending on context.
ta - a - o -rfn Buffalo hunters.
tr Straight.
tabi Or.
Two First born of twins, either male or female, according to Yoruba
tradition the first born twin is the youngest.
tak To refuse.
tlk Poor person.
tan To finish.
tn To trust.
tani Who?
tann To light a lamp.
tp Illness caused by eating to much sweet food.
tara Pebble, small stone.
Tf If initiation.
te To establish.
t To press.
t To spread out.
tt Thin
tel To follow.
tl Already.
temut emu Hassock.
tenum To emphasise.
tete If herb used as medicine considered the parent of all herbs
(Amaranthus candatus Spinach).
ttpnl If herb used as medicine considered the parent of all herbs
(Amaranthus candatus Spinach).
ti Property.
t To push.
t That.
tij To be shy.
tklra Self.
tkara - eni Total self.
tile Even.
Ti npoj ik d Praise name for the Spirit of Destiny (rnml),
meaning: "The Changer of the determined day of Death."
Tm The Brother of the Spirit of Lightning (Sng).
tmtm Small.
tin Thus.
tinrin To sneer.
tntn Sincere.
titi Until.
titun New or something new.
t Equal, enough, the word is used at the end of If incantations as a
seal to indicate that a prayer is complete and the power of the prayer has
been transfered out in the world.
tbi ode Hunter.
t To approach, to follow.
tr Straight.
toro To request.
tu Paddle, to losen, alone depending on context.
tk To scatter.
tlsi Force, necessity.
tn To repeat.
tnd Reborn.
tutu Cool
Y
ya To split.
y To turn aside.
y To flood.
yakata To straddle.
yalayala Swift.
yn To choose.
yanmoti Sesame seed.
yanran Good.
Yansan Mother of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
yara Room.
yra To be quick.
yt Different.
Yemideregbe Praise name or the Spirit of the Ocean (Olkun).
Yem Wife of the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl).
Yemw Wife of the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl).
yesi Who.
Yewa Spirit of the Yewa River.
yeye Mother.
Yeye Aiye Praise name for the Spirit of the Earth (Onil), meaning:
"Mother of the Earth."
yebe Lavish.
yewere Worthless.
yy Foolishness.
yi This
yibi Greatness.
yio Will.
yo To appear.
SPIRITUAL FORCES
Aj Spirit of the Whirlwind.
Abanigbele Spirit of Fire, this is a reference to the animating
consciousness that exists inside a burning flame.
Agayu Spirit of the Fire at the Center of the Earth.
gbgb Spirit of the Forest that causes trouble.
Agemo Spirit of the Forest worshipped in the Ijebu region of Nigeria.
guala Spirit of Venus.
jl - mpin Spirit who shapes the head and forms the consciousness
of each new born child.
j Spirit of a Bird used by women (ymi) to invoke powers used for
abundance and justice. This same power is used to consecrate the
crown of the Yorb Kings. Also used as a reference to money or
abundance.
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Aje Saluga Elemental Spirit of Abundance, sacred to the Spirit of the
Mothers (ymi).
Akd Spirit of one of the Prophet rnml's first two students.
Aln Spirit that helps shape consciousness prior to birth, "The
Merciful One."
Aldndn run Guardian Spirit of personal destiny in the Realm of
the Ancestors, the Source of personal destiny.
mk Spirit of the Sun.
Amsan Spirit of one of the children of the Spirit of the Wind (Oya).
Apetebi Spirit of the wife of the Spirit of Destiny (rnml).
pr - in Spirit of the inner self.
Aroni Spirit of the forest, elemental spirit with the body of a human
and the head of a dog.
Arku Spirit who transforms and elevates the spirit of the ancestors.
sed Spirit of one of the Prophet rnml first two students.
Abanigbele The Spirit of Fire, this is a reference to the animating
consciousness that exists inside a burning flame.
Babaluiy Spirit of the Surface of the Earth, this is the Spirit
associated with those infectious diseases that are carried by the wind
across the surface of the earth during dry and hot times of the year.
Dada The Spirit of Vegetables, also the guardian Spirit new born
children with large tufts of hair.
Ejufiri The Spirit that shapes consciousness, the foundation of inner
strength.
elekeji eni Spiritual double, higher self.
Erinl Spirit of Song.
s The Spirit of the Divine Messenger, who also as a role as the Spirit
of the Divine Trickster and the Spirit of the Divine Enforcer.
dn Spirit of the Male aspect of the Spirit of the Earth (Onil).
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Osun Spirit of the River, fertility, sensuality and abundance.
Oya Spirit of the Wind, Spirit of the River Niger.
rnyn Spirit of the First King (Oba) of Oyo.
rngun Spirit of the grandson of Odduwa.
Poripon Sigidi Spirit of Combat.
Saraga Spirit that shapes consciousness (Or), meaning: "The
Strange place of Uniqueness."
Sngbmi Spirit that shapes consciousness (Or), meaning: "Be Closer
to Me."
Sng Spirit of Lightning, also the fourth Alfin of Oyo.
