Discover millions of ebooks, audiobooks, and so much more with a free trial

Only $11.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

Enlightenment: Cowries
Enlightenment: Cowries
Enlightenment: Cowries
Ebook395 pages4 hours

Enlightenment: Cowries

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

5/5

()

Read preview

About this ebook

ENLIGHTENMENT:COWRIES is a book intended to help mankind understand himself better and to be cautious of those around him. The Proverbs and Readings of Yoruba reflect back to the religious beliefs and practices of the peoples of West Africa. Divination was adopted by the Dahomeans and spread to the New World by their descendants. An honest diviner seeks to interpret the mysteries of life, to communicate the messages of the Orishas and Spirits, give guidance, alleviate controversies, unveil the past, and help to face the future.

ENLIGHTENMENT:COWRIES will lead the way in mans search for the ultimate truth of life.
LanguageEnglish
PublisherXlibris US
Release dateJan 20, 2005
ISBN9781462820986
Enlightenment: Cowries
Author

Regina C. Valdes

Sobre la Autora Regina C. Valdés ciudadana Cubana-Americana graduada en Master en Educación, ejercio 29 años de servicio como educadora en el estado de New Jersey. Fué inspirada por su tia Ana R. Valdés a conocer la religión Afro-Cubana originaria de Cuba en tiempos remotos. En 1967, ella conoce a Leopoldina Arguíz [Ominiqué] y años más tarde la inicia en Ocha como su ahijada y fué entonces que ella sintió la fé y valor que esta religión le inspiraba. Su madrina Ominiqué le deja antes de morir un gran legado de atesorados secretos de la religión que ella a su vez había heredado de su madrina Aurora Lamar.{Obatolá] Y con todos estos secretos Regina quiere ofreser a las interesads en la religión una “Iluminación” para su mejor entendimiento.

Related to Enlightenment

Related ebooks

Religion & Spirituality For You

View More

Related articles

Reviews for Enlightenment

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
5/5

2 ratings0 reviews

What did you think?

Tap to rate

Review must be at least 10 words

    Book preview

    Enlightenment - Regina C. Valdes

    ENLIGHTENMENT:

    COWRIES

    Regina C. Valdes

    Copyright © 2005 by Regina C. Valdes.

    All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

    This book was printed in the United States of America.

    To order additional copies of this book, contact:

    Xlibris Corporation

    1-888-795-4274

    www.Xlibris.com

    Orders@Xlibris.com

    24900

    Contents

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    INTRODUCTION The Common Goal of Inheritance—Joy in Life

    CHAPTER 1 The Beginning of the Beginning

    CHAPTER 2 Arrows between Brothers

    CHAPTER 3 Tragedy

    CHAPTER 4 Curiosity

    CHAPTER 5 Sweet and Bitter

    CHAPTER 6 Honesty

    CHAPTER 7 Adultery

    CHAPTER 8 The Head, Mind and Heart

    CHAPTER 9 Instability

    CHAPTER 10 Damning

    CHAPTER 11 Ungratefulness

    CHAPTER 12 Torment

    CHAPTER 13 Sickness

    CHAPTERS 14-15-16

    Addendum

    APPENDIX

    Glossary

    DEDICATION

    This book is dedicated to the great and

    unforgettable Santeros and their successors.

    My Godmother: Ominiqué—

    Leopoldina Noguerola Arguíz [Monina]

    My Grandmother: Obatolá—Aurora Lamar

    My Godfather: Changó Di Na—Aquilino Formosa [Nené]

    To all my elders who founded this religion . . .

    To all those who have been initiated into Ocha . . .

    24900-VALD-layout.pdf

    Sunrise

    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    Thank you,

    my parents,

    my daughters,

    my aunt, Oshún Arollí,

    and my two special friends,

    who supported and encouraged me

    to keep my promise to

    OMINIQUE!

