Imoye: A Definition of the Ifa Tradition

by Baba Ifa Karade, Baba Karabe

Clearly and methodically, Baba Ifa Karade renders an outstanding depth of insight into the Ifa tradition. Beginning with its "Genesis" and progressing to the religious traditions and practices, Mr. Karade states "It is important for the devotees of the yoruba faith to explore the origins of the Yoruba in both historical and cultural dimensions in addition to studying the structure of the Ifa philosophy and religious culture. By studying and contemplating upon the vast richness of the tradition, devotees are also less likely to rest upon the "Occult-like" levels and rise to the plateau of realizing Ifa as a path to inner enlightment and divine reflection. This literary work represents a courageous step in broadening and elaborating on previously held concepts by some devotees and non-devotees alike that rested upon cultural imitations, while gaining no understanding of the ultimate purpose and directives of the deepness of the African ancestral thought, behavior and concepts of the world at large and divine realms. This book clearly places Baba Ifa Karade among the uninhibited, who would elevate the philosophy and directives of the Ifa tradition.

128 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1999

Reviews

[RavenclawRianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book. Very engaging. I stand by my assessment that if I'd learned about some African traditional religions, I probably wouldn't be an atheist. I end with a quote that sums up the book:
"The parents of African generations to come must examine the ancestral wisdom which states that: "Children who have no knowledge or interest in where they have come from are seemingly less apt to feel that they are members of a global reality and are of universal importance. And, that without divinities that reflect their physical and cultural bearing, it becomes even more difficult to aspire to the heights of the creator in respect to goodness and creativity."