Yoruba culture is one of the richest and oldest traditions in Africa, known for its proverbs, folktales, songs, and incantations (known as òfò or àṣẹ). Incantations hold a special place in Yoruba spirituality — they are believed to carry power when spoken with intent, often used for prayers, protection, blessings, or even to confront challenges.
One popular line often referenced in Yoruba culture is:
“Kini ki a ṣe fún Ogbeni Farotika? Ó fé fi owó bá ìdà mi lójú.”
Loosely translated, this asks:
“What should we do for Mr. Farotika? He dares to point a sword at my eyes with his hands.”
It is a poetic way of expressing defiance — a refusal to be intimidated by danger or threats. Yoruba incantations often use imagery and metaphors like this to convey deep meanings and intentions.
The Role of Incantations in Yoruba Tradition
In Yoruba belief, words are not just words; they carry spiritual weight. The concept of àṣẹ means “so let it be” or “the power to make things happen.” When a Yoruba elder, priest (babaláwo), or even a mother speaks certain words over someone, it is believed those words can shape destiny, protect, heal, or even curse.
For example:
- Protection – Incantations are spoken to ward off evil or misfortune.
- Blessings – Parents and elders speak positive incantations to invoke favor and success on children.
- Justice – Incantations may call for truth to be revealed or for wrongdoers to face consequences.
Breaking Down Some Yoruba Phrases
Some of the lines you provided carry deeper meaning:
- “Eniba dale ore, abale lo.”
Meaning: “Whoever betrays friendship should be abandoned.”
A call for loyalty and trust in relationships. - “Awa ti b’Èṣù jẹun, Èṣù ò lè ṣe wa.”
Meaning: “We have dined with Esu (the deity of crossroads); Esu cannot harm us.”
This reflects the confidence and spiritual protection of the speaker. - “Eyele o ni bọnileje, bọnilemu ko dojokan iponju ko yeri.”
Meaning: “The dove will not spill blood; innocence will not lead to suffering.”
A reminder of innocence and purity triumphing over hardship.
These phrases show how Yoruba incantations mix poetic language, metaphors, and spiritual conviction to convey power.
Modern-Day Yoruba Incantations
In today’s world, many Yoruba people still use incantations — but often for positive and motivational reasons. Instead of only focusing on traditional rituals, Yoruba Christians, Muslims, and cultural practitioners now use affirmations and declarations like:
- “Orí mi gbé mi” – “My destiny will lift me.”
- “Àṣẹ yíò ṣẹ” – “So shall it be.”
These are used like spoken prayers for success, health, and favor.
Biblical Influence and Yoruba Incantations
Interestingly, Yoruba Christians have infused biblical verses with Yoruba àṣẹ. For instance:
“Oluwa ni Oluso Agutan mi, emi ki yio ṣa n’kan.”
(“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1)
This merging of traditional Yoruba expression and Christian scripture creates powerful faith declarations spoken in Yoruba.
Conclusion
Yoruba incantations (òfò or àṣẹ) show the deep respect the Yoruba culture has for the power of the tongue. Whether used in ancient rituals, everyday blessings, or modern affirmations, they reflect a belief that words shape reality.
When spoken with intent, these phrases become more than poetry — they become forceful declarations of faith, courage, and hope.
What about you?
Do you remember any Yoruba incantations or powerful affirmations your grandparents or parents used to say?
