Obatala Invocation & Altar Guide
Obatala is a prominent deity in the Yoruba religion, which originated in West Africa and is practiced by the Yoruba people. While Obatala is not directly associated with witchcraft in the traditional sense, he plays a significant role in Yoruba spirituality and religious practices. In Yoruba mythology, Obatala is considered one of the "Orishas, " or deities, who are intermediaries between humans and the Supreme Being, Olodumare. Obatala is often associated with creativity, purity, wisdom, and justice. He is considered the creator of human bodies and is believed to be responsible for shaping human destinies. In Yoruba religious practices, rituals and ceremonies are performed to honor Obatala and seek his blessings. Devotees may offer prayers, songs, dances, and sacrifices to invoke his presence and seek guidance or assistance in matters related to creativity, healing, peace, and justice. It's important to note that Yoruba religion and its practices are separate and distinct from witchcraft. Yoruba religious practices are part of a rich and complex spiritual system that has its own beliefs, rituals, and deities. Witchcraft, on the other hand, refers to various practices and beliefs related to magic, spellcraft, and the manipulation of energies. These two systems of belief are not mutually exclusive, and individuals may incorporate aspects of both into their personal spiritual practices based on their cultural background and personal beliefs. Who is Obatala?
• A white cloth or altar cloth. This is the foundation of your altar and should be white, as Obatala is associated with purity and peace. • A statue or image of Obatala. This could be a figurine, a painting, or a print. • A white dove, a snail shell, or a white crown. These are all objects that are associated with Obatala and his powers. • White flowers, white rice, or white eggs. These are all foods that are traditionally offered to Obatala. • A candle or incense. This can help to create a sacred space and atmosphere. • A prayer book or journal. This is where you can record your thoughts, feelings, and experiences as you work with Obatala. • Other items that are sacred to you or that you believe would be meaningful to Obatala. This could include crystals, herbs, or other personal items. You can also incorporate other elements into your altar setup, such as: • A picture of yourself or your family. This can help to create a sense of connection between you and Obatala. • A symbol of your faith or beliefs. This could be a cross, a Star of David, or any other symbol that is important to you. • A piece of jewelry or other personal item that you associate with Obatala. This can help you to feel closer to him when you are at your altar. Altar setup for Obatala
"Great and revered Obatala, Orisha of creativity and wisdom, I humbly come before you with reverence and respect. I seek your guidance and blessings in my life. Obatala, creator of human bodies, You shape destinies with your divine hands. I ask for your guidance in manifesting my true purpose, Grant me clarity of mind and creative inspiration. O Obatala, embodiment of purity and justice, I pray for your guidance in upholding righteousness, Help me to walk the path of fairness and compassion, Guide me in making just decisions for the highest good of all. Obatala, I invoke your calming presence, Bring peace and harmony into my life and surroundings, Let your healing energy cleanse and uplift my spirit, Grant me the serenity to navigate life's challenges. I offer my sincere gratitude and devotion to you, Obatala, May your wisdom and blessings illuminate my path. I trust in your guidance and surrender to your divine will, Ase! So be it." Prayer
• Stand in front of your altar and light a white candle or incense. • Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. • Visualize Obatala in your mind's eye. • Speak the following words aloud: Obatala, great and powerful, I call upon you today. I come to you in need of your help. I ask that you guide me and protect me. I ask that you give me strength and wisdom. I ask that you help me to overcome [insert your challenge here]. I believe that you are a kind and compassionate god, And I know that you will hear my plea. I offer you this [insert your offering here] as a token of my respect and gratitude. Please, Obatala, hear my plea and grant me your assistance. • Open your eyes and gaze at the candle or incense. • Meditate on your request for a few minutes. • When you are finished, thank Obatala for his presence and let him know that you are open to receiving his help. • You can leave the candle or incense burning for as long as you like. It is important to remember that spells are not always effective. If you do not receive assistance from Obatala, it is important to be patient and persistent. You may need to try the spell again or offer a different type of offering. It is also important to remember that Obatala is a powerful god and should be treated with respect. How to invoke god Obatala
1. Colors: White (purity, peace). 2. Crystals: Selenite (spiritual connection), Clear Quartz (amplification). 3. Herbs: Lavender (calming, healing), White Sage (cleansing, protection). 4. Symbols: Ivory/White Cloth (reverence), Staff (wisdom). 5. Moon Phase: Full Moon (illumination). 6. Element: Air (communication, clarity). 7. Animals: Doves (peace, purity). 8. Tarot Cards: The Hermit (reflection), Justice (balance). 9. Astrological Sign: Libra (balance, justice). 10. Incense: Frankincense (connection, purification), Myrrh (protection, healing). 11. Sacred Waters: Coconut Water (blessings, purity). 12. Metals: Silver (illumination, purity). 13. Sacred Number: Eight (balance, wisdom). 14. Offerings: White flowers (devotion), White candles (illumination, purity). 15. Days of the Week: Thursday (spiritual connection, enlightenment). Correspondence
1. Color: White symbolizes purity, peace, and spiritual connection, and is often associated with Obatala. 2. Staff: Obatala is often depicted holding a staff, which represents authority, guidance, and wisdom. 3. Ivory or White Cloth: Ivory or white cloth is used to represent Obatala and is considered sacred in his worship. It symbolizes purity, reverence, and the divine presence. 4. Doves: Doves symbolize peace, purity, and Obatala's association with calmness and harmony. They are often associated with his energy and presence. 5. Moon: Obatala is sometimes associated with the moon, particularly the full moon. The moon represents illumination, spiritual energy, and the power of Obatala's light. 6. Ancestral Connection: Obatala is considered the father of all Orishas and is closely associated with ancestors and lineage. He is seen as a guide and protector of ancestral wisdom and heritage. 7. Cornstalks: Cornstalks are associated with Obatala as a symbol of fertility, abundance, and sustenance. They represent the bountiful blessings and the nurturing aspects of Obatala's energy. Symbols and associations
8. Snail: The snail is often associated with Obatala, symbolizing patience, slow and steady progress, and the importance of taking one's time in spiritual matters. 9. Peaceful demeanor: Obatala is often depicted with a calm and serene expression, representing his embodiment of peace, tranquility, and wisdom. 10. Mountain: Mountains are associated with Obatala, representing his high status and connection to the heavens. They symbolize strength, stability, and elevation of consciousness. 11. Clouds: Clouds are linked to Obatala, representing his association with the heavens and the divine realm. They symbolize his ethereal nature and spiritual presence. 12. Ankh: The ankh, an ancient Egyptian symbol, is sometimes associated with Obatala. It represents eternal life, spiritual awakening, and the divine essence within all beings. 13. Hand of Fate: Obatala is often associated with the concept of destiny and shaping one's fate. The hand of fate symbolizes his role in shaping and guiding the destinies of individuals. 14. White Daisies: White daisies are sometimes used as an offering to Obatala. They represent purity, innocence, and the beauty of Obatala's presence. 15. Balance: Obatala is associated with balance and justice. The scales of justice or any symbol representing balance can be connected to his energy and principles. Symbols and associations