    Maferefun Olordumare—Maferefun Egun—Maferefun Ocha

    24900-VALD-layout.pdf

    The Cowries and How They Are Used in Santeria Readings

    Since cowries [Seashells] were abundant on the shores of the western coast of Africa, they have been used from the early days of Santeria. The method of throwing cowries to do readings during a consultation is still in practice today. The cowries are received in their natural form from the sea. The face of the cowry is flat and smooth with a slit top to bottom. The back is almost round and smooth. In Africa the cowries are called Diloggun derived from Meridiloggun which means 16.

    In order to prepare the cowries for an initiation to become a Santero/a, the Godparents of Ocha are the only ones authorized to prepare the cowries for the ceremony. The male Godparent is known as Babalawo-Babalocha, Oriate, or Italero. Iyalocha is synonymous with female Godparent of Ocha. A set or hand of cowries is prepared. This set consists of 18 cowries but only 16 are used in the throw. The remaining cowries are called Addele. All of the Orishas, which are mentioned in the Appendix, have a set of 18 cowries. However, Elegua has a set of 21. Elegua’s cowries are used in readings. In the readings only 16 are thrown. The other 5 remain to the side.

    The history of interpreting the cowries had its beginning in ancient Africa. The interpretation originates from the ancient Ifa-Yoruba consultation method based on a principle of calculation. This is a basic system of divination, a series of 16 squared, or a combination of 256 permutations. Today we call these combinations Signs. Each sign has its own name, proverb, warning, and legend. The cowries serve as a communication system to guide the Santero/a in the readings.

    The cowries can only be received on the third day of initiation [Ita]. They are presented to the novice directly from the respected hands of the Godparent in Ocha. The novice then throws the cowries for the first time onto a mat. Each throw is interpreted. This becomes a rather long and arduous ceremony because each of the Orishas speaks through the signs that appear in the cowries. These signs are interpreted and recorded by the Godparent. On the seventh day of the initiation, the Godparent presents to the novice a sack containing the proper amount of cowries. Each set of cowries represents the major and minor Orishas. The Elegua’s cowries are the only ones used for regular consultations with a client. The remaining cowries are securely stored. They are brought out only for a reading in a life threatening circumstance. It is to be noted that not everyone who is initiated will become a diviner, reader, or practitioner in Santeria.

    The reader is forbidden to use the Elegua’s cowries for his or her personal consultation. Consultation must come from the Godparent. In the event that the Godparent is no longer alive then the consultation must be from a high priest [Babalawo] or another authentic Santero/a.

    When the initiated receives the blessing from the Godparent to be a diviner or reader this new Santero/a must strive to acquaint himself with immense knowledge about humanity. The Santero/a must rise to a spiritual level that is respected by the client in order that he receives the advice or warnings with light and faith.

    The reader uses his Elegua’s cowries for his clients. This set consists of 21 cowries with added components or elements called igbo. The igbos are the necessary accessories that are used to ask questions of the client during a consultation. The word igbo means to hold or sustain. There are 5 kinds of igbos used during a consultation. 1-Ota is a small stone that indicates Ire [Good]. It is believed that stones contain energy or life. 2-Aye is a long, thin, white seashell. In Ire it indicates beauty on the exterior; in Osobo (Bad) it indicates impurity from its interior which contains debris and bacteria. 3-Ewe Ayo is a seed from the guacolate tree. In Ire it indicates children as fruit from the trees. In Osobo it indicates sickness because fruit falls from the sick tree. 4-Egugun is a small animal vertebra. In Ire it indicates children born from our flesh and bones. In Osobo it indicates death because when we are buried the remains become bones. 5-Efun is a ball of powder made from white eggshells. It indicates goodness and purity. In Efun there is no evil.

