'Ori' and 'Iwa' as embodiment of Yoruba moral values

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Periodical article

Title:	'Ori' and 'Iwa' as embodiment of Yoruba moral values
Author:	Labeodan, Helen Adekunbi
Year:	2006
Periodical:	Orita: Ibadan Journal of Religious Studies
Volume:	38
Issue:	1-2
Pages:	117-134
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Nigeria
Subjects:	world view Yoruba ethics
Abstract:	'Ori', which literally refers to the 'physical head' in Yoruba (Nigeria), stands for several things in the philosophy, religious beliefs and practices of the Yoruba. Before his entry on earth, an individual chooses a type of 'Ori'. 'Ori' is also the symbol of Olodumare, the Creator, and of the essential personality - the soul of each man. 'Ori' is that spiritual essence which wields the greatest influence on man's life from birth to the grave. What this means is that man's life is predetermined by the type of 'Ori' chosen or the one affixed by Olodumare. This paper examines the question of whether the choice of one's 'Ori' has any effect on one's 'Iwa' (character), and, conversely, whether 'Iwa' has an important role to play in ensuring whether a good or bad 'Ori' comes to fruition. The paper argues that, among the Yoruba, both 'Ori' and 'Iwa' play major roles in moral evaluation. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract, edited]