Today, we celebrate the feast day of Orula (Orunmila, Orunla), the Orisha of wisdom, knowledge, and divination. Orula is the master diviner, gifted with prophecy. He is the supreme oracle and master spiritualist who sees all and knows all.
According to the patakís (sacred stories), Orula was the only orisha who witnessed the creation of the universe. As such, Orula knows the entirety of existence and future of every human on Earth. He knows how we can find health, happiness, peace of mind, and success, and helps us avoid mistakes by keeping us on the right path.
Orunmila also knows when each of us will die. Known as the Protector of Life, he made a pact with Iku (death) to make sure his children die at the right time, in line with the destiny we chose for ourselves in heaven. It is said that wearing an Orula Beaded Bracelet on the left wrist identifies Orula's children to Iku, and help keep the wearer from being carried off by before their time, regardless of their initiation.
In the Ifa tradition, which he is credited with creating, Orunmila is considered a sage, recognizing that Olodumare placed Ori (intuitive knowledge) in him as a prime Orisha. His praise name is "Igbákejì Olódùmarè" (second in command to Olodumare) and "Ẹlẹ́rìí ìpín" (witness of fate).
Furthermore, his name, "Orunmila," could be interpreted as “Orun” (the spiritual realm ) + “mila” (knows who will be saved or healed). As such, Orunmila is the multidimensional spirit of destiny.
As the deity of knowledge, wisdom, and divination, Orunmila's goal is to combine the wisdom of the past with the present to aid humanity in achieving balance and harmony in life.
Also credited with the creation of the Babalawo concept, Orula, is a powerful orisha whose wisdom is beyond compare. He knows the best roads for humans to achieve prosperity, happiness and success, and can guide us on the right path if we listen to his foresight.
Respect his talent, and he will help guide you toward your life’s destiny.
Orula is one of the Seven African Powers (Siete Potencias Africanas), synchronized with Saint Francis of Assi.
Feast Day: October 4
Day of the week: Sunday or Thursday
Colors: Green and yellow
Number: 13
Primary symbols: the divination board, palm tree, iguana, the chameleon, and the parrot
Orunla is also associated with the Azabache: A stone that is believed to provide protection and ward off negative influences