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Product Details
Ikin Ifa are sacred palm nuts used as the primary divination tool in the Yoruba religion and the Ifa system. They are considered the physical representation of Orunmila (the Orisha of wisdom and destiny) and are used by a Babalawo (Ifa priest) to communicate with the divine.
Key Characteristics and Usage
The Seeds: These are specifically the nuts of a sacred palm tree. Unlike common palm nuts (Ekuro), authentic Ikin Ifa are carefully selected based on their "eyes"—small indentations on the base.
The "Eyes" (Oloju): The number of eyes on a seed determines its classification and ritual value.
4-eyed (Oloju Merin): Known as Awinrin, these are the most common and standard seeds used for divination.
3-eyed (Oloju Meta): Often called Osa Ikin; some traditions view them as unsuitable for standard consultation, while others consider them "male" and powerful.
6-eyed (Oduso): Rare and highly valued for their perceived spiritual power.
Divination Process: During a consultation, a Babalawo manipulates 16 sacred nuts in his hands. By attempting to grab them all at once, the remaining nuts in his palm (either one or two) determine the marks made on a divination tray (Opon Ifa) to reveal the Odu(sacred verses).
Hand of Ifa: A set usually consists of 21 seeds (the "Hand of Orunmila"), which includes the 16 used for divination plus 5 spares.
Symbolism
Ikin Ifa represent unlimited growth potential and the deep mysteries of destiny. When first received during initiation, they are often rough and fibrous, but through years of ritual care and "appeasement" with oils and offerings, they become smooth, dark, and shiny, symbolizing the practitioner's evolving relationship with the divine.