By Kabiyesi Oba, Dr. Adekunle Aderounmu
In the wisdom of Ifá, true personal evolution is not found in blaming others for our misfortunes but in the courage to correct our own behaviors, thoughts, and actions. Orunmila, the Orisha of wisdom and divination, teaches us that every human being is responsible for the path they walk, and that introspection is the key to aligning with Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́—good character.
The Mirror of Ifá
Ifá is not merely a system of divination; it is a sacred mirror that reveals the truth about ourselves. When we consult Ifá, we are not looking to point fingers at enemies or external causes. We are seeking insight into the cause and effect of our own choices. Ifá reveals not only the spiritual forces at play, but how our own character, pride, fear, or negligence may have opened the door to certain consequences.
The Odù Ifá often remind us that self-correction is more powerful than self-defense. Odù Ògúndá Méjì says:
“Bí a bá rìn títí, a máa pàdé ara wa.”
“If we walk far enough, we eventually meet ourselves.”
This means that no matter how far we try to run from responsibility, we will always have to confront the truth within us.
Growth Through Ìtẹ́wọgbà (Acceptance)
One of the core virtues in Ifá is ìtẹ́wọgbà—the ability to accept correction with humility. A person who is willing to learn from their mistakes and make changes in their behavior is seen as spiritually mature. In contrast, someone who constantly blames others is like the person who closes their ears to the drum—they cannot dance in rhythm with life.
In the Odù Òsé Ìwòrì, we learn:
“Ẹni tí kò gbọ́, kò lè mọ́ òtítọ́.”
“He who does not listen cannot know the truth.”
Ifá teaches that the truth often hurts before it heals. But the pain of correction is the pain of transformation. When you begin to say, “How have I contributed to this situation?” instead of “Who is to blame?”, you begin to evolve. That is real spiritual growth.
Accountability as a Path to Destiny
In Ifá, we are each born with ayanmo—a destiny. But destiny is not a guarantee; it is a potential that must be fulfilled through choice and character. You cannot blame others for the delay in your destiny if your own actions are the stumbling blocks.
Orunmila warns in several Odù that blaming others is a form of spiritual immaturity. True children of Ifá seek solutions, not excuses. They look inward before looking outward.
The Role of Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́
At the heart of all spiritual growth in Ifá is Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́—gentle, balanced, and honorable character. You cannot possess Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́ if you always shift responsibility. Real growth begins when you say:
• “I was wrong.”
• “I need to improve.”
• “I will change.”
These are the statements of a Babaláwo or Ìyánífá in training—not in title, but in character.
Conclusion
In the philosophy of Ifá, growth is not measured by titles, rituals, or outward appearances. It is measured by the courage to correct oneself. Blaming others is easy; transformation is difficult. But only the latter leads to wisdom and destiny fulfillment.
As Orunmila reminds us:
“If we destroy something with our hands, we can also rebuild it with our hands.”
The power to change your life lies within you—not in the hands of others. And that is where real growth begins.
By Kabiyesi Oba, Dr. Adekunle Aderounmu
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