How to become a devotee of Ifa?

Alaafia to the fam!It’s your people’s Babalawo, Esuwale Adigun A.K.A King Brujo—

If you’ve been following my content, you know I’ve traveled far and wide, circling the globe and coming right back to where the spirit calls. And something I hear all the time—especially when I’m in Atlanta—is this:

“How can I become Ifa?” “I want to be Ifa.”

Some folks even look at a practitioner and say, “That person is Ifa.”

So let me break it down.

Can You Become Ifa?

The short answer?No. You cannot become Ifa.

Why? Because Ifa is the word of Olodumare, the divine source. It’s also a praise name for Orunmila, who knows the word of Olodumare so well that people call him Ifa in reverence. Orunmila is the witness to all destinies—and unless you are the word of the Creator, unless you are the witness to destiny, you cannot be Ifa.

But here’s the good news...

You Can Be Onisese– How to become A Devotee of Ifa

You may not be Ifa, but you can be Onisese—a devotee. Someone who walks in alignment with the word of Olodumare and the guidance of Orunmila. And there are many ways to walk this path. So how to become a devotee of Ifa?

Let me explain.

1. The Devotee Who Seeks Guidance

Some people walk with the tradition by regularly consulting a priest or priestess. They follow the instructions from readings, do ebo (ritual offerings), and live according to divine guidance. They may not have shrines, but they’re deeply connected. They come to ceremonies, bembes, and are spiritually engaged. These people are Onisese.

2. The One Who Receives Their Hand of Ifa

Others take it further. They receive their Hand of Ifa (Isefa), which comes with spiritual tools, direction, and a deeper understanding of destiny. They may receive Esu, Orunmila, Ẹgbe, Egungun, Ori icons—tools that support their journey.

This person may not be a priest, but they are certainly Onisese.

3. Those Who Receive Specific Orisha Icons

Maybe someone didn’t get Isefa, but they needed to receive Egungun, Egbe Orun, or Opa Iku based on their destiny. They might be a child of Egbe and get pulled in deeper by ancestral ties. They are also Onisese.

4. Those Who Initiate

Then there are those who fully initiate into Itefa. Maybe they needed to heal. Maybe it was for their children. Maybe it was to break generational curses. But full initiation doesn’t always mean becoming a working priest. Many initiates simply walk their path in devotion. Still, at the root of it all—they are Onisese.

How Far You Go Is Up to You

Some start by studying Ifa philosophy, getting occasional readings, and doing ebo. Others go deeper, receiving shrines and tools. And some initiate fully. The truth?Where you start isn’t where you’ll end up.

IFA is so real, so powerful, that once you taste it—you want more. And the deeper you go, the more it reveals to you about your destiny. Life’s circumstances, your Egungun, and your own inner voice (Ori) will guide how far you go.

Like my abuela says:

“La sangre llama.” — The blood calls. Sometimes louder than your own mind.

It’s your ancestors, deep in your bones, calling you into alignment with who you truly are.

So What’s Next?

Whether you’re just getting readings or already walking with icons, you are on the path. Whether you stay in close consultation or become initiated—you’re Onisese. Your devotion defines you, not your title.

Final Words

Family, I’m here for you on this journey. This is real Ifa. If you’re looking for raw, authentic spiritual content—you’ve found the right place. I bring it straight from Nigeria, Benin, and wherever spirit leads.

Follow me, subscribe, and walk this path with strength, clarity, and blessing. I wish you the absolute best on your Ifa journey.

Odabo, family.

Written by Baba Esuwwale Adigun A.K.A King Brujo