Odu Ejiogbe

EJI OGBE

Odus

Eji ogbe ,(ogbe meji)In every yoruba word , the meaning is always embedded in the context , hence the first Odu in hierachical order of the mystical energy is called ÈJI_OGBE` or ÒGBE MEJI`. Before giving a concrete explanation to the word ÈJI OGBE`, we must try to shield light on the word ÒDU`, and this denotes energy , The word ‘ODU’ is an extraction from the conjointed word ‘OLODUMARE’ , odu is just a short form of OLODUMARE. For proper understanding of ODU , we must get the real meaning of who is OLODUMARE or what is OLODUMARE. OLODUMARE is from three syllabic words , OLO -- ODU--- MARE. OLO means , the owner , the controller , the unique , the superior , the supreme , the ultimate , ODU means ,the energy ,the force , the power . the mysteries , the omni-present, MARE means , the heaven , the mystery place of higher spirit , the abode of the unique energy , the place where the supreme energy dwells,

From the above explanation of the word OLODUMARE( OLO-ODU-MARE),comes out the middle word ODU - THE ENERGY , THE FORCE . THE POWER THAT CREATES ALL THINGS , the energy that brings all things in to manifestation from(through) a unique and indestructible means , maintaining equilibrium through mystical form without losing his majesty. Bringing together the mental , emotional , spiritual and divine capabilities into play, using all power in his domain. Transfering these energies to it`s divinities, most especially to ORUNMILA, and other deities also learn and accept these energies as a primodial force in the universe. These were consequently transfered to other elders , or priests in its original form, using the system of sacrifice, ritual, prayer, fasting, initiations, moral habit, image, peace, positive mental state, night vigil, love, and courage to attract the unique force of this omnipresent GOD into our realities and existence.The odu teaches us the knowledge of these force and the peace to attain the light from the supreme energy and the belief that all is connected to one power , one energy , one source,one life , one contact and one force , through appeasment to different divinities and dieties responsible for each inexplicable phenomenon in the life of all beings. The secret of these odu(energy) starts with the understanding , knowledge and the consciousness of all the fundamental stories , mantra, stanzas, incantation, prayers, and believe in OLO-ODU-MARE( the owner of the energy), and the application of these to our life will give us the much needed light and illumination. ODU induces the inexplicable power in our life, and serves as inspiration to others if properly understood. lt is used to modify, control and deter all circumstance and negative energy within our enviroment and also in the universe .The odu connects the individual power with group force, blend it with the universe power to bring harmony and peace we desire from OLODUMARE. With the above notion of ODU, then we can delve on the first energy that brings everything into existence which is called EJI OGBE, or OGBE MEJI.

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EJI OGBE

The word OGBE literarily means to lift, illuminate, light, overcome, victory, sound, awareness, consciousness, creative thoughts, positive mental spirit, emotional feeling, intellectual and physical effectiveness. The word also means purity, wisdom, sound intellect, stable frame of mind, harmony, serenity and articulation of purpose to connect us to the universal energy. MEJI in yoruba means ‘TWO’. Two can also be translated into EJI, or MEEJI, hence when the energy thrown appears both at the left hand side and the right hand side, then we attach Meji or Eji to the ODU. If OGBE appears at the left hand side and also at the right hand side, then it is called OGBE MEJI, which can also be referred to as EJI-OGBE, but our interest here is that the ODU’s name is OGBE, while Meji or Eji is just the double or twice appearance of the ODU at both sides. While the word Meji or Eji has little or minor importance in the life of the energy, provided the name of Odu is properly understood, we can still use the word Meji or eji either before the odu or after the odu. lf it is used before an Odu, then Eji will be attached to the odu, for instance, EJIOGBE (ejioye, ejiiwori, ejiodi, etc). But if the word is used after an odu, we are to pronounce the odu like OGBE MEJI( oyeku meji, iwori meji, odi or idi meji, irosun meji etc). Indeed, the meaning of OGBEMEJI has been explained and analysed from the literary point of view, but ODU –OGBEMEJI- has a slightly different meaning but a more similar connotation when Babalawo(ifa priest) wants to explain the energy in the course of his divination. That is the chanting of Ifa stanzas are fundamental in giving out the real meaning, and each meaning corresponds to each sitaution and period, using all the necessary ATONA( pathfinders , which include, stone, isin(eke fruit), owo-eyo(cowries), omo ayo, egungun(broken bone), efo awo( broken pot). Ogbe meji emanates from OLODUMARE- the father of all energies- and it signifies goodness, fulfillment, positive vibration from the father of power, illumination and light from GOD. It goes on to denote peace of mind, happiness, love, friendship, success, hope, faith, believe in oneness of OLODUMARE, believe in all divinities, as an extension of GOD indwelling forces operating in the universe. OGBEMEJI is the desire for all that is good, support it with good intention , and focus all your attention to its fulfillment, and take all necessary spiritual step to ensure its reality. Ogbe meji speaks of the beginning of creation and as well the beginning of all things in the universe, the odu states in one of its stanzas that: Mo nlo lowo mi otun , Ejinrin nko mi lowo mi otun, Iwerere, Iwerere Mo nlo lowo mi osi Iwerere, Iwerere Ejinrin Iba ko mi Iwerere , Iwerere Lo mu ori Iwosin mi dele Kokoko Lo difa fun Orunmila Lojo ti nmu gbogbo Okanleniirinwo imale bo wa sode aye OLODUMARE ni ewa iwaju ni ki e fi ESU si Esu iwo ni ki o saju ooo E-s-u, ki o ma ma gbeyin ,


