1. Introduction: The Principle of Cosmic Wisdom

Orunmila, also known as Ifá, is the Irunmole (primordial deity) of wisdom, knowledge, and divination. He is not an embodied Orisha, but an intellectual energy that manifests through the sacred oracle of Ifá. Orunmila was present at the moment of creation and, therefore, knows the destiny of all beings and everything that exists. He is the witness of destiny (Èlerí Ìpín), the counselor who reveals the path to balance and harmony.

2. Fundamental Myths (Itan)

An Itan tells how Olodumare gave Orunmila the wisdom to interpret the mysteries of existence. He is the only one who understands the complex web of destiny and how human beings can navigate it. Another important myth narrates his descent to Earth to bring order and knowledge to humanity. Through the Odu (the 256 signs of Ifá), he teaches the history of the universe, the nature of the Orishas, and the solutions to all human problems.

3. Domains and Symbols

Their domain is knowledge and the oracular system of Ifá. Their sacred symbols are the Opon Ifá (the divination board, representing the world), the Ikin (the 16 sacred oil palm seeds, manipulated to generate the Odu), and the Opelé Ifá (a chain with eight seed halves, used for quicker divination). Their colors are green and brown, representing the leaves of wisdom and the earth.

4. Archetype and Personality

The priests of Orunmila are the Babalawos ("Father of the Secret"). His children (people whose principal Orisha is Orunmila) are extremely wise, calm, thoughtful, and possess great intellectual capacity. They are excellent counselors, peacemakers, and strategists. They are discreet, humble, and dedicate their lives to study and the pursuit of knowledge to help the community.

5. Relationships and Dialogues

Orunmila has a close relationship with all the deities, as he is the interpreter of their will. His most crucial partnership is with Exu, who is his inseparable messenger. Without Exu, the sacrifices prescribed by Orunmila would not reach their destination. He also has a deep relationship with Oshun, who was his first apprentice (Apetebi) and the only woman to master certain secrets of Ifá.