Olokun & the African Diaspora

We cannot speak of the African diaspora and fail to acknowledge the ocean. Earlier this year, when we cast Ifa for the SF Bay Area, Olokun featured prominently. In one verse, Ifa reminded us of the time when Olokun's fortune was waning. In desperation, Olokun went to consult Ifa. The first awo said the situation was hopeless. Olokun went for a second opinion. The prognosis was just as dismal. Olokun sought a third opinion! This time, the awo recommended sacrifice for growth and to avoid naysayers. Olokun complied. As a result, all rivers flowed to the ocean to offer support. And, as you are well aware, it has been that way ever since.

Not only is the ocean expansive, it is mysterious. Cuban awos are fond of saying nobody knows the bottom of the sea. One of the most profound mysteries of the ocean is tied to trans Atlantic slavery. It is a watery mausoleum that houses countless souls. At the same time, the ocean carried millions of Africans to the shores of America. It is no wonder that we gather at the beaches of Brazil, Haiti, Galveston, New York, San Francisco and others to venerate deities like Agoue, Yemoja and Olokun. Intuitively, we know that the answers we seek can only be answered by Olokun, whose mysteries are beyond comprehension. Here, Ifa says:

Okanrantutu, cool Okanran
The fire shows its braveness
But cannot reach the bottom of the ocean
The power of the sun cannot touch the bottom of a lagoon
Cast divination for Serubawon, scare them
The child of Olokun jemiade
Who was told to offer everything in 200s
Serubawon was told no one would ever see his end, ever
- Holy Odu OkanranOturupon

May the sun never set on the Yoruba cultural empire! As the ocean expands over the earth and defies human comprehension, may Orisa Lifestyle continue to spread and sustain the mystery of African identity. Aboru aboye abosise.

Obafemi Origunwa, MA | www.ObafemiO.com