    The consultation process is as follows: The reader prepares the area where the consultation will take place. The Santero/a places Elegua’s 21 cowries, the igbos, a jicara (a coconut cup filled with fresh water) or a glass of water on a white towel which covers a desk or table. In a ritual ceremony this can only be done on the floor that is covered with a straw mat. In this ceremony the Babalawo, Oriate, or Italero would do the reading. In all other readings the reader would continue as first stated. The reader separates Elegua’s cowries into sixteen putting aside the remaining 5. To begin, the reader sprinkles water onto the floor to his right and left saying, Omi-tutu, Ona-tutu tutu-laroye tutu-ile. Fresh water, fresh path, refresh that which is in turmoil, refresh this house! The reader then rotates the cowries on the mat or towel and focuses, praying over the cowries calling upon the elders, personal spiritual protectors, and the Orishas. This form of spiritual concentration is called Moyuba. After praying, the cowries are presented to the client’s forehead while saying, Kosi iku, kosi ano, kosi eyo, kosi ofo, Aikubabawa. This means, let there be no death, no sickness, no turmoil, no loss in family, friends, or godchild. Let in goodness and eternal life. The cowries are now thrown by the reader. Those that appear with the smooth, white slit side up are those to be counted and the number recorded. The cowries that fall with the back facing up are not to be read. In the event that the cowries all fall with the back facing up, the reading must immediately be stopped. The reason for this is explained in Chapter Zero. After a normal first throw a second throw is done. The outcome of each throw is recorded. The reader proceeds to interpret the signs. The reader matches the signs with the proverbs. This prompts the flow of the entire reading, registry, and consultation. Here is an example. If on the first throw of the 16 cowries, 9 smooth, white cowries face up and on the second throw 10 smooth white cowries face up, the reader records 9-10. The reader then says, Osa-Ofun; everything is attained through patience. This proverb would be The race between the hare and the turtle.

    The reader must be knowledgeable of the signs. They indicate which igbos to use in the interpretations, warnings, and legends. The two igbos which are given to the client to throw will indicate a Yes or a No. The client’s part is to take the two Igbos into his hand and shake them with his hands closed together. He separates them, holding one in each hand not letting the reader see them. During the time the client is shaking the igbos the reader is speaking to the cowries as to what the interrogation will be. There should be total synchronization between the separating of the igbos and the throw of the cowries. The reader asks the client to reveal only one igbo either from the right or left hand. This will determine whether the answer to the question being asked is affirmative or negative. The method of requesting which hand is to be revealed is based on the possible pattern of the cowries’ combinations and permutations. These are called Oddu. There is a rule on how to request the igbos from the client’s hands. For all major signs 1-2-3-4-8-10-12-13-14-15-16, the cowries are thrown only once and the left hand is requested to be revealed. In the minor signs 5-6-7-9-11, the cowries are thrown twice. If in the second throw a major sign appears, the Igbo in the right hand is requested to be revealed. When a minor sign is followed by another minor sign and is double the first throw e.g. 5-5, 6-6, 7-7, 9-9, 11-11 then the igbo in the left hand is requested to be revealed. If in the first throw a minor appears and in the second throw a minor not a double to the first appears e.g. 5-6, 5-7, 5-9, 5-11, 6-7, 6-9, 6-11, 9-11 the igbo in the right hand is requested to be revealed. In consecutive throws if the first throw is a minor and the second throw is a minor with these cowries facing up 11-9, 11-7, 11-6, 11-5, 9-7, 9-6, 9-5, 7-6, 7-5, 6-5, then the igbo in the left hand is requested to be revealed. The consultation process between the reader and client may be simple or complex. It depends on the energies, positive or negative, that are revealed through the Orishas mouthpiece, Diloggun—Cowries.

    Throughout this book you will find the signs, the proverbs, the warnings, the advice, the remedies, and the legends all interpreted by the Cowries—Caracoles—Seashells—Diloggun. They are, as has been stated, the mouthpiece of the Orishas.

    INTRODUCTION

    The Common Goal of Inheritance—Joy in Life

    Human beings exist on this earth spending time not only dreaming but wishing and hoping. No matter how much we are born with, whether it is an abundance of material gifts or the gift of talent, we continue to crave more and more of what we do not have. Some may say this is greed. Others of a more ambitious nature will say, This is good, you have to keep on hoping and working hard to make your dreams come true.

    There are many people, who at the time of a relative or friend’s death, are just waiting to find out what has been bequeathed to them in properties or valuables, and how these will be distributed. This exists, has existed, and will exist throughout the centuries. They have not paused to think that the greatest asset, which exists in a human, is love, understanding, trust, sharing, respect, and collaboration among people. These are the true assets of a great inheritance.

