Idaasa: The Language of Cowrie Shells

(Ose-Otura)
Cowrie-Shell Divination refers to several distinct forms of prophecy using Cowrie Shells that are integral to the rituals and spiritual beliefs of certain religions. Although best-documented in West Africa and Afro-American religions such as Santeria, Candomblé, and Umbanda, Cowrie-Shell Divination has also been recorded in other regions, notably East Africa and India.

In representing Orisha (16 Cowries) with the choice between two alternatives, a small vertebra (bone) is often used to symbolize bad, and a pair of Cowries tied back-to-back to symbolize good. Any two objects can be used, but the bone is associated with death while cowries were formerly used as currency. This is why the alternatives are spoken of as Ibo, meaning “covered” or “concealed.” There are five kinds of good fortune (Ire – well-being) and five kinds of bad fortune (Ibi – misfortune) that are to be encountered in the world.

Good Fortune:

Longevity
Wealth
Marriage
Children
Victory
Bad Fortune:

Death
Illness
Conflict
Poverty
Loss
The art of divination can only be fulfilled if all relevant questions are addressed to seek appropriate answers. No single divination system can provide a complete and comprehensive answer, as each system has its own unique specialty. For instance, the Obi (Kolanut), a compulsory companion of most sacrifices and rituals, serves its purpose by being constantly consulted during and after the preparation of the sacrifice to ensure the procedure is proper and to determine where the sacrifice should be offered for the Deity-Orisa to accept it.

The position of the Erindilogun is significant but not all-encompassing. Its main attribute lies in its ability to respond accurately to larger questions and to illuminate paths where darkness clouds the way. No divination is complete without following the process or meeting the obligation that the Odu of Ifa imposes, which is the sacrifice stipulated for most divinations.

Sacrifices (Ebo) are standard for most divinations. In some cases, a sacrifice may be neither necessary nor adequate. The diviner has the final judgment in such situations.
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