Orí

/oh-REE/

Definition

Literally 'head'; the inner spiritual consciousness and personal destiny chosen by an individual before birth.

The Inner Guide

In Yorùbá belief, the Orí is the most important deity for an individual—even more significant than the Òrìṣà. No Òrìṣà can bless a person without the consent of their own Orí. It represents human potential, consciousness, and divine destiny.

Alignment

Before life on earth, every soul kneels before Olódùmarè to choose their distinct destiny (Orí-inú). The goal of human life, aided by Ifá divination, is to discover, nurture, and align one's actions with that chosen destiny rather than fighting against it.

Topics

destinyconsciousnessphilosophy

Related Terms

Olódùmarè

Deities & Spirits

The Supreme Creator in Yorùbá cosmology, the incomprehensible source of all existence and the ultimate authority over the universe.

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Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́

Core Concepts

Gentle or good character; the highest ethical standard in Yorùbá philosophy, emphasizing patience, balance, and moral integrity.

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Yorùbá Version Available

Orí

Orí ti inu wa; ó dúró fún ìṣètò ẹ̀mí, yíyàn ìpínlẹ̀ aṣẹ̀dá-ayé kí tò bi wà.

Ẹ ka ní Yorùbá →

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