Ẹgbẹ́ Ọ̀run

In Yorùbá cosmology, before birth each soul belongs to a collective of spirit companions in ọ̀run (heaven). These ẹgbẹ́ are considered one's true family and age-mates from the spiritual realm. The bonds formed there are believed to persist after incarnation, with the heavenly group sometimes calling the embodied soul back to their company.

Individuals with strong ẹgbẹ́ ọ̀run connections may experience recurring dreams of gatherings with unfamiliar yet familiar faces, unexplained childhood illnesses, or difficulty forming lasting earthly relationships. Children who die young are sometimes understood as having been reclaimed by their spiritual companions. Recognition of these patterns often leads families to consult Ifá for guidance.

Propitiation of ẹgbẹ́ ọ̀run typically involves periodic offerings and ceremonies to honor the heavenly companions and negotiate the person's continued presence in the physical world. These rituals acknowledge the legitimacy of the spiritual bonds while establishing boundaries that allow the individual to fulfill their earthly destiny without premature return to ọ̀run.