<i>Àkọse ̣̀jayé</i>: Trend and Status in Yorùbá Communities of South Western Nigeria.

Abstract

Our society is in disarray today; things are not working according to plan. Different members of the society do not realize their ambitions or expectations principally because, the modern people have neglected consulting Ifá for guidance. Parents especially no longer consult for the Àkọsẹ̀jayé of their children. This study therefore investigates the importance of Àkọsẹ̀jayé/consulting Ifá with a view to understanding its relevance in traditional Yoruba society and how it can still be used in this contemporary society. This study adopted cultural adaptation theory, which permeates change and individual diversity as theoretical framework. A total numbers of 20 Babaláwo and 40 people comprising fifteen adult males, fifteen adult females and ten youths, five males and five females were interviewed to gather their views on Àkọsẹ̀jayé. The study shown a unanimous agreement by respondent Babaláwo- Ifá priests and twenty seven of the people interviewed that destiny may be cut short as a result of inability to keep to instructions given while Àkọsẹ̀jayé is being done. This could be on the type of food, colour and vocations to avoid. Also in ability to keep to taboos stated, or family traditions. However, considering many benefits that can be derived from the exercise, which included balanced life style devoid of sickness and pains, every other pit falls can still be avoided.

Keywords: Àkọsẹ̀jayé, Yorùbá, Ifá priest, culture, destiny.