EJI OGBE

Tire nikan lo soro ,

Translation ,

I am going in the right hand sideDifficulties hold me tightlyCalmness, CalmnessI am going on my right hand sideThere is a blockage on my path Calmness , calmnessIs the beginning of my toughness This divine ifa for Orunmila When he is coming with four hundred and one divinities(401 deities)to the mysterious worldGod intructs all the great Divinities to come let put ESU at the fore-front Indeed , esu should be at the fore front, ESU should not be at the back ESU ODARA (esu , the magician )Because, you are the most problematic.

What this stanza is telling us is that at the beginning of any investment and at the beginning of every good intention, ESU the great magician should be appeased to create a positive atmosphere. That is every good intention must be accompanied with a ritual to ESU and other important divinities to create a situable atmosphere for blessing, progress and success. Ejiogbe speaks of the importance of ritual, sacrifice, and initiation into OBATALA, ORUNMILA, ELA, ORO, OGUN, SANGO, ESU, OSUN , OYA, ERINLE, OBALUAYE, OSSOSI, EGUNGUN, NANA BURUKU, EWA , YEMOJA, AASA, OLOKUN, OLOSA , ORISAOKO, and ORI. The energy denotes prosperity, good wife, good husband, good children, sound health, long life, well being (karoju se ile aye), victory, and winning spirit. The odu speaks of the consciousness of wisdom and the sharing of wisdom to further the light of OLODUMARE(GOD) among divinities(irunmoles), deities(orisa) and the entire human race. The odu tells us to reach out to those who are in need and passing to them the wisdom of GOD so that we can discover ourself in the service of GOD, and the consciouness of all irunmole. The odu speaks of bringing out your ability in inability situations, that we can not possess all the ability to do all things without spiritual support and without rituals, sacrifices, and other important spiritual steps to make life more meaningful and more fulfilling. We must depend on God for the fulfillment of our life desire, and also seek the support of divinties, and ifa priest for our objectives.Ifa stanzas has this to say of the above explanation:Owo ewe ko to pepe, Tagbalagba ko wo keregbeIse ti ewe babe awon agbaKi won ko mako mo Ohun ti ari lajo nran ara eni A difa folu iwo , a difa foro


EJI OGBE

Lojo ti won yoo torun bo wale ayeOlu iwo (obatala) gba igba iwa ( the calabash of moral , habit , and good characater) wa sayeNigbati ti won de ile aye bi okunaye baja nibikan Orisala ti je olu –iwo a ran ORO ko lo so pelu Igba iwaBi o ba ti naa si okun naaAsi di siso padaGbogbo nkan ti won ba si fi rubo Oro a koo lo fun obatalaNigbati o ya awon irunmole w adi ote Won si ko ORO pe ki o ma ko awon Ohun irubo pamo dipo , ti o fi nko won fun obatala Nitoripe ORO ki se eru ObatalaLehin ote yii, bi okun aye ba ti já Odo oro ni won nlo, enikeni ninu irunmole ko so fun obatala mo Inu wa bi Obatala, o sa to Orunmila Lati se asewo lowo Ifa, odu Ejiogbe ni o yo si Obatala Ifa wa so fun ki o rubo pelu orisirisi ounje, eran obuko Obi alawe (3), orogbo 3, atare3, iyereosun, owo eyo, igo oti 3, igo emu meta, ofunloju Ati ape ti won se ebo Orisa nla rubo, a ranse pe ORO lati wa ba oun je ebo, ORO feran ounje pupo, ORO je, o mu, o si yo fina fina, Ko pe pupo, oti bere si pa ORO, o si sun lo, .nigbayi ni i ESU wa so fun Obatala Oseremagbo ki o yo IGBA IWA ni iha ORO, o si gboro si ESU lenu, o si yo igba iwa lowo ORO, nigbati Oro ji, o wa igba iwa ko ri, o si bere si binu. Awon irunmole ba bi pe ti o ba fé ri igba iwa, ki o ro’kin itan igba iwa na Oro ko lê se eyi, oju re siwaleEyi ni o mu ki oro maa ke kiri pe MO MUTI MUTI MO MEMU MEMU MO JU WA NU Awon omode ORO yoo si maa dahun pe, MARO, MARO, MARO Awon omode ORO yoo si ma kepe Eeepa oro, Iwa ti oro hu si orisala yii, ni o mu ki won maa ki ORO ni ORO OLUGBIYELE ASE IWO ORO NI OLUGBIYELE! (1)