    We all realize that when we come into this world the first and strongest fact is that we learn to survive. We do things that will give us pleasure, comfort, and joy. Often, there is sacrifice and most times great sacrifice to attain our goals. Usually, people do what is best for them and their survival. Some people have been more fortunate than others. They have been born into surroundings that are already comfortable. They will have a good and easy life. These are the fortunate ones who have inherited material gifts from family or devoted friends. These people are respected and admired in our present society. They use their money to hopefully make more. While doing so, they set trends and motivate the less fortunate to have high goals in order to attain the same gains. Others are wealthy in another way. Materially they may have little; spiritually they may be a giant. Mother Teresa owned nothing, yet she was able to give of herself unselfishly working with and for the less fortunate year after year. We are all aware that she had been one of the most admired women of all times. There are many other people who have inherited a great amount of love and are willing to share, spread, and nurture it. These lovers of humanity are needed to unconditionally help the less fortunate. They can implant love and consideration, which can be infinite, instead of material gifts, which can have a limit.

    There are those born with talent. There is no explanation as to why some are more gifted than others. It is this phenomenon that makes the talented so respected and wonderful. These talents or gifts, which capture the Arts and Sciences, are probably the most difficult to understand simply because we do not have the gift. We can enjoy, we can appreciate, we can learn, and we can respect. Those born with the talent to express life through the Arts can impart more joy than can be imagined.

    Since the beginning, humans have been striving to attain more and more value through material possessions. Yet, few have been the times that they have searched for the light that enhances the power of knowledge. Those born with a depth of knowledge can give knowledge because it is theirs to give. There is a great responsibility for those born with knowledge. They have to be not only diligent in imparting knowledge; they must also be very patient. Human beings sometimes resist truth or close their hearts and minds to it. Sometimes the truth is too difficult or painful to accept. Hopefully, we can learn from the wisdom of others. We are only permitted on this earth for a limited time. We must use the gifts we came with, not only for ourselves, but for the advantage of others as well. We must keep in mind that the highest respect must go to those who are gifted with knowledge. It is they who will give us the truth and the way back to the Creator.

    Our time on this earth is not permanent. Our progress will be measured by how well we use our gifts and talents. Eternity is the reward.

    In this guide you will find advice, which has been in existence throughout the entire world for many centuries. It originated in Africa and finally spread to the United States. It is necessary to share our great Yoruba inheritance in order to maintain it. As modern technology advances natural forces and human knowledge have to be nurtured so that we remain connected from generation to generation.

    We must keep our pride, being proud to use the name Santero/a. It is for this reason that I would like to share with you, my brothers and sisters, old and young, my great inheritance of Ocha.

    I have been blessed in knowing that I was left with a powerful and marvelous inheritance. Many scientists, philosophers, doctors, educators, lawyers, politicians, and other distinguished individuals follow the methods and norms set by their ancestors. Following their example, I will continue, with ultimate respect, the norms implemented by my Godmother of Ocha.

    Thank you for taking the time and interest in reading this book! I hope you can appreciate and gain from the knowledge I wish to share with you. May you receive many blessings and experience the joy of life.

    Love: More Than a Commandment

    The magic and mystery of love is infinite. We are uniquely formed and developed in the darkness of our mother’s womb. Within that darkness, there is much love and warmth shared between two human beings. Throughout that time of development until the actual moment of birth, the cutting of the umbilical cord separates the powerful magic of emotions and contact. A simple analogy would be to compare this to the cable that gives power to the rocket or the spacecraft for takeoff into its mission.

    We are able to complete a mission in our lifetime as well. Our mission is mystical, known for all eternity by our Creator. It is up to us to fulfill our mission the best way possible. We should use our gifts with honesty, understanding, and love for the benefit of not only ourselves, but also with those we touch in our daily lives. The growth of our talents, the truth, and most of all knowledge must affect future generations.