Sigidi Messenger Spirit for warrior spirits who protect a particular
family lineage.
Sigidi S ugudu Spirit of Nightmares.
Sponn Spirit of Small Pox.
Yem Spirit of the Wife of the Spirit of the King of White Cloth (Obtl).
Yemw Spirit of the Wife of the Spirit of the King of White Cloth
(Obtl).
Yemja Spirit of the gn River, meaning: "Mother of Fishes."
PRAISE NAMES
S
Agongo ogo He Who Carries a Club.
Alajki One Who is Addressed First.
Amnisgn - mp He who has all the Knowledge of Powerful
Medicine.
Bara Strength.
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Elgb Spirit of Good Character.
Elgra Spirit of the Trickster.
Olf n - pk - l
SS
Ata - mts The Sharp Shooter.
Olog arare Master of Himself.
rs ipapo adun Spirit of Sweat Togetherness.
GN
Atnlrgn Hefty Hunter.
wlwl Rugged and Rough Spirit.
wny rs The Enraged Spirit.
Lky Chief of the Earth.
Ol irin Chief of Iron.
Olumaki Chief of Strength.
Oni're Chief of the Town of Ire.
Os ibiriki The One who Bursts out Suddenly.
sn Imole Chief of Spirits.
Olona Owner of the Road.
sn Imol First Among the Immortals.
OBTL
A - k - b - l Radiant White.
Albalese He Who Predicts the Future.
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Alamorere Owner of the Best Clay.
Oluorogbo Chief of the Medicine of Truth.
Oluwo Igbo Chief Diviner of the Forest.
sl Spirit of Mystic Vision.
s gbowjn The Spirit who lives in the Distant Forest.
r s Al ase Spirit with the Power of Dreams.
r sl Spirit who Creates Light.
rs - og'enia The Spirit who Owns Humans.
Oba - i gb King of the Forest.
Obalofun King of Pure Speech.
Obanla
King of Purity.
Obtl gbingbin iki The Big Big Spirit of the King of the White Cloth.
Oba - ti - l King of Vision.
srmgb Source of Good Things from the Forest.
Pkelem The Calabash of Wisdom.
OLKUN
jbaj The Spirit Who Wakes up to Discover Money.
Oba
AGANJU
Elek o. Owner of the Cave.
Olgb - rere
YEMJA
SNG
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rr Fast as Lightning.
Bmbi Spiritually Reborn.
Kbiys Greeting of Respect.
Kbys l Greeting of Respect.
Olbamb The Creator helped me before I had this child.
Ol kso r The Controller of Lightning.
Olrj King Who Must Not See Rain.
Oluoyo Chief of Oyo.
Obakso King of Kso.
OYA
Afefe - jeje Whirlwind.
Afriflglg Mysterious Wind.
jliy Winds of the Earth.
jlrun Winds of the Realm of the Ancestors.
Efufu - lege - lege
Gentle Breeze.
OSUN
Olodo Owner of the Brook.
OSNYN
Atoobajay The adequate Protector.
BABLUAIY
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ONILE
Il gr House of Perfection.
Yeye Aiye Mother of the Earth.
RNML
yn - awo - in - igb Ayan Tree is the Mystery of the Inner
Sanctum of the Sacred Grove.
Agbnire Hunter of Good Fortune.
Agbnrgn Hunter of the Medicine of Good Fortune.
Aje - ju - Oogn Stronger than Medicine.
A - k - m - - tn Not to Have Full Knowledge of You is to Fail.
Amiygn The Guardian of Medicine on Earth.
Amodd One Who Cuts through Sickness.
Aml If Owdy "The Savior of If from the Early Days.
A - sr - day One Who Makes Things Prosper.
Ibkej dmr Second to the Creator.
If Olokn Diviner of the Sea.
K - m - - ka - l Whom to know is to be saved.
L - l'la Master of tomorrow.
L - l'n Master of the Day.
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OLODMAR
km First Soul.
mi Mimo Spirit of All Wisdom.
Oga - ogo The Brave One.
Olwa Chief of Character.
Oba lr Almighty Chief.
Oba run King of the Invisible Realm of the Immortals.
Obayya Highest King.
Olj n Owner of the Day.
RUN
kl run The invisible realm of Spirit.
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l If The Spiritual capitol of traditional Yorb culture, also refers to a
Spiritual City in the Realm of the Ancestors (kl run).
ilogbon House of Wisdom, mystical home of the Spirit of Destiny
(rnml).
Ip - ok Ancestral home of the a person's spiritual shadow (ojiji), place
where the spirit of the deceased lingers if it does not receive proper
elevation.
sl - run The entire Invisible Realm of the Ancestors.
l - l The beginning of time.
de - run The entire invisible realm, home of the ancestors (Egn)
and the Immortals (rs), the Source of Creation.
Orta The boundary between the visible realm of Creation and the
invisible realm of Creation.
ygyig The primal stone of Creation, the Source of Creation.
nmf The six sacred directions, meaning the four directions of the
compass plus up and down, or the center axis.
run - Apadi Home of disruptive earth bound ancestor spirits