TRANSLATION: The hand of the baby failed to reach the top Likewise the hand of the old will not be able to reach the bottom of a keg with small hole at its entrance( everyone is important, and we must depend on ourselves, for betterment ,and spiritual fulfillment )Whenever the young ones seek the help of the old , the old should be ready to give helping hand We should always give a helping hand to one another


EJI OGBE

This divine ifa for OLU-IWO(ORISAALA)And divine Ifa for oro When they were coming from heaven to the mysterious worldOLU-IWO brought IGBA-IWA from heaven to the physical worldOn getting to the world and whenever there is a problem or pandemonioum in the world OLU IWO will send ORO to mend the situation,Oro did not carry out his function without sacrifices and rituals and offerrings, All the materials received would be brought before Obatala With time, all other divnities gathered together to conspire and envy OLU~IWO and instruct ORO not to deliver sacrificial materials to OBATALA.ORO being cunning heeded to the conspiracy of other divinities and since ORO was also a dynamic and powerful Divinity, he should no longer serve Obatala, So, whenever there is a problem in the world , ORO mend the problem without the knowledge of ObatalaOLU:IWO later consulted Orunmila for divination , and the odu that appeared for him was EJIOGBE, (the king of all ODUS), the odu instructed OLU-IWO to sacrifice plenty food, he goat, obi 3, orogbo 3, atare3, iyereosun(carmwood), cowries3, bottle of gin3 (pure alcoholic drink), bottles of palm wine 3, ofun loju, and sacrificial pots. ORO by nature was a glutton and a drunkard, obatala then invited him to his feast ( in reality, it is a ritual to revert a bad situation to a better situation). ORO without hesitation, accepted the invitation. On getting to the place of the feast, he (ORO) ate and drank until he was drunk and lost his consciousness. ESU later adviced Obatala to take away the IGBA IWA from him. When ORO regained his consciousness, he realised that IGBA IWA has been taken away from him, he became sad and frustrated , since then, he has been crying all over the entire universe that I DRANK AND DRANK, I EAT AND EAT, I LOST MY CHARACTER AND MORAL.Then his followers will respond; NEVER THINK AGAIN ABOUT IT NEVER THINK AGAIN ABOUT ITHis disciples will also say: OH! ORO OH! OROThis habit of ORO to OLU-IWO has made oro to be called ORO OLUGBIYELE, (THE UNTRUSTWORTHY ) ASE IWO ORO NI OLUGBIYELE ( THE UNTRUSTED FELLOW)

The above stanza speaks of cautions and reliance on GOD from creation.for all things, because human can be deceitful, arrogant, annoying and pompous. Whenever you need to go into any agreement with them, seek the face of GOD through ifa and offer sacrifice to Esu and take all necessary spiritual steps to really shed light on any dark side of the agreement or investment. The story above stresses the capabilities of ESU as an intelligent divinity that always like to rectify a deceitful situation and mend all problems without bias and prejudice. From the above stanza, ifa itemised prosperity, success and blessing, through the use of calmness, wisdom and patience. Ifa speaks of peace to be able to


EJI OGBE

overcome the negative mysterious part of men, and tell you that success is attainable during peace. Hence, peace of mind denotes spiritual wisdom, intelligence and attraction to goodness from GOD. The odu attributes patience to purity, and calmness to victory.

Ejiogbe signifies the divinity that ensures mental equilibrium, and proper use of mental capabilities to attain and achieve objectives. In the beginning, `ORI` was a divinity and one of the greatest messengers of GOD that once lived among men since creation. The traditions tell us that OLOFIN (one of the deities and a great king in ife) consulted ifa with the intention of seeking an illumination to his life and bring peace to his domain. The odu that came out was so mysterious that no single human being, including the dieties that lived during that era, could find a proper explanation and meaning for it. In the course of finding a person that will give a concrete and coherent explanation to the odu, Olofin was advised to invite Ori the mental oracle. Ori did not betray him, but gave the true translation and meaning to the energy (ogbemeji) and directed Olofin to have 10 obi, 10 orogbo, 2000 owo eyo (cowries) and a bowl. Ori also directed Olofin to use each obi (kolanut) to touch the child who was ill during the divination, and the child shall be well. Olofin did not hesistate to follow the instructions of ORI, and he did the ritual and it was accepted and the child was made perfect, whole, healthy, hearty and well. During the sacrifice, Ori only broke one of the kolanuts and kept the remaining nine. Indeed, other divinities did not understand why Ori should behave in such a manner and they conspired to fight Ori and Ori told them to come for a fight one after the other, so that he will know how to deal with them and know how to handle their case, based on their mental capacities, physical strength, spiritual disposition, and emotional balance.Obatala, the first among equal, came forward to iron it out with ORI. ORI overpowered Obatala, and landed him at ikoyi, and there he settled, and became their king. From then he was called ONIKOYI, infact with blessed and advanced mental capacities Orisaala started to rule many cities, many nations and many people followed his spiritual step and his emotional consciousness overwhelmed his followers. He later became the king of the people and his spiritual conquest reach as far as ejigbo. He became the king of many nations and cities and he was known as Ogiyan of Ejigbo, olupopo of popo, olufon of ifon, orisa adatan at the city of adatan, orisa ikire at town of ikire. Orisaala became famous and respected among people and among other divinities. THE ODU TELLS US THAT ADVANCED MENTAL CAPACITIES, POSITIVE ATTITUDE , PERSEVERANCE, CALMNESS, whenever we suffer any loss and when we are defeated by the strong waves of enemies and nature will elevate us and shoot us to higher level of consciousness, progress, wealth, fame and bring us absolute popularity.Ogun was the strongest and bravest of all divinities and he believed ORI will be intimidated by his physical strength, but ORI proved him wrong, and OGUN was conquered, and sent to ODE –IRE (the city of ire) and Ogun became their king. This is to show, that ORI knows, what they deserved, and gave them without any further consideration of alternative. Whoever wants wisdom, money, intelligence, success and progress, should ask first his mental head (ORI). And whoever has good ORI, will be attracted to his good destiny without delay. Ori turn to Sango, overpowered him, and sent him to KOSO and there he bacame their king. Till today he is called the king of Koso. Ori defeated Sapponna(Obaluaye) and sent him to ode ipopo. On getting there he became their king. He sent Orunmila baba IFA


