Askese: The Power of Spiritual Discipline in Ifá
Discover the power of Askese in Ifá—learn the difference between Ewò and Kizila, and how spiritual discipline unlocks divine wisdom.
📜 "He who exercises discipline walks with the Orishas." – Yoruba Proverb
Àború àboyè àboṣíse, dear family in Ifá and Orisha tradition,
Today, we dive deep into a powerful yet often overlooked aspect of spiritual growth: Askese—the sacred practice of self-discipline and restraint. Have you ever wondered why certain taboos (Ewò) or ritual restrictions (Kizila) exist in our tradition? Or why mastering self-control is the key to unlocking divine wisdom? Let’s explore how spiritual discipline strengthens your àṣẹ and aligns you with your destiny.
Introduction: Why Askese Matters in Ifá
In the Ifá-Orisha tradition, spiritual growth is not solely about receiving blessings—it is about refining oneself to become a vessel worthy of divine energy. This is where the concept of Askese comes into play.
Askese refers to intentional self-discipline and restriction, practiced for the purpose of spiritual elevation, purification, and alignment with divine forces. It includes fasting, celibacy, dietary restrictions, silence, mental discipline, and ritual abstinence. Contrary to what many believe, Askese is not a form of suffering but a method of sharpening one’s àṣẹ(spiritual power) and gaining greater wisdom.
For centuries, priests, devotees, and initiates have embraced Askese to strengthen their connection with the Orishas, maintain spiritual purity, and elevate their consciousness. The great sage Orunmila himself observed strict forms of Askese, proving that restraint is the price of enlightenment.
Today, we will explore Askese through the sacred teachings of Ifá, uncover a myth that illustrates its power, discuss the difference between Ewò and Kizila, and provide practical guidance for incorporating discipline into your spiritual journey.
Odu Ifá of the Day: Otura Meji – The Discipline of the Wise
In the sacred Odu Otura Meji, Orunmila teaches that self-discipline is the foundation of wisdom and success. This Odu warns against indulgence in excesses that weaken the spirit and encourages devotees to embrace restraint to cultivate divine knowledge.
Otura Meji tells us:
"He who cannot control himself will not control his destiny."
This Odu emphasizes that spiritual discipline is not just about avoiding “bad” behaviors—it is about consciously choosing what strengthens us and rejecting what weakens us. Ifá teaches that those who practice Askese—whether through fasting, self-restraint, or ritual observances—gain clarity, protection, and prosperity.
Askese is not a burden; it is a sacred key that unlocks our highest potential.
The Myth: Orunmila’s Askese and the Reward of Patience
Long ago, before Orunmila became the supreme diviner, he was given a warning by Èsù:
"The road ahead is full of temptation. If you resist, you will gain wisdom beyond all men."
Orunmila was instructed to avoid drinking palm wine, eating meat, and engaging in pleasures of the flesh for 16 years. The path was difficult, but he obeyed. He strengthened his spirit through fasting, meditation, and daily offerings to Ifá.
His followers and friends mocked him. “Why deny yourself what Olódùmarè has created?” they asked. But Orunmila remained steadfast, knowing that true power comes from discipline.
One day, after the 16th year, Olódùmarè sent a divine messenger:
"Because you have remained steadfast, you are now the keeper of all wisdom. From this day forward, kings and commoners alike will seek your counsel, for you have conquered yourself."
Orunmila had proven that self-mastery is the price of enlightenment. Through Askese, he became Agbónnìrègún, the supreme diviner, and gained the wisdom that all priests and devotees of Ifá follow to this day.
The lesson? Askese is not about suffering; it is about mastery. If we discipline ourselves, we gain control over our destiny.
