In Afa, Obala Ijite represents the sense of smell, a divinatory faculty linked with Agwu (spirit of divination) and Ikuku (air element). Smell beyond being a physical sense is also viewed in Afa as a subtle path of revelation, exposing what is hidden e.g freshness or decay, danger or delight, long before sight or touch confirms it. Centered around in breath, smell bridges the inner and outer worlds, ties memory to presence, and functions as a spiritual herald of truth. This teachings expounds on that insight.

Obala N’abo is the sacred aperture through which reality reveals itself. In Afa consciousness, to see is to come in touch with cosmic light (fire). Through Obala N’abo, the hidden emerges into form, and the veiled speaks through symbol. As the sense of sight it serves as the eye of light — the portal through which reality becomes visible and knowable. It allows us not only to see, but to understand, to witness the movement of truth from mystery into form. This teaching explores Obala Naabo as the sense of sight with the power of illumination — a fire that reveals, discerns, and directs.

In Afa mystical thought, the Dibia exists as a vessel of cosmic arbitration. Obala Otule — the “unveiling of disputed matters” — is not just an appellation; it is a spiritual technology. Obala, the act of making hidden things visible, reflects the light-consciousness of Anwu—illumination that pierces veils. Otule, the speech of resolution, is the Dibia’s sacred utterance, not born of ego, but of divine appointment. Together, they form the ritual of revelation and response: to see clearly and to speak justly. In this, the Dibia becomes both mirror and mouthpiece of truth — a child of light (Umu Anwu) navigating the troubled cases of human souls with the language of stars.

Afa language which is used primarily for divination and spiritual consultation in Igbo spirituality, consists of specific terminologies that typically differ from everyday (regular) Igbo words. Knowing these Afa terms and their regular Igbo and English equivalents can provide deeper insight into your cultural and spiritual practices as an Odinani practitioner. This post contains Afa terms with “Obara”, their regular Igbo equivalents, and their English meanings.