EJI OGBE

Agbonniregun to ODE –OWO. Orunmila became their king and Orunmila ruled many cities and many nations, and he became the lord of many nations, and the oracle of wisdom respectively. He (ori), sent Ela back to ORUN (divine abode of GOD) to assist God in his divine glory. And whenever we need ELA we called him through one of the energy, and he will come down by the power of the ODU. Indeed, Ela remained more relevant to spiritual and divine activities, to miracles and wonders, and to many activities that involve the using of words, incantations and prayers. And Ela speaks of the abstainance from sex once in a while, water, food, and other personal enjoyments. Other divinities witnessed the extreme greatness of Ori when they engaged Him (ORI) in a fight and Ori helped them and blessed them with enormous prosperity, wealth and success, without mincing word. They started to sing to praise Ori. The song run thus: ORI LOMA JAJU WON LO, ORI LOMA JAJU WON, ENI TORI DA KO LAFARAWE, ORI LO MA JAJU WON.

Translation The head (ori) is beyond imagination or greater than them all and it will give victory. The head is beyond imagination and it will decree victory. Because one created with strong mental capacity is beyond jealous and he is uncomparable, Hence the head is stronger than all.

This is the mantra that comes to orisala when he was chosen as the leader of all divinities. Hence EJIOGBE SPEAKS OF LEADERSHIP AND MAP OUT THE ATTRIBUTES OF A GOOD LEADER, GOOD TEACHER AND GOOD PRIEST. Alooso difa awo egbeonaA difa fun gbogbo okanlerinwo irunmoleWon lo ree se ebo nile olofin, Won kifa , kifa, won ko jafa Won ki-ki-ki won ko fun gboooWon wa ran ni sori , Ori kifa , ori jafaWon lodi kirijiOri lodi kijan Ogun bo sita won ko ja Yiyan tori yananOde ire loyan an si Ori ni luu, tire nu un Ori ni ko maa tuba Ori ni ko maa tunse Ogbe orisaala, dida ti o daa Ile ifon lodaa si O da sango o bale si koso O da oya o da a sile iraOgbe elegbara o yan na si ile ketu


EJI OGBE

O gbe sanponna sode popo

Translation: Those who kneel down to divine are the supporter of the god of the path, This divine for all the 401 divinities When they were asked to do ritual in the house of OLOFIN They chant ifa verse but did not get to the root of the problem,They recited, they did not understand it They later summon ORIOri chanted ifa verse and understand the rudiment and the source of all the problemThe explanation brought jealous and dispute for supremacyOri confronted them with great strength Ogun was the first to battle ori Ori prevailed and sent ogun to the city of ire Ori said you will be installed and became a king of ire. Sango came, ori prevailed and sent Sango to Koso, to become their king.Orisaala came, Ori prevailed and sent Orisaala to the city of Ifon and he became olufon.While oya to the city of ira.Esu the great magician was sent to the city of Ketu, and became their king. Ori took Soppona to the city of popo and he became their leader. Ejiogbe speaks of good destiny and good fortune. It also speaks of psychic force that determine the individual fortune in life. lt signifies factors of personal responsibility influencing the total individual lot, choice, allotment and creative influence. Ejiogbe deters misfortune and encourages ancestral guardian. It is the force that connects us to our plan with all the spiritual step available, it is the architect of success, wealth and progress.Ejiogbe encourages the flow of wealth, good partner, prosperity and long life. It is the energy that assists you and see you through all difficult situations, transforms your personality, reforms your habit and illuminates your path. It speaks of moral rectitude, it builds hope, optimism and faith in the universal energy of OLODUMARE. It builds fame and popularity of an individual, dieties and divinities, based on meekness, patience, good character, moral obligation, and sound mental consciousness .This attribute is credited to OBATALA with his creative capacity.hence, there is stanza of ejiogbe that attribute this function to obatala and other famous people of the world. Gbogbo ola omi ti nbe laye Kole to ti olokun Gbogbo iyi odo kole to ti olosa Lodifa fun obatala oseere igboLojo ti yio je alabaalaseTi gbogbo irunmole nleri pe Awon yoo gba okan ninu oriki reOrunmila agboniregun yehunE su lalu elegbara ogo yerakosi ifa ti ni yi koja ejiogbe alase ni a fi ase fun gbogbo odo keekee kee ti oba so peti olokun ko si laye


