The Handbook of Yoruba Religious Concepts

by Baba Ifa Karade

In this introductory volume, Baba Ifa Karade provides an easily understandable overview of the Yoruba religion. He describes 16 orisha and shows us how to work with divination, to use the chakras to internalize the teachings of Yoruba, and describes howto create a sacred place of worship. Includes prayers, dances, songs, offerings, and sacrifices to honor the orisha and egun. Illustrations, charts, glossary, bibliography, and index.

Genres: Religion, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Africa, Anthropology, Research, Mysticism

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 1994

Reviews

[Petra X · Rating 5 out of 5]

And now for something completely different.... I am always interested in different philosophies and reading of rituals can be fascinating. In case it doesn't deliver, I have a few customers who like African books, or ones on any form of magic. Obeah is alive and well here, running alongside Christianity in a more covert way. I could phone one customer tomorrow and he'd come running to buy it.

He's an uneducated, clever, but very slightly-odd man from one of the down islands. He can't keep a job despite working in the boat industry where there is no shortage of employment. He comes and sits down for a couple of hours to chat, so I usually leave him with a clerk. He's always looking for books to get his wife back, keep his girlfriend, get money, in a magic, spells kind of way, not so much Wiccan or Voudou as Obeah which is a magic system and not a religion. He wants anything anything Santo Domingan (their anointing oils and money-getting candles are sold everywhere). Dolls are banned on the island. Not Barbies, but the ones from Haiti and Jamaica, the voodoo dolls. They are very expensive and hard to get and apparently full of power. He wants one of those.

I had a bearded lady customer who dressed all in white, a tall imposing woman with short grey dreadlocks. She recommended this and quite a few other books on Shango (Trinidad), Juju (the Bahamas) and the one she said was closest to Ifa and the Yoruba religion, Santeria (Cuba). She said I would have so many customers if I stocked those kind of books and that she herself was a Mambo, a Voudou high priestess. I did think about it... I have never seen her since though and no one else asks for these books.

Most expats never see this part of island life. I've only glimpsed it, but sometimes in long stares.

[Chris brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an amazing and intriguing read. This book dispels all the negative imagery of traditional African spirituality of west Africa the runs rampant in American and European thought and consciousness with in the first 25 pages. It is a great resource of honest learning and a fabulous introduction to the core of Ifa tradition.

I would recommend this book to anyone that has not had any other formal or indept knowledge of of Ifa, Santaria, or any other tradition that has its origins from Ifa. I was surprised by how similar Ifa and Hinduism are, Hinduism: All life & creation, what would be considered gods, angels, demons, spirits, man, plants and trees all just aspects and emanations/personifications of Brahman essentially all things are one and one is all and everything carries the spirit energy of the divine (Prana) with in it. Ifa: All life & creation, what would be considered gods, angels, demons, spirits, man, plants and trees all just aspects and emanations/personifications Olodumare essential all things are one and one is all and everything carries the spirit energy (Ashe) of the divine with in it.

The book, did later discuss how the pools of energy known as "chakras" could be correlated with different orishas and how focusing on them could essentially act in a similar manner. This book is outstanding for the beginner. It is also very engaging, I had not planned on reading the whole thing but a few pages but before I knew it, I was finished.

Its Amazing to me Buddhism, Hinduism, Ifa, and Kabbalah all essentially have some of the same, basic principles yet Hindus have been conditioned to fight Buddhist and vice verse, while Ifa and Kabbalah are considered "devil" worship and witchcraft. While Jews, Christians, and Muslims "supposedly" worship the exact same god. Just think what we, people of all faiths, could show the world, how we could change the whole of humanity if we stopped arguing over our petty and insignificant differences, put aside our, pride, egos and lust for power and authority and really, truly embraced the basics concepts of our respective faiths.

[Lois · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite thoroughly enjoyed this.
I did feel that there was a bit of focus on gender binary.
Not sure if I misunderstood.
Otherwise loved it.

[RavenclawRianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was extremely insightful and educational. This was the first book I read regarding an in depth view of Ifa. It definitely sparked a dedication in me to explore my relationship with my spirituality.
The information was laid out simply which made it much easier to get through. The charts and illustrations were also a great feature. The language Karade uses is very simply and his references are well placed.
As someone who identifies as spiritually atheist this book at no point made me uncomfortable. Karade presented scientific and historical facts as they were and did not attempt to skew or change them to fit into some agenda. Great read. I highly recommend it.
It is a quick read and I probably could have finished it in a couple days but I was on vacation and was also studying the GRE alongside reading this.

[Kerrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this book. Very short and precise I learned that the religion truly hasn't grown with the times, at least not according to what Baba Ifa Karade has written. It opened me up to the basic concepts but I can't see myself joining a religion-EVER- thanks to this book. Especially not one that seems to revere the ancestors more than the angels/orishas. I cannot live according to my ancestors who lives hundreds of years before me, in different places and different circumstances. Makes no sense. I do think that I may be able to incorporate parts of this tradition into my life though but I need another book to make sure. Onward!

[RK Byers · Rating 4 out of 5]

good intel, but I think I'm too old to get with any religion that requires a change of clothing.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good introduction to the Ifa religion and the history of the Yoruba.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many Pieces, No Cohesive Whole

This book provides a comprehensive overview of Yoruba religious beliefs, but presents an interesting problem for the non-African-descended reader. Many chants, examples of how to perform Divinations, and tables for aligning offerings with the specific Orissa are provided, making it exceedingly easy to engage in cultural appropriation - taking the bits one likes and ignoring the repeated instruction that any and all of these endeavors should be done only under the auspices and guidance of an initiated practitioner. If you are reading this book, be sure you engage with its topic respectfully; this is not a place to cobble together bits of ritual.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thorough, informative, well organized, and great as both a reference text and as a cover-to-cover read. I am in no position to rate a book like this one, but I was recommended this book by someone I trust and know is knowledgeable so I believe it's an excellent resource for learning more about the Yoruba tradition. I found it clear and comprehensible as someone with little prior knowledge of Yoruba tradition, and absolutely fascinating. I feel like I've learned a lot having read this book, and I appreciate the glossary and bibliography being included.

[Funmi Olaosebikan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this a very good introduction into yoruba religious concepts.

[Susan Baranoff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting insight into a religion I knew nothing about when I started. Reading for my Sabbat Reading Club as we try to learn more about religions of the world. Also a better understanding of Afro-centric culture.

[Gabrijela · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those wanting a comprehensive overview of the cultural relevance and religious legacies that Yoruba historical civilisation has to offer, this book comes in very handy! I took particular interest in writings regarding practices of divination, sacrifice, healing, and initiation. One can find such practices explained down to the finest detail with supporting photographs where appropriate... This book holds some of the most fundamental African esoteric teachings, otherwise little known due to lack of written records. This, therefore, highlights the importance of this written work and its significance in preserving cultural impact.

[*＊✿❀ Q ❀✿＊* · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great for introducing one to the concepts and practices of the Yoruba faith. Karade covers everything from the different Oriṣas to herbs, offerings, rituals and levels of devotion one can achieve. In my honest opinion, this is a fundamental read for those who are leaving the physical and mental slavery of Abrahamic religions and attempting to return to their cultural African practices but still have a bit of a colonized mentality and/or fear when it pertains to what the church has labeled as “black magic” or “evil”.

As someone who left organized religion eons ago, I’ll definitely be consulting this book often while on this lifelong continuous journey back to mySelf. 😌

[Jared Woods · Rating 4 out of 5]

When one envisions rich polytheistic canons in yesteryear religions, the characters that dance into focus usually originate from cultures such as Greek, Egyptian, or Hindu, along with a handful of others. However, as with so many subjects, the depths of Africa have been largely shoved aside, its indigenous folklore dismissed as simple animistic savagery without the complex metaphorical value that Western imaginations crave. I wouldn't go so far as to call this a conspiracy against the African continent, but it certainly is part of a greater thread of discrimination, which is easiest proven through the people of Yorubaland.

Originating in Nigeria, Yoruba is every bit as intricate as any other religious demographic, or perhaps even more so. Using numerous measurements, we could best compare it to Hinduism or Judaism/Hebrew, in that it expands beyond the restrictions of spiritual dogma and into a comprehensive culture, as Yoruba is also an ethnicity, a language, and a way of life. What makes it additionally noteworthy is its perseverance. The horrific slave trade of the 16th to 19th centuries ravaged Nigeria, and those prisoners were violently forced into Christian conversion. But what happened instead is that the Yoruba people simply smuggled their pantheon of gods (Orisha) into Catholic saints and worshipped them beneath these camouflages. This is how many of the African diaspora's religious syncretisms developed in the Americas, such as Santería and Haitian Vodou.

Sadly, the familiar tale of invasions and colonisation ultimately zapped traditions, and Nigeria is now evenly split between Islam and Christianity. However, many hang onto their Yoruba roots (Ìṣẹ̀ṣẹ), and interest in preservation continues to grow (which is a global trend). 

