What is babalawo?

A babalawo, also known as an Ifá priest or diviner, is a traditional healer and spiritual leader in the Yoruba religion of Nigeria and the West African diaspora. The word "babalawo" roughly translates to "father of mysteries" in the Yoruba language.

Babalawos are highly respected within the Yoruba community for their knowledge of Ifá, the complex system of divination and spiritual teachings that guides the beliefs and practices of the religion. They are trained in interpreting Ifá verses, performing rituals, and providing spiritual guidance to individuals and communities.

Babalawos are consulted for a wide range of issues, including health problems, relationship issues, business decisions, and spiritual matters. They use divination tools such as the opon Ifá (divination tray) and the ikin Ifá (sacred palm nuts) to communicate with the orishas (deities) and ancestors and provide guidance and solutions to problems.

In addition to their role as diviners and healers, babalawos often serve as mediators, counselors, and educators within the community. They are considered to have a deep connection to the spiritual world and are believed to possess the wisdom and power to help individuals navigate life's challenges and obstacles.