EJI OGBE

gbogbo won nii gbe lau-laubi papa bajo, eruku asoloju won mo toro ola lowo olosa ibikeji odomo rije bee ni mo yo raratani ko mope ola OLORUN nikan loto ni ije dojo iku eni (8)

translation:all the honor of the earthly waternone can match the honour of OLOKUN( the goddess of ocean)all the glory of the river , none can match the goddess of seathis divine for OBATALA OSEREMAGBOthe day he was crowned the head of all divinitiesall the divinities were jealous and promisedthat they will take one of his numerous honour and glory orunmila agbonniregun did not utter any word esu lalu elegbara stayed awaynone of the odu that has honour comparable to ejiogbe honour is given to whom its dueejiogbe , you are the greatest of them allif the little river want to claim superiority over the ocean it will dry to its sourceif the bush is burning, those who need to go into hiding must do thatl ask for prosperity from the goddess of the sea, the second in command to the oceanl am full with blessing , everybody knows that the blessing of GOD is sufficient for us till end, (8)

Ejiogbe speaks of the chosen one and spiritual selection of the leader. People determine and cast vote for a leader, but we should not be deceived of one fact, that divine step guide a collective selection of one person out of numerous. Ejiogbe determines spiritual consensus and collective balance. Ejiogbe indicates happiness, understanding , consciousness, peace, harmony, comfort, light, positive energy, true vibration, joy of living, ecstatic feeling, a meaningful life of emulation, dedication to fulfilled and ambitious life, leadership, emotional growth, spiritual enlightment, mental consciousness, sound morality, strength and true knowledge of GOD. Manifestation of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual mechanism to balance our life to attract positive emotion and positive vibration .The balance comes from rituals, sacrifice, prayer, good head, initiation to all necessary deities and divinities. When chosing any person to a place of responsibility and leadership, Ejiogbe is responsible for divine appointment and divine selection of a leader. Moreso, ejiogbe is the energy for a concrete and positive step to have a better society or better organisation.This can been seen when Orunmila intended to choose his OLUAWO (9) , EJIOGBE was the odu that manifest which according to the below mantra runs as follow:


EJI OGBE

Ko si ibi ti ategun kii fe deKo si ibi ti efuufu lele ki i jaareLo difa fun iko orunmila Agbonniregun Ifa ni eni ti a ba wa de Laa koju siOluware ni e maa puro mo jeunOluwa yin kii rajoOju na naa ni oluwa yin i gbe Ti ohun gbogbo ti ba nfe ba a Eniyan yoowu tio ba já yin ni ro Ti o so pe ise ti e je ko suwon To pinnu ati fi oju kan OLODUMARE Ti o ba fi lo ko ni bo mo Ero ehin ni yoo gba ejo oluware ro Enikan kii já iro Orunmila lehin Iro ti e ba pa mo oba Iro naa ni e ma fi jeun Eni ti o ba sife jaro yin ha di ero ehin ,ero ehin ni yoo da

translation:the air blows to every córner of the universe the oxygen exists everywhere this divine ifa for the representative of Orunmila Agboniregunifa says that who ever we are looking forshould be the object of our focus and attention who ever sends us an errand should supply our means of livelihoodmy lord will not undertake any unexpected journey because he is immovable, but attracted to all things in his glorious waywhoever want to know this secret and question the mystery behind your energy and decide to go and meet OLODUMAREif eventually he goes he will not come back to tell the story the mysterious elements will plead on his behalfnobody questions the integrity of orunmila in his presence or absence whatever orunmila utter signify blessing of surplus and whoever intends to question the integrity of orunmila will fail.

T he above mantra shows that ejiogbe is responsible for choosing a leader, .the energy also identify the power of each divinity. Taking account of what ejiogbe says about OBATALA

ORISALA , YOU MUST RETURN TO YOUR WORK , THE BLACK SMITH MOULDS IRON OVER AND OVER AGAIN


EJI OGBE

UNTIL IT IS STRAIGHT AND PERFECT THE BARBER HAS NOT FINISHED HIS WORK UNTIL BACK AND SIDES ARE WELL TRIMMED YOU MUST RETURN TO YO UR UNFINlSHED WORKGENERATIONS OF KINGS HAVE REIGNED ON EARTHYET, I HAVE SEEN NONE TO RIVAL THIS DEITY TO RIVAL OBATALA KING OF ALL ORISAS ROYAL ARTIFICIER OF PERFECTION WHO CAME FROM ABOVE BUT PLACES HIS EARTHLY HOME ON THE LAND OF IRAJE HE ALONE HAS POWER TO LOCK THE RAIN GATESHE ALONE CREATED THE WHITE DOME OF THE SKY HE CREATED THE SPECIES OF RAT TO LAST FOREVER HE CREATED THE SPECIES OF THE FISH TO LAST FOREVER HE CREATED THE SPECIES OF THE BIRD TO LAST FOREVER HE CREATED THE SPECIES OF THE BEAST TO LAST FOREVER AND ORDAINED THAT THE SECIES OF MAN BE NEVER DESTROYED

