Orunla oil

Orunla was present when every soul chose its destiny. That is why his priests are consulted to read it.

Origin & Traditional Use

Orunla, also called Orunmila or Orula, is the orisha of wisdom and of the Ifá divination system, served by priests called babalawos. In Cuba his colours are green and yellow, and he is linked with Saint Francis of Assisi. The oil is a modern devotional blend.

Uses by Tradition

Santería & Lucumí

• Before readings: anoint a candle before consulting a babalawo or diloggun reader.
• Wisdom: dress a green and yellow candle when facing a hard choice.
• Ifá divination is the work of babalawos; lay devotees use the oil for candles and prayer.

Folk Catholicism & Spiritism

• Saint Francis of Assisi: dress a candle before his image on 4 October.
• Guidance: anoint the brow before prayer for direction.

A Simple Working

• Set a green and yellow candle before an image of Orunla or Saint Francis.
• Anoint it with Orunla oil.
• Write your question on a slip of paper.
• Light the candle and ask Orunla for guidance.
• Let it burn out.
• Keep the paper and note any answer that comes.

Pairs Well With

• A green and yellow candle: his colours.
• Cascarilla: for marking.
• Elegua oil: to open the road first.
• A notebook: to record guidance.

Lore & History

In Yoruba lore Orunmila is the witness of destiny, present when each soul chooses its fate before birth. Ifá divination uses sacred palm nuts called ikin and a divining chain called the opele (ekuele in Cuba), and its body of verses is organised into 256 signs called odu, memorised by babalawos over years of training.

What You Receive

Orunla oil, available in 2 dram, 1 oz and 16 oz sizes.