What Is Isefa – The Hand of Ifa?
Isefa, or receiving the Hand of Ifa, is a sacred ceremony in the Ifa/Orisa tradition. It deepens your connection with your personal Ifa and inner head (Ori inu), helping you walk your path with clarity, spiritual protection, and alignment.
Why is it called the “Hand” of Ifa?
The term “Hand of Ifa” refers to receiving a complete and consecrated set of Ikin Ifa (sacred palm nuts), which serve as your personal Ifa. This is often seen as the “first hand,” with full initiation (Itefa) representing the second and subsequent stages.
Other names include Awofakan, Kofa, Ikofa, or Mano de Orula. Our focus here is on the traditional West African lineage.
How Long Does Isefa Take?
The Isefa ceremony can span 1 to 3 days, depending on the temple or lineage. A typical 3-day process includes:
Day 1: Spiritual Preparation
- Honor the ancestors
- Feed and propitiate Esu
- Venerate Egbe (spiritual companions)
- Cleanse the Ori with a ritual called Ori Bibo
- Use of spiritual soap or herbal baths
- Consecration of your Ikin Ifa
Day 2: Rest & Orientation
- Rest and spiritual reflection
- Introduction to basic divination tools (e.g., Obi)
Day 3: Your Personal Odu
- Divination of your personal Odu (Ifa signature)
- You receive your Eleke (necklace) and Ide (bracelet) in Ifa colors
- Guidance is given based on your Odu
Can Isefa Be Done Remotely?
Yes. The Hand of Ifa can be performed remotely. With your permission, an experienced priest performs the rituals and ships your consecrated Ikin to your location. Instructions and spiritual support are provided via video and WhatsApp.
Is Isefa Only for Future Priests?
No. Many receive Isefa solely to connect with their destiny and spiritual path. It is a powerful initiation whether or not you continue toward Itefa or priesthood.
What About Esentaye for Children?
Esentaye is a similar ritual performed for infants, usually within their first week of life. It reveals the child’s spiritual imprint and guidance for early life decisions.
Service Cost
Total Price: $2,500 USD
Includes full consecration, Ifa set, guidance, and WhatsApp Us shipping (for remote initiates).
Ready to Begin?
If you feel called to Ifa, or have been waiting for the right time to begin your spiritual journey, this is your invitation. The Hand of Ifa will help you walk in alignment with divine guidance.
“We have guided over 400 people into their first step with Isefa. This sacred ritual has changed lives across the world.”
Tags:
Isefa, Hand of Ifa, Ifa initiation, Ikin Ifa, Itefa, Ifa ritual, Esentaye, Ifa ceremony, remote Ifa initiation, Ifa divination, Orisa, Babalawo, Iyanifa, spiritual journey, Ifa priesthood, Odu Ifa, Ifa tradition, Ifa guidance