The same thing happened to Sango Jinhinni jape Ekisa iya omo kiipa omo lerin –inLo difa fun OrunmilaIfa fi ogoji te Sango nifa O wa fogoji da odu fun umA f`eke, a f`odale Bi Sango ba pa awo ile lo da

Translation:

As mystic as surprise The child will not mock his mother because of her rags This divine ifa for Orunmila Ifa used forty to initiate Sango into Ifa Ifa used forty to give him his odu(energy)The usurpers and the traitors If Sango kill the son of the secret, he betrays his cult membership(11)

This tells you that EJIOGBE denotes faithfulness, honesty, support and straightforwardness. .However, Sango used the mystery of Ejiogbe to increase his energy, fame, popularity, bravery and strength. Another mantra of Ejiogbe really point to this fact Oriki olokiki kii gbasanWon pariwo re nile Won pariwo re logunLodifa fun obileja


EJI OGBE

Sango ti o ni oun ko lokiki Oni nje oun lê ni iyi Won ni yoo ni iyi Bi o ba le toju obuko meji Ati isaasun titun lati ruboSango ra obuko meji O mu okan fun awon irunmole o mu okan yooku losi odo Osanyin ore re pelu isaasun Sango se bee o fin o ran iyawo reNigbati iyawo mu eran ati isaasun de odo osanyinOsanyin se eran naa o si fi ewe sii, o de isaasun,Osi kilo fun iyawo pe ki o ma si isasun yi wo Nigbati iyawo de oju ona, o siiwo, o si mu ekiri kan jeBi kin ni o jee tan si ni efin beere si ru lenu re Iyawo tun mu ekiri kan jee si, bi o ti de ile ti o fé soro si Sango ina bere si yoo lenu re Sango ni ha!Iyawo mi, o ti si isaasun wo, bayi ni Sango naa sare ko eran yooku je, lati igba yii ni ina ti yo lenu Sango (13)

TRANSLATION:The famous praise name will not be in vain It will be popularised within the householdIt is made famous in the battle fieldThis divine for obilejaSango, who said he did not have the necessary fame He questioned himself that is it possible for him to be respectedThey said he will be respectedIf he can get two he-goatsAnd a sacrificial pot for ritualSango later brought two he goatThe divinities share one of the he-goatAnd the other he-goat be given to osanyin, his friend with the sacrificial pot Sango later instructed his wife to go and deliver the he goatWith the new sacrificial pot to osanyinOsanyin prepared the he-goat with herbs and other spiritual things Osainyin cut the meat of the he-goat into small partsThen covered the pot and warn sango`s wife not to open the pot On the way sango`s wife opened the pot and took part of the meat and ate itAfter eating, smoke and fire started to gush out from her mouthShe also opened the pot again and ate another portion of the meatOn reaching home, she opened her mouth to greet sango, fire and smoke started to come out from her mouthSango noticed that his wife had opened and ate from the magic potSango quickly ate the remaining meat. From that day Sango started to emit fire and smoke from his own mouth,


EJI OGBE

EJIOGBE denotes power, strength, absolute energy, fame, everlasting popularity, harmony, wisdom and understanding of cosmic energy.

Apart from being the odu that builds up the strength of men, it is responsible for selecting the power to be among divinities. It makes men grow to his full stature, capacities and full being with wisdom, becuase of one basic fact , `ORI` the real innerself. It states that the energy within you have enormous capacities, power, force and energy, you can cultivate the best and bring it to full flowing reality and fruitfulness ,hence a good head means good character, good moral, good reasoning, good judgement and the extension of goodness to your enviroment and to the society at large. That makes you as the shinning example of the world, and the light of the universe. As an extention of OLODUMARE , you possess all attributes of Him, the force of the divinities, and the power to overcome all adversaries, challenges and difficulties with ease. That is why ifa says, ORI LABA MI A BO KA KUKU FORISA SILE, (MEANING, WE OUGHT TO TAKE CARE OF OUR SPIRITUAL HEAD MORE THAN THE DEITIES)

Ejiogbe chooses a good head from the beginning, and also mould and change a bad destiny to a better one. This can be notice from an ifa verse: (14)It is human being we defy as orisa True indeed , it is my lord agboniregunOrisas are deified human being Orisa-nla, you know was once a human being himself When he brought blessing to the world, men began to worship him as a divinityEven to this day, men revere his memory and supplicateThe omnipotent in his name Ogun was once a human being Sango was once a human being And so those who attain wisdom on earth They are those indeed whom we worship as godsThe orisa are deified human being , (15)

The above stanza shows that we can reach any level of spiritual consciousness with an advance inner light and sound mental awareness. With good ORI, .Ejiogbe justifies and recognises the divinity of the individual, all positive steps are taken into consideration, and spiritual path are added to our mental forces. However the transcedent energy of the spirit is within all according to EJIOGBE, .it recognises human unity with all energy available to help him achieve his maximum lot.

