As part of its broader “Embodied Wisdom” programming, the Center for the Study of World Religions (CSWR) is offering a unique workshop series in winter 2024, titled “Ifa Divination, Pedagogy, and the Cultivation of Wisdom in Modern Settings.” Led by Ayodeji Ogunnaike, Visiting Scholar at the CSWR and Assistant Professor of Afro-Brazilian studies at the University of Virginia, this six-part series will introduce participants to Ifa divination and Yoruba philosophical concepts. Sessions will focus on themes such as embodied wisdom, sacred arts, narrative pedagogy, mnemonics, diversity, and poetic form, offering a comprehensive understanding of this ancient wisdom tradition.
In a recent interview, Ayodeji Ogunnaike shared insights into the workshop's structure and objectives. “We'll start with an understanding of the Yoruba religious cultural world,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of understanding Ifa divination's role and its pedagogical approach. Unlike conventional education, Ifa's teaching method is about forming individuals, focusing on intellectual development and providing access to information. This approach aligns with the Yoruba concept of iwa pẹlẹ, or “good or noble character,” which Ifa aims to help individuals embody and live.
Sessions will be organized through interactive and immersive explorations of Ifa pedagogy, rather than according to a Western post-secondary educational model. “It's really going to be a workshop and not just a class,” Ogunnaike noted, explaining that sessions are designed to expose participants to Ifa pedagogical practices, allowing them to engage with them and later apply concepts independently.
Ogunnaike's personal journey with Ifa deeply influenced his design of the workshop. His experience as an apprentice to a high priest of Ifa in Nigeria profoundly impacted his pedagogical approach. This experience, combined with conversations with Professor Charles Stang, Director of the CSWR, on wisdom traditions and embodying wisdom, played a significant role in shaping the workshop's design.
The workshop will cover various aspects of the Ifa tradition, including sacred narratives, material culture, philosophical terms, and concepts. Participants will engage in reading and interpreting sacred texts used in divination, exploring their poetic and mnemonic qualities. The workshop will also touch upon ritual and the divination process itself.
Discussing intercultural impact and inclusion, Ogunnaike highlighted the flexibility of the Ifa system to adapt to individual needs, making it a valuable and adaptable tool for diverse situations. This approach allows for a personalized experience, where each participant can derive unique insights relevant to their situation. Ogunnaike's approach is tailored to individual needs, drawing from the Ifa tradition's ability to address a wide range of issues and situations.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the workshop, Ogunnaike cited a quote from Professor Wande Abimbola, “Ifa will mend our broken world.” He explained how Ifa uses cosmic order to address and rectify various life situations, from personal to global issues. The workshop aims to provide participants with a roadmap to productively work through their challenges, drawing from Ifa's wisdom. Ogunnaike expressed his hope for participants to approach the workshop with openness and curiosity. His teaching philosophy is to meet people where they are, offering them the tools and insights of the Ifa tradition to improve their lives and the world around them.
Story by Tristan Angieri, MDiv '26