If you are looking to advance your knowledge on this topic, I am pleased to recommend Baba Ifa Karade's "The Handbook of Yoruba Religious Concepts". Without shying from the ugly history, he expresses his disdain professionally while presenting a crash course across this spiritual belief, never wasting a moment of your attention. For this reason, anyone can race through this book with minimal trouble, at times almost too quickly, as a full page may be dedicated to a short prayer and an illustration. The formatting was clean, and the references, tables, and diagrams assisted the journey. I come away not only with a deeper understanding of this culture but also surprised at how much it resonated with me. 

One of Karade's most astute moves was using other religions as comparative points to reinforce the message. Here, we see how Yoruba teachings correspond with different holy texts or how their deities have associations that match up to alternate polytheistic entities (and yes, that includes the Catholic saints). Interestingly, these correlations were tighter between Africa and the far east/southeast, where devotees utilised herbs and rituals for various purposes, while their focus on the body aligns perfectly with the chakras of Dharmic traditions (i.e., internalising certain Orisa per physical area). But above these were their 16 major Odu paths, comparable to the Ten Commandments or the Noble Eightfold Path, which I eagerly noted down as powerfully practical stepping stones towards better enlightenment. 

Once again, I am floored by the remarkable similarities between every system of faith, and my personal spiritual quest is reinvigorated with each one I uncover. It is in these shared fundamentals that the connection with the source resides. But it is through the nuances that we play the game. And yet, it is my firm observation that the more specific a religion becomes, the further away it has wandered from the most vital part: our unified spirit. Constantly, the case for indigenous beliefs resonating with superior energy becomes my conclusion.

Anyway, cool book! The perfect starting point for anyone wanting to learn the basics or build a stronger foundation before advancing to the next level. I may go either way.

THIS BOOK IS PART OF THE GREATER LAMB PROPHECY STUDIES! Book 1: The Lamb Prophecy is out now!

[Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not much to say about this book. Face value and current knowledge (which is limited) it seems like this is a good base document 0r book for exploration of a different religion. Some of the words take a minute to become accustomed to but there is a good reference vocabulary at the back. I can imagine that it would be easier to reference with a physical copy... I could just be a novice kindleer despite having the thing for over seven years. Anyway, I found this a very interesting read. I especially love the references in the back which allows the reader to find source documentation for further and more in depth exploration.

[Leola Aro · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's hard to find sources on African culture that don't demonise the African identity to put western culture/identity on a pedestal. This book is very aware of the colonial nomological net with which we view the yoruba identity and of the pitfalls of said net. It doesn't go too into depth, but it does give an overview of Yoruba culture that is a good starting point and doesn't cater to the colonial gaze. An easy read.

[Iryna Yaminska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiring and thought-provoking book on Yoruba spirituality. Because of its heavy emphasis on African ancestry, you can also understand certain rituals deeper, for instance — what’s the meaning of people dancing in masks? I really appreciated the ritual of spiritual baths, it’s something to take away for me personally.

“The spirit is not considered the soul of a person, although the words and often used interchangeably. It’s the spirit, once enlightened and elevated, that frees the soul.”

[Israel Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book stays true to its title, sticking to big concepts to deliver a short, accessible volume. I would have preferred more information about certain practices, especially divination, but it's a blessing to have any modern volume about Yoruba religion in English! Karade's insights were helpful during my exploration of West African religions, as described in my memoir, Gods of the Flesh.

[Nichola Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

So efficient

I love this book! It Grant's the novice with a deeper insight in IFA religion, ceremonies, rituals, etc. I'd recommend anyone just beginning their journey with IFA to read this amazing book.

[Brittany Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informational, I enjoyed it. Not the best audio book because it has charts and of course listening to a chart being read off is MADNESS, but it would have been great to have a hard copy to be able to review the chart myself. I’d probably reference this book again in the future.

[Olaseni Kehinde Precious · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book that delves into the history of the Yoruba people and Ifa as a religion. However, the lack of diacritics on Yoruba words forces readers to speculate about the meaning of certain terms rather than fully grasp them.

[Miyako R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended if you are a spiritual person. I will keep this book for a lifetime.

[Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. It gives basic information regarding Yoruba religious concepts. The illustrations were helpful. It’s a great start to my spiritual journey.

[Yemaja Maat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written!

[Dr De · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you bring some understanding to yoruba fir others to know.

[Silvio Cesar]

Comecei a leitura estou gostando muito, ifa filosofia de vida.

[Abi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very clear and concise, a great opener on Yoruba Religious Concepts.
With this, I can delve deeper into the topic, with this as a helpful reference.

[William Bookman III]

This is actually a good introduction. I was looking for some info on my next book. I'm glad I found this by mistake.

[Tesfa Baruch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A clear and informative guide

The book clearly lays the foundation of the Yoruba culture and religion in a way that a westerner can understand and appreciate.

[Ayana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is gets right to the point. This is well written guide.