Ejiogbe assumes that there is a blessing of longevity, but a sacrifice to secure that blessing is needed. .Ifa says that the person will live well and grow old, he will not die prematurely .Ifa says the person should offer sacrifice, one stout goat, and a lot f cowries, the priest should annoit the person with magical portion made from ifa leaves Here is the ifa verse supporting this explanation,

Its a struggle to death, boasted water


EJI OGBE

Its a fight to finish replied the highway On the dreadful day of the duo,The highway was split into fourForming the cross-road Thus declare ifa oracle to Rock everlasting That lay unperturbed in river bedRock ,before he became everlasting consulted ifa oracleAsking how he might avoid prematured deathAnd live till old age, ,ifa prescribed as sacrificial offering ,one stout goat,2000 cowries, obi, orogbo and atarerock brought the offering, the priest performed the sacrifice and annoited rock with the portion made from specified leaves of ifa thereafter rock lived till old age and became everlasting everlasting rock now praise his diviner saying:

the prognostication of the righteous diviner are ever vindicatedits a struggle to death boasted waters its a fight to finish replied the highwayon the day of duelthe highway was split into four forming cross road thus declared ifa oracle to me when i lay uncertain in river bed but i sacrificed and thereafter became everlasting opening his mouth, singing this ifa song the uncertain rock at river bed is now the everlasting rock of agewe have become everlasting rock we shall not diewe shall live forever

that day began for rock a life of joy and happiness ifa predicts long life for any person that is created with the energy of EJIOGBE

yoruba translation

ifa wipe o ri ire aiku fun eniti a da ejiogbe fun ifa so wipe ki o rubo emi gigun wipe oluwa re a dagba yoo si darugbo ko ni ku lewe .IFA so wipe ko ni egbaa owo mokanla, ki o rubo ka se koko ewe ifa fun un ibi ti ifa nan gbee – beeomi losu kitiomi lo bona loriona lo su kiti ona lo be omi lori ipade ona oun omi


EJI OGBE

won pinra won si merino wa difa fun oyigiyigi ota inu omi oyigiyigi lo da fa pe oun o lê ku lewe naki oun dagba koun si darugbo won ni ko ni agbalagba obuko, ko ni oke owo mokanlawon ni ko ni koko ewe-ifaoyigiyigi rubo won si se etutu fun won si sin ewe ifa naa fun um o dagba , o darugbo ko ku lewe,

o wa nyin awon babalawo oni bee lawon babalawo nsenu ire kifaomi losu kitiomi bona loriona losu kiti ona be omi lori ipade ona oun omiwon pin` ra won si merin

o difa fun oyigiyigi ota inu omi o wa`njo, o wa nyo o lanu koto orin ifa babo sii lenuo nse

oyigiyigi ota omi ooooyigiyigi ota omi awa do yigiyigi aoku mo oooyigiyigi ota omi

ni ojo naa ni o njo, ni o nyo ifa wipe ire aiku fun eni ti o wa difa

Ejiogbe also indicate that no one or not all things are totally good, no one is totally bad, every being is both bad and good at the same time, only the degree of goodness and otherwise varies from level of spiritual consciousness, mental alertness, discipline and commitment to some meaningful things. Those who are not conscious of this fact are just not entirely bad but remain in darkness because of ignorance and lack of faith in the source of universal energy of OLODUMARE (GOD), that has the ultimate power to redefine our destiny and illuminate our path to progress, happiness, good health and long life. Hence, to achieve this positive result according to ejiogbe is through rituals, sacrifice, patience, initiation, prayer, fasting, love, forgiving mind, positive strength of mind ( body , and soul) discipline and peace. The above line of thought is supported by ifa stanza ,


EJI OGBE

kama fi kanju- kanju jayekama fi wara mokun oroohun a bafi sagba , ka simi ka wo iwaju ojo lo titi ka tun bo wa ro ehin oro wo nitori ati sun ara eni

translation :let us not pursue worldly power in hastelet us not grasp wealth with childish habit what should be handled with maturityought not to be treated with rashness better it were to seek out a shady grove(wisdom)there to rest and reflect weighing the present with the past and learn to prepare for our last day on earth(18)

Also, note that the below divinities are created by the energy of Ejiogbe,

1 .OBATALA ,OBA TASA, OBA TAKO TAKO NI ILU IRANJE2, .ORUNMILA BARA AGBONNIREGUN, 3. OGUN ALAKAIYE OSIN IMALE 4.SANGO OLUKOSO ATUKU YARI YARI OKO OYA , OLUKOSO AJALA IJI, INA LOJU , INA LENU5. ORO 6. ESU LALU , LAROYE , OKUNRIN JONGOLO ARA IGBETI7. ORI , 8 .ELA OMO OSIN 9. OSUN INU IBU10. OYA ORI N RI 11. OBALUAYE,SONPONNA KO GBOGUN ,OMOLU, 12. NANA BURUKU13. AGBONA14. AASA15. IBEJI16. KOORI17. OOGE18. EWA19. YEMOJA20. EGUNGUN21. OLOKUN22. OLOSA23. OBA24. EGBE25. ARABA26. EYO27. IGUNNUKO


