Basic principles of Obi Divination: definitions.

For proper use in divination, the Obi Abata must be of four segments, consisting of Two
Males (Ako Meji), and Two Females (Abo Meji). These segments represent an equal balance
in the forces of “light” - the masculine force and “darkness” corresponding to the feminine
force. To get an accurate oracle in consultation, the four segments should be cast on a clean
ground, flat bowl, plate, or tray. Water should be sprinkled on the ground as a means of
offering libation to the various Orisa before casting the Obi Abata.

One thousand and one questions can be asked in a day, but the same question must NEVER
be asked twice, or else the questioner will be deceived. The subject of inquiry must be
always stated before the Obi Abata kola nuts are cast.

The Obi Abata Oracle can be performed by either a Man or a Woman, initiate of non-initiate.
Yoruba traditional customs indicate that the Obi Abata is favoured among Women as a
means of consulting, and assisting in the Ifa system of divination.

The Language of the Obi: When the Obi is to be used for divination either as a medium in
her own right, or for asking procedural directives during the process of or after the
completion of a sacrifice, or for asking questions in the presence of another Orisa, it is
important that the Obi to be used must be very clean and a complete whole seed. The Obi
that is meant for use should be selected from a pack and should be properly washed and
placed in a clean container or piece of clean white cloth.

Casting The Obi Abata: The Obi for divination or asking questions should first be put into
water, and the person to cast her must take a sip of the water in which the Obi is in three
times before he/she picks out the Obi from inside the water. Before taking out the Obi from
inside the water, the water should be sprinkled upon the Orisa or ebo three times or if it is
meant for divination purpose the water should be sprinkled on the ground where the
divination will be casted three times. The Obi should thereafter be carefully broken up into
its constituent Lobes, allowing for no scratch or bodily damage.
A knife or any metallic instrument should never be used to break the Obi open, so as not to
interfere with her degree of accuracy, which could be altered say for example when she
comes in contact with Ogun’s iron.

Reading the Obi: In Obi Abata Divination, about nine positions of the Obi’s lobes formation
after a throw are each a coded Signature loaded with meaning such as will answer or give
explanations to questions asked in response to various and specific enquiries. When the Obi
is cast for asking questions in the presence of a Female Orisha, Osun, Yemoja, Olokun etc,
the reading of the Male/ Female meaning is reversed. Then the Female lobes are read as
mostly positive, while the Male Lobes are read as may-be or less positive.

The nine figures are:

1. Alaafia - all 4 lobes "open",

2. Oyeku - all 4 lobes closed,

3. Okanran (Ilera) - 1 male open and 3 closed

4. Okanran (Aje) - 1 feminine open, closed.

5. Ejire – 1 male, 1 female open; 2 closed

6. Ejire (Abo n bare) – 2 female open, 2 closed (Ero)

7. Ejire (Ako n bare) – 2 male open; 2 closed (Akoran)

8. Etawa (Akita) – 2 male, 1 female open

9. Etawa (Obita) – 2 female, I male open

These 9 basic figures express the disposition of active expansive energies and passive
contraction energy on the surface of the Universe.

The system is so clearly binary: it describes the alternating forces of contraction and
expansion recognizing each of them may present two dispositions: balance or conflict.
 1. ALAAFIA = Ogbe: All four Lobes facing Up

The indicators are that good health and happiness will continue in abundance. Orisa says
that traveling is in the air with possible rewarding and gainful outcome. For those who are
connected with overseas trading, expected shipments are just arriving at the port. Orisa
Ibeji (Twins) is about to look upon the enquirer.

Pure light, happiness, condence, long-life and prosperity…

2. OYEKU: All Four Lobes Facing Downwards

Orisa says that this cast could either mean that you are about to come into an abundance of
Good Luck or that a ght or quarrel is imminent. It is always presumed that the abundance of
Good Luck is what the Orisa is talking about. Because of the double language of the Odu, a
recast is always necessary for clarication. So make a second casting. The casting of the four
Lobes facing down is also making reference to the possible birth of twins of the taking of
special care for the twin children. It also talks about a pregnant woman who needs Orisa’s
attention. She should give ebo to Obatala.

Darkness, death and many obstacles. From it you derive unhappiness, sickness, and great
fear. It may also sometimes offer protection, avert sudden death, and dangers

3. OKANRAN - Ilera: One Male Lobe Facing Up

Orisa speaks of a reinforcement of the positive inuences that are abound now. Orisa says
one should make Sacrice so that the favorable trend can continue. Orisa says that no charm
nor medicine have been aected by negative vibrations. Orisa says that you should not put a
curse or make negative wish for anyone so that it might not come to pass.

Good health, singleness of purpose, and good prospects. Those Lobes which are down
may also add more emphasis depending on their positions.

4. OKANRAN: Aje: One Female Lobe Facing Up

Orisa says that this is a may be negative indicator calling you to give the Orisa what you are
owing them, and that is why negative forces are present or surrounding the inquiries. Watch
out for sickness or trouble that might be ahead. A second casting is necessary to clarify if
the first throw signifies sickness, accidents or bad luck.
 Good fortune, financial prosperity and comfort. It is said that this formation brings good
news.

5. EJIRE: One Male & One Female Lobe Facing Up

Orisa says that this is a may be “Yes” indicator, a marriage of convenience. Ejiko is also
called the “Twins” and regarded as an indicator of continuity. Whenever this figure appears,
it is greeted with thus “Good Luck, & Continuity” Appease the ground with cold water before
proceeding…

A good omen for all undertakings, also speak of friendship when one Male and one
Female Lobe lay open together.

6. EJIRE (Abo n bare) Ero: Two Female Lobes Facing Up

Orisa says that this is a negative indicator, Iya-Mogun (Witches) are showing displeasure
with you. They disapprove of habit/food or interest in the question asked. A Sacrifice should
be made for the Orisa on behalf of a sick person. Orisa says “No” to this question is final.
Make Sacrifice to appease Iya-Mogun.

Everlasting and Peaceful rest…

7. EJIRE (Ako n bare [Akoran]: Two Male Lobes Facing Up

Orisa speaks of a reinforcement of the positive influences that are abound now. Orisa says
one should make Sacrifice so that the favorable trend can continue. Orisa says that no
charm nor medication has been affected by negative vibrations. Orisa says that one should
not put a curse or make negative wishes for anyone so that it might not come to pass.

A quarrel or trouble, possibly relating to a court case. It is often described as a difficult

problem.

8. ETAWA (Akita/Isegun): Two Male & One Female lobes Facing Up

Orisa says that this is a very positive indicator. if your inquiry is about love relation or
marriage proposal. This position of the Obi is a sign of victory. the enquirer should neither
fight nor put a curse upon anyone. He has overcome all his enemies.

Good health, controversy among enemies, joy. May predict the birth of a Male child.
 9. ETAWA (Obita): Two Female & One Male Lobes Facing Up

Uncertainties and a very slow trend is abound. Sacrice and propitiation for Ogun is the key
to getting back on a smoother path. Avoid getting into a ght or unnecessary annoyance.
Treat loved ones with care and be patient with work mates.

Brings peace, happiness, comfort, sometimes this can predict victory over enemies or
court case.

When examining the various patterns of formation in the Obi Abata (Kola-Nut), the reader
must keep in mind that the direction of the Lobes plays an essential role in understanding
hidden messages which are relevant to the ways in which the Masculine and Feminine forces
are moving within the Signature cast.