Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa: A West African Spiritual Tradition

by Tobe Melora Correal

In the realm of African spiritual pathways, no tradition is so widely embraced and practiced as the West African religion Orisa. Awakened by her own spiritual journey, Tobe Melora Correal, an initiated priestess in the Yoruba-Lukumi branch of Orisa, guides us along this blessed road. FINDING THE SOUL ON THE PATH OF ORISA provides a fresh look at these ancient teachings and emphasizes introspection and inner work over the outward manifestations of Orisa's practices. Correal debunks misconceptions surrounding the tradition, drawing us into a lushly textured, Earth-centered spiritual system-a compassionate and useful roadmap for revering God.

Genres: Spirituality, Religion, Africa, Nonfiction, Psychology, Reference, Audiobook

202 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 28, 2003

Reviews

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It gave me a new outlook on the Yoruba religion. I read a book on Santería and it made it seem like such an evil and vengeful practice I just could not see myself getting involved. I was even turned off by the book. But THIS book changed things for me. The author was critical of the religion and did not blindly follow everything they practice especially when it came to charging initiates an immense amount of money to help improve your relationship with the ancestors. The author was also critical of how those involved used the practice as a way to get the things they want or to hurt people and I was exposed to that side of the practice and I didn't like it at all. So I'm glad I read this book. It answered a lot of questions I had and settled my feelings on the religion. The bibliography is extensive and great place to look for more literature about Yoruba religion etc. I highly recommend!

[Fee Bolden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was ABSOLUTELY amazing and I will leave an in depth review very soon. Highly recommended to beginners and those interested in Yoruba/Ifa.

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just recently got this book back from my mom. I loaned it a year or so ago to her.

It's tough finding a book that is good for someone who is curious about ATR practices, but needs a bit more than just the usual history lesson of where it came from and all of that.

The author does a great job of simplifying things without making it TOO basic...

If you're already involved in the religion, there isn't much you're going to get out of this book, aside from the usual warm-and-fuzzies if experiences mentioned are similar to your own. For new folks, though, I think it's pretty good.

[Shanali · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tobe really captures some of my own practices and views experienced while practicing my religion. She also explains a few of the essential Patakis/Stories that make the base of our spiritual beliefs. A must read for Orisa initiates.

[Stephanie Sorensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a beginning student, I found this book quite informative and well written. I learned a great deal and will probably re-read soon :)

[Bridget Sundin Nowicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to Bahni Turpin read the audiobook and hearing the correct Yoruba pronunciation was a very positive experience. I appreciated the direct way Correal wrote the book, but many times I found myself wanting a more in depth explanation than was available. I especially found Part Two, the section about ancestral altars and reconciling generational trauma with ancestral guides, moving. I’m definitely going to continue reading about this religion, as I’ve been drawn to it for many years now. Being a white woman gives me pause to do anything more than appreciate these beautiful traditions and lore, but for anyone looking to learn more about initiation, elders, and houses - it’s all in there.

[Dianne Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific information - great first step for the curious and serious

I really enjoyed this book - after finding out my ancestors were most likely from the Ivory Coast / Ghana (DNA testing) I began researching the paths of religion from that area. I was drawn to this book by recommendations from knowledgeable friends, and was not disappointed. I’ve learned a lot and feel more ready to continue my personal journey. Well worth the read - but more than that - take action after reading it!

[Antoine Bandele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very easy prose to read, especially for someone not familiar with Yoruba and Ifa teachings outside the main Orisha. This book can get repetitive but it has a solid foundation for base knowledge. I read this more for research; but this book would especially benefit those who are looking to get in touch with their personal spirituality.

[H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful companion to any walk of life. This book is an overall wonder, but she really hits her stride when talking about religion and spirituality. She hits all the right notes about keeping our guard up against those who take advantage of belief.

A must read for anybody who wants to mentally better themselves.

[Talena Winters · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an interested outsider, and found the book to be an excellent introduction to the philosophies of this faith. I have a new-found respect for its practitioners. I got the impression that it would also be good for those who practice and need to find a more positive expression of their faith. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator was perfect.

[Elliot Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Educational

If your beginning Orisa are practicing it ritually with no passion. This is a good place to start I learned a lot and with no fear Orisa easy book to read and yet honest.

[Shawndrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book

This book has peon my eyes to a different path of gods and goddesses that I can relate too. I can’t wait to read more about these wonderful people and travel back in time .

[MysticStrawberri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exceptional introductory to the topic of West African Spirituality. It wasn't overall obscure while protecting the sanctity of the closed religion. I would recommend to anyone interested on this topic.

[Pam · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this because I am interested in the beliefs and traditions of the people of South Africa. This is an interesting religion. It includes lots of ancestor worship, home alters, and training with elders.

[Shay · Rating 3 out of 5]

it wasn't for me right now. hiwever it seems to be well written. I just didn't connect. I haven't finished it

[Javano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read. Need a follow up book though.

[Amanda Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful

In my personal opinion, any person looking for spiritual growth, should start with this book. It tells you what others wont. The good, bad, and ugly.

[Aisha Amen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about our African traditional spiritual path and the author's personal experiences.

[Andree Morgana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read some time ago, forget details of content - It's a good book for those of the western mind to better understand the Orixá Tradition

[Adrian Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book. Written in clear, penetrating language. Exactly what I needed to read right now to find some grounding as I explore who I am both spiritually and genetically.

[Dominick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative

[Jess Roses · Rating 5 out of 5]

great for research on the Yoruba spiritual tradition.

[Dana Kayode · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great

This is a good book for beginners and the curious. It gives good information. Worth reading if you are interested in learning a bit about ATR

[CEGatling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting introduction to the Yoruba Orisa tradition. I like Bahni Turpin as a narrator and she was perfect.

Book: 4
Narrator: 5
Total: 4.5

[Dimentria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a awesome book

This book has truly opened my eyes to my destiny and purpose. Thank you I recommend reading this for those on the path and that need guidance.

[gabriella]

feels weird to rate but i will be learning more and i highly recommend everyone read about the orishas!! my christian trauma needed this i never thought religion in this way was possible lol

[Dominick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for any devotee of an Orisha tradition and a good starter book for anyone who wants to learn about these traditions. The book is a good, in depth look at the theology and ethics of the Orisha traditions.

[Alejandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

learning!!

[TW · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very refreshing take on the factors that go into making a decision to pursue a spiritual path, Orisa or otherwise. I am grateful to the author and her spirit guides!

[Nana Prah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this to be a highly educational book. Helping to clarify some things about the spiritual journey the followers of Orisa undertake.