    We should not do things simply because they are mandated. We must think critically, comprehend, and apply our knowledge to the given situation. This is necessary in order to perceive it and continue with a positive, kind, warm, and loving attitude. This in turn will make things less complicated, and more meaningful. The essence of love: sharing and understanding should surpass all greed and selfishness. It is for this purpose that we strive, keeping in mind all the norms and standards nurtured within our body and soul. This will remain with us until the time comes when we are to return to our Creator.

    With great emotion and respect, I write to express my experience of inheriting so much love, understanding, and powerful knowledge left to me by my Godmother of Ocha. There are many of you who have been initiated by godmothers or godfathers for many different reasons. You have been given a second chance in life. These godparents, like natural parents, put their lives at risk when giving new life. Therefore, it is extremely important to respect, love, and learn all they have to teach. There will come a time when the nourishing cord will be severed. Once the tie is broken, the offspring must be prepared to continue the mission of helping others, creating links on the chain of life.

    All this powerful knowledge is to be treasured and respected because it goes back many centuries. The spirit of the elders will always be there to serve as a guide. This is the reason that the followers should be rid of all negative and egotistic aspirations. The wearing of pure coconut white should not only be the outer clothing, but also symbolize the purity of the soul. This becomes a constant reminder to receive eternal light from the guiding spirit and guardian angel.

    The Greatest Bond Between Novice and Teacher is that of WISDOM Acquired, Practiced, and Implemented

    Throughout a Lifetime

    A true teacher is dedicated, devoted, and caring. She is one who has the knowledge and capabilities to give, share, communicate, understand, and impart what she possesses. She must be strong minded, yet warm and patient. The teacher serves as a valuable role model, just as our parents and godparents. One person is responsible for many individuals. While the teacher instructs, evaluates, and guides the students, she acquires a keen sense of observation. It is through this scrutiny that teachers, parents, and godparents are able to detect which individuals are capable of carrying out and accomplishing various tasks. Among the learners, there is usually one who presents an extreme challenge. Mutual respect and admiration can persuade the young learner to be more accepting and tolerant of his responsibility. Here, the greatest bond of wisdom originates—knowledge of the elders versus knowledge of the young and impatient novice.

    I, Regina Valdes, an eager, caring, and open-minded learner, who became initiated into Ominique’s House of Ocha on December 18,1976. At this time I also began my teaching career in an elementary school. I had a dual commitment of service to mankind. As a novice I got anxious and frustrated at times because I wanted to learn quickly and reach the mastery level. It was only through a difficult and enormous amount of work and sacrifice that I was able to gain the power of wisdom.

    When I departed from my godmother I understood and appreciated what was intended by the teacher. Putting the theory into practice has been my life’s challenging work. I do it respectfully because I was able to analyze, comprehend, evaluate, and synthesize the information given to me by my Godmother of Ocha. I willingly put it into my personal life. There were times in the very beginning when I became frustrated. It was not easy to accept and comply with all the tasks. I learned my lessons well in spite of the demanding physical and mental energy. The magnificent power of wisdom was already in me. These tasks served as tests of tolerance to bring out my patience, caring, understanding, and sharing of goodness within. I learned to use positive, aggressive, and intelligent thinking to achieve the success of what I set my mind, heart, and soul to accomplish.

    The following pages are a collection of proverbs and their interpretation that have been in existence for centuries. These are precious readings according to the signs. All the readings are done through the interpretation of cowries [Caracole Shells]. The advisor interprets the shells from the manner in which they fall when carefully thrown onto the mat or designated place. The shells facing up are the ones to be interpreted. They are represented by numbers, a specific name for the particular number and a saying for interpretation. Once the advisor and the client understand these readings, they will become more aware of the existing situation in their lives. The readings are sometimes followed by their original ancient history called Yoruba Legends in this book. They tell of the precautions that are to be considered for both the good and bad of the person’s well being. This serves as a means of communication between the known and the unknown. In this New Millennium this book will serve as a user-friendly tool for a virtual reality consultation. The book is the advisor and you are the client.