EJI OGBE

28. ELUKU29. ELUJU30. GELEDE31. ELU32. AGEMO33. YEMOWO 34. AYELALA35. OROSUN36. OJIMABA37. ABAJI

In dealing with the energy of Ejiogbe, we can use 21 obi(kolanuts), 21 orogbo, 21 atare, iyereosun, opon ifa(ifa tray), gin. You will mark Ejiogbe on the ifa tray .and pour the gin on the ground, then say this mantra:

Ifa ko jebo na o fin Ifa ko jeebo na o rorun gburegbureOnile gajiOnile gajiOrun tataata tuuru-taAfin onilareAwo ile orunmila Dia fun orunmilaO nti ikole orun bo wa si ikole ayeOni oun lo re lowoOun lo re kole Oun lo re lobinrinOun lo ree bimoOun lo ree joye oba atun aye seWon ni ko woju ona Awon ti kiije ki eni o se nkan nile ayeIfa ni to ba se bii toun ni O loun o lowo lowo Oni oun o kole mole Oni oun o laya mayaOni oun o bimo lemoOni oun o joye obataye seWon ni o daa, lojo wo ni o de O lojo ota inu omi baa peweO lodi ojo apadi igbale baa seje O di ojo ti won ba di agbara ka wewe Ifa ni o di ojo atian tian rere Won ni Ojo wo ni ota inu omi a to pewe Ojo wo ni apadi igbale a to sejeOjo wo ni won ato digbara ka tete


EJI OGBE

Ojo wo ni won ato digba raka weweOjo wo ni ojo a tian tian rereIfa wa ni Ti o ba je pe bee ni O loun o pada sode orun mo loun wiNje sawerepepeSawerepepeIfa mama je nku dare oja yi nuIfa ma jee ki emi ati gbogbo ebi ju dare oja yi nu Jee won gbo , je won to –ifaKi won dagba dagbaKi won darugboAse-----19

Translation:

Make the sacrifice auspicious, ifa Make the ritual go up to the highest abode of OlodumareSolid as the roofSafe as the roofThe future is certain and secure as the roofThus declare ifa oracle to Orunmila through his diviner nicknamed albinoAt that time when Orunmila set out from heaven earth-ward boundI go to the earth said Orunmila To acquire wealth and owns housesTo have many properties, wealth , blessing and surplusTo crown all this by bringingA new order into the world How do you think you can succeedAsked those in heavenThe world abound with evil powersWho ensure that nothing good triumph on earthAnd look how those powers stand blocking your path With malice afore-thoughtIfa repliedAs for me, l see no obstacle For i know the way to succeedIn money, marriage, property, progenyI have the will to bring a new order into the worldVery well then, and your return to heaven when shall that beIfa replied in these cryptic wordsI will return when the stone at river bed blossomWhen potsherds linning the street ooze out of bloodWhen what has to be done ,has been doneWhen what has to succeed has succeededWhen time approaches but never arrives


EJI OGBE

Then Orunmila was askedWhen will the stones in the river-bed blossomWhen will potsherds in the street ooze out of bloodWhen will what has to be done be doneWhen will what has to succeed succeedOn what day will time approach but never arriveIfa repliedIf you are so ignorant of parablesThis in plain language is what it meansI will not any more return to heaven

I implore you ifa By the power of sawerepepeBy sawerepepe leaves sacred to you , ifaI implore you Let me not die before my timeLet not the members of my family and loved ones dieBefore their time, ifa grant them a long life Lead us to a ripe old age ifa(ASE)

After this, you will pray with all the materials and put all In ifa pot with obi-3,orogbo-3,atare-3 and a gin on esu stone. The obi-3 , orogbo-3 and atare-3 are part of the obi you will use to offer sacrifice to ifa. In most or in all sacrifices, one must try to offer esu first - the messenger of hope, later to ifa

From the above ifa stanza, you will notice that success, happiness, long life, joy, strenght, power, abundancy, surplus, progress, peace of mind,, knowledge, fame, wealth, freedom spiritual consciousness, mental alertness, emotional balance, wisdom , accomplishment expansion of knowledge and properties depend solely on ability to focus more on spiritual energy to bring about and attract opportunities. The way to success in all things depend on your understanding of the spiritual and natural phenomenon. .Ifa says nothing should disturb us from our worldly accomplishment and joy, using the power of Ejiogbe.Ejiogbe place us above every obstacles if we really intend to blend the indwelling force with natural energies, because the meaning of Ejiogbe is to be above every challenges, to be lifted up, to overcome and to see the light of OLODUMARE, hence Ogbemeji or Ejiogbe signifies multiple victory.


EJI OGBE


Odu Ejiogbe

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Transcript of Odu Ejiogbe