As the years roll by…and they have definitely done so…I become more and more convinced that, other than dealing with those emergency issues of our life ( illness, legal problems, new job, new birth etc ) that we are best served by paying the most attention to the broader, longer range, divinations that impact our lives. First, and foremost, is your Life Path Reading, which is the template for understanding ALL future readings with the exception of Orisa or Ifa initiation. Second, would be the monthly indications of your Icofa.

Click on the PLAY Button for Icofa for the Month of December 2007

How to do the Offering to the Icofa...

The offering should be made by bringing out the Icofa and removing 16 Ikin.
1. While cupping the Ikin in your hand, blow 3 times into the Ikin. Each time you blow into the ikin, say aloud your Odu (the Odu that was cast when you received your Icofa). As you do this you are sharing the Ase' (energy) of your breath with Orunmila.
2. You then bring up your cupped hands with the Ikin up to your forehead and pray to Orunmila for the blessings you wish to receive. In your prayers you should always ask for guidance (wisdom) to build "good character", enjoy good health, and have "balance in your lives" (staying on path).
3. Then rub the 16 Ikin with the offering indicated while asking Orunmila for blessings for the coming month.
4. After you have completed your prayers and requests, the 16 Ikin should be placed back in its container and any remaining Ikin should be treated in the same fashion.
5. When all this is concluded, put all the Ikin back in their container and light two small white candles and say an additional prayer to thank Orunmila for all your blessings.

What is the purpose of receiving your Icofa?...

People always want to know: "what is the purpose of receiving your Icofa? ". The answer is: This single hand of Orunmila, which is EXACTLY the same for either men or women, is a direct conduit to the energy of the Orisa of Divination. The energy of Orunmila might be equated to the General Practioners in medicine. It is Orunmila's knowledge of all that was and all that will be, that imparts a tremendous insight and power to those connected to it. Other Orisa are more specific in their areas of energy. More like the specialists in medicine. Because Ifa is so intimately connected with balance in our lives, the energy and wisdom of Orunmila is essential to achieve this... for only this overview can place the various parts in their correct order.

I don't have a complete Icofa (minimum is 16 Ikin)?...

If your Icofa does not contain at least 16 Ikin it is not a complete hand and should be corrected. See Icofa Initiations below for correction..

Where can I learn more about the Odus?...

Learn about the Odus from the "The Sacred Ifa Oracle" - (HarperCollins Publishing). Available from the African Spiritual Store.

How can I get my own Icofa?...