Babalawo

Babaalawo or babaláwo in West Africa, literally means "father of secrets" in the Yoruba language. It is a spiritual title that denotes a high priest of the Ifá oracle. Ifá is a divination system that represents the teachings of the òrìṣà Ọrunmila, the òrìṣà of wisdom, who in turn serves as the oracular representative of Olodumare. The babalawo serves as a religious figure as well as a cultural bridge, helping to preserve language, proverbs, and ritual customs that are foundational to Yoruba identity.

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