    CHAPTER 1

    OKANRAN OKANA:

    The Beginning of the Beginning

    Okanshosho, Ofitele Ofatele There is no good without bad. Okanran is born out of Ofun [Phenomenon] [Unknown]

    Orishas who speak through Okanran are: Elegua, Aganju, Eshu, Obatala, Ogun, and Shango.

    1-1 Okaran Meji [Okana Melli] You die through your own tongue. In your surroundings there is imminent death of three people. Okanran indicates that you should make an offering to the Orishas. Okanran also indicates an offering to the spirit or cleansing [Ebo] to Eshu, Ogun, or Aganju.

    Okanran’s Warnings: You must pay attention to the advice given. If you are doing something wrong or are planning on doing it, you will be discovered. You are a non-believer, a non conformist, and a scoffer. You do not listen to advice and do not like being told the truth. You are a distrusting and doubting individual who must avoid aversion. You must not lift your hand to hit anyone. You must not be violent; you might end up in the hands of justice. Okanran speaks about misfortunes. You should not slander nor swear and must refrain from arguing or fighting in your home. This brings bad luck. You will have no one to help you, even within your own family. If you do not listen to advice, you will suffer the consequences. You must not keep anything in your house unless you know what it is. All your valuables must be kept well secured. Financially, you are going through difficult times. This sign warns of robbery and loss of valuables. You should avoid conflicts with your partner and not listen to gossip. You must try to be conscientious when dealing with other people. You must be careful when taking a journey, especially over the sea. You have to be careful of accidents, bites from dogs and other animals. You should be aware of invitations; you might get hurt in that place. Okanran says that since the snake did not listen to advice and did not do cleansing [Ebo], it was left without legs and arms and crawls for the rest of its life. If at the time of the readings the sign brings luck [Ire], you still must do some kind of cleansing [Ebo]. For example, clean the doorstep and door of the house. Make an offering to Eshu at the main entry door of the house, and pray for deceased relatives. This sign warns against wrong doings.

    REMEDIES ACCORDING TO THE READINGS:

    Death [Iku] You come for consultation yet you desire death or death within the family, perhaps an elder or a child. The shadow of a dead person wants to take the individual. You must pay what you owe the deceased and cleanse yourself.

    Sickness [Ano] Hemorrhages—Death is provoked by annoyance. There is sickness within the family, an elder or a child. The sickness is a definite one. It could even strike close friends. The advisor has to ask to whom this sickness is affecting, since death is to follow. The sick person has to be taken to the doctor immediately.

    Envy, arguments [Araye] You should avoid fights, arguments, and discussions. You must not play tricks on anyone. Obstinance is your misfortune. You must not use any weapons, nor walk alone in dark streets at night. You should not get out of bed to find out what is going on in a disturbance. You must avoid violence and not mistreat dogs.

    Bad luck [Osobo] Yesterday’s friend is today’s enemy. This sign warns of witchcraft and its harms. You must not drink alcoholic beverages nor eat in untrustworthy places. You must be careful of fires and accidents and above all, not listen to gossip.

    1-2 Okanran Eji Oko [Okana Eyioko]: When shooting arrows, be very careful how you shoot. You might end up hurting yourself or your best friend.

