Obara and his omolúos: meaning of the 16 combinations
Obara, called Òbàrà in Yoruba nomenclature, is one of the 16 principal signs of Ifá. Its foundation relates to authority, the power of the word, recognition, and the balance necessary to exercise a position correctly. When combined with itself, it forms Obara Meyi; when combined with the other principal odu, it gives rise to the remaining signs of its family.
The 16 odu of the Obara family
The Obara family comprises one main sign, Obara Meyi, and the fifteen Amúlù Odù or omolúos that are formed when Obara appears combined with each of the other main odù. Each configuration develops particular teachings about authority, character, relationships, prosperity, and the consequences of decisions.
Obara Meji
Òbàrà Méjì · Ojú Odù · Odù no. 7
It represents duality and the balance between two forces of authority, symbolized by two crowns and two kings. It can produce uncertainty and suspense, thus teaching us not to make hasty decisions when there are conflicting interests or positions.
Obara Bogbe
Òbàrà Ogbè · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 107
It may convey respect, power, and a high position. However, it warns that recognition does not protect those who ignore the guidelines received, so all authority must be sustained through responsibility and compliance.
Obara Yekun
Òbàrà Òyèkú · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 108
It speaks of a reformer capable of contributing to the improvement of their environment. It also warns against insubordination at home or at work and relationships dominated by the imposition of one party.
Obara Iwori
Òbàrà Ìwòrì · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 109
It teaches that greatness is achieved by passing through different favorable and adverse stages. It highlights intuition as protection, but warns that bad company, vices, and disobedience can lead a person astray.
Obara Dila
Òbàrà Òdí · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 110
It portrays a life exposed to rapid transitions and changes between very different situations. Stability depends on maintaining personal equilibrium, acting with foresight, and not letting circumstances continually alter one's behavior.
Obara Koso
Òbàrà Ìròsùn · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 111
It speaks of the king in need and reminds us that even those in high positions can experience hardship. It warns of theft and family losses, urging humility, vigilance, and adherence to the instructions received.
Obará Ojuani
Òbàrà Òwónrín · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 112
It relates to prolonged processes, exile, and situations marked by deceit or betrayal. Although it holds the potential for prosperity, it teaches that success comes through calmness, perseverance, and the ability to act without arrogance.
obara kana
Òbàrà Òkànràn · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 113
It teaches that destiny can be diverted when one acts impulsively, capriciously, or disobediently. Serenity, good character, and choosing the right companions allow one to overcome trials and achieve honor and respect.
Obara Ogunda
Òbàrà Ògúndá · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 114
It highlights the need to repair reputation in order to regain momentum. When businesses or projects lose momentum, it recommends addressing the root causes of the damage and acting promptly to prevent further losses.
Obara Sa
Òbàrà Òsá · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 115
It warns of thefts or problems that may arise within the home itself. It also speaks of restlessness, lack of sleep, and family situations that require attention, urging people not to ignore signs that could worsen over time.
Obara Ka
Òbàrà Ìká · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 116
It emphasizes the importance of fidelity and respect within family, religious, and social relationships. It warns that betrayal, lack of consideration, and broken promises can destroy important bonds.
Obara Otrupan
Òbàrà Òtúrúpòn · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 117
It presents evidence related to family, lineage, and personal destiny. It teaches that protecting the home and children requires responsibility, foresight, and fulfilling the obligations prescribed by Ifá.
obara otura
Òbàrà Òtúrá · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 118
It speaks of respect within the home and in business, as well as of adversities that can harden one's character. It advises against acting rashly, as calm and patience allow for progress and the receipt of favorable news.
obara irete
Òbàrà Ìrètè · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 119
It heralds possibilities for success, stability, and favorable changes in work or business. To preserve these opportunities, it demands sincerity, humility, and consistent conduct, preventing selfishness or stubbornness from causing disappointment.
obarashe
Òbàrà Òsé · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 120
It contains teachings on mastering forces that can be difficult to control. It especially warns against envy, deceit, gossip, and betrayal, recommending discretion toward those who conceal their true intentions.
obara fun
Òbàrà Òfún · Amúlù Odù · Odù no. 121
It may herald significant financial development, a new job, or a business opportunity. However, it calls for caution regarding offers, food, or attention from malicious individuals, lest this progress be compromised.
Obara among the 16 main signs of Ifá
Obara occupies the seventh place among the 16 principal odu, also called major signs of Ifá or Oju Odu. In many houses of the Afro-Cuban tradition, this set is known as the 16 Meyi of Ifá. These principal signs serve as the foundation for ordering the 256 Ifa signs.
When Obara appears in both positions, it forms Obara Meyi, whose traditional name is Òbàrà Méjì. The word Méjì It means “two” or “double,” so this configuration represents the complete manifestation of Obara and is classified as a main sign, not as an omolúo.
The omolúos or Amúlù Odù of Obara
Amúlù Odù are the configurations that result from combining two different main odù. In the Afro-Cuban tradition, they are also called omolúos. Obara Bogbe, Obara Yekun, Obara Iwori, and the other combined signs of this family belong to this category.
Obara remains the first component and provides the general foundation of the family. The second odu modifies its expression and determines whether the teaching is directed towards authority, character, relationships, prosperity, recognition, or the consequences of a decision.
What does Obara represent in Ifá?
Obara relates to authority, expression, and the responsibility that accompanies recognition. Its foundation shows that possessing power, knowledge, or persuasive ability does not, in itself, guarantee a stable position.
Words take on special importance within this family. They can be used to guide, reform, and build agreements, but they can also cause disputes, deception, or losses when used imprudently.
Obara also teaches that authority must maintain balance. The two crowns of Obara Meyi remind us that different positions, interests, or people in power may exist, and that none should act as if they are above all others.
How to interpret the signs of Obara
In the signs of this family, Obara brings the principles of authority, expression, recognition, and responsibility. The second main odu determines how these foundations manifest and toward which aspect of life the guidance is directed.
Obara Bogbe can announce respect and power; Obara Iwori teaches that greatness is obtained after going through different stages; Obara Kana warns about the consequences of impulsiveness; while Obara Irete points to opportunities for stability and progress.
These brief meanings serve as an introduction to each combination. A complete study requires consulting its proverbs, patakís, advice, prohibitions, works, and other elements contained in the individual treatise.
The other families of the main Ifá signs
Obara is part of a structure composed of sixteen families. Each one brings together a main sign and its fifteen corresponding combinations or omolúos.