    This sign indicates apparent struggles and control. There are obstacles in the way, due to the fact that there is someone who has a hold on you, making it impossible for you to think and act on your own. Celebrate life with food and gifts to the Orishas. This sign indicates that you are an explosive person. Offerings are to be given to Shango, who has liberated you from illegal matters and from falling into the hands of the law. You must avoid a person who would remind you of your failures and shortcomings. Something of witchcraft has been placed in your food to take hold of you. Bad luck and all its influences are derived in this sign. Under this sign you are a person of questionable integrity. Be careful of accidents, of getting bitten by a dog or any other animal. Avoid travel for a while. Do not store anyone’s belongings in your home. There might be a search and you will pay the consequences. Avoid conflicts with a partner. Do not damn or use blasphemy. Try not to lend personal belongings; it will be difficult to reclaim them. There is a spirit haunting at your doorstep. Remain at home to protect your possessions. There is someone wishing that you would move from where you are living. Be more reserved and not so outspoken about your dreams and aspirations. Never say that you are smart. Be Patient! You will find out in time all the good things that Olordumare has in store for you. Do not provide shelter in your home to anyone. One who enters as a peasant might become the master. A family member might have a leg illness. Someone in your house has a stone stored in a cup to cause hard times. This sign indicates complications [Osobo]. If you have to travel, the trip results in a misfortune. If the sign indicates luck [Ire] then everything will be beneficial. There are many obstacles under this sign. You will surpass all the contradictions if the stones are removed from the path of your life. You might have to travel to help someone who is ill. For your own sake be independent. If there are twins in your family, and one is deceased, pray for the soul of that person. If the person being read is a female, she has to be aware that her male companion wishes to do something wrong. The same is true if the person being read is a male, the female companion wishes to do something wrong. Be careful of losing your job. This sign requests the feast of the drums to the Orishas. This will serve as a cleansing [Ebo]. If this sign comes out on the third day [Ita] of the initiation, the person has to offer the feast of the drums to all the Orishas at different intervals during his life span.

    YORUBA LEGEND: There once was a couple who had twins. One of the twins died. The parents had done everything possible to save him. The surviving twin became disoriented. He was always in trouble and did not want to work. The parents decided to have their son married, hoping this would put stability in his life. After a while, this marriage was dissolved. The twin remarried many times. The parents’ only hope was one day to see their son calm. A family from the interior of the country came to town. The son married the daughter from this family. The new wife, not knowing the customs of the town, began doing things to control her husband. His mother noticed a change in him. She went to Oba for a reading. Oba sent her to see Ogun and Ochosi. They would liberate her son from the trap in which he had been placed.

    1-3 Okanran Ogunda [Okana Ogunda]: Your dead enemy wants the worst for you. The dead are not dead. Tragedy within the home

    Be careful of tragic incidents in the home. These might lead to bloodshed. You have a lack of self-control. Avoid lifting your hand to hit anyone. Torment within, leads to outbursts of blood from the mouth or nose. Your enemies do not rest. Guard all corners of your house, especially the back. This sign warns of bad luck and distrust. Avoid arguments. Be careful of animal bites. Do not store anyone else’s belongings; there might be a police search. Do not fight with your partner. Whatever you start, be sure to finish. Do not leave anything incomplete. You are dealing with people who are very outspoken. Do not confide your secrets to them. Do not contradict or argue even if you are right. If you are a male, do not flirt with married women. If you are a female, do not flirt with married men. Be careful of someone trying to use witchcraft against you. Never advise anyone to have an abortion. Someone who visits your home wants to rob you. Use your head and think straight. Do not let anyone lure you into doing something of which you are not accustomed. Do not carry any weapons. You are prone to back pains or a kidney disorder. Do not wear anything that is twisted or tangled. Do not drag anything. Do not have anything that crawls in the house. If you are planning to travel, do not do so until eight days after this reading, and you have accomplished what the reader has advised. Think out your plans with good, clear thoughts. There are many who envy you and wish to do you harm. Do not take the law into your own hands. Health wise, you have to take care of your intestines. If female, you have to avoid complications with your menstruation. When Okanran appears in this sign, and you are already initiated into Ocha, you then have to receive the ceremony of the knife [Pinardo]. This is necessary to strengthen your life and avoid possible complications from an operation. In Okanran Ogunda, you have to be cleansed with raw meat [obi, opo, oti, ono, efun, ecueya, aguardo] which will destroy bad luck. Once again, do not argue with the authorities. Try not to go fishing. The fish might be your gift someday when you are obligated to make an offering. Do not associate with people when you are the third party involved. Be careful of a puncture, it might cause a spasm. It is advisable to go to the doctor for a physical exam. Take care of your heart. You were born to be independent. Do not become a slave to anyone.

    1-4 Okanran Irosun [Okana Irosun]: Torment within the body—Hemorrhage from the mouth, nose, or anus—Complete what is started.

    This sign indicates treason. Your enemies want to see your downfall. Be cautious where you walk. If

    Enjoying the preview?
    Page 1 of 1