Afa language, used primarily for divination and spiritual consultation in Igbo spirituality, consists of specific terminologies that usually differ from everyday (demotic) Igbo words. Knowing these Afa words and their regular Igbo and English equivalents can provide deeper insight into your cultural and spiritual practices as an Odinani practitioner. In this post, we’ve provided a detailed look at 16 Afa words, their regular Igbo terminologies, and their English meanings.

16 Afa Words With Their Regular Igbo & English Terms

1. Agalị/Aghalị

Ordinary Igbo: Ikenga
English: Ikenga
Explanation: In both Afa and ordinary Igbo, "Ikenga" refers to a symbol of strength, achievement, and success, usually represented by a carved wooden figure.

2. Aka

Ordinary Igbo: Ijem/Njem
English: Journey
Explanation: "Aka" in Afa signifies a journey or a path, similar to "ijem/njem" in regular Igbo, symbolizing one’s process or progression in life or spirituality.

3. Akwụ

Ordinary Igbo: Ihe kwụ otu ebe
English: Something standing still
Explanation: "Akwu" denotes something that is stationary or stable, it symbolizes steadiness or a lack of movement.

4. Atụrụkpa

Ordinary Igbo: Ndi Oyibo/Akwa
English: Europeans/Cloth
Explanation: In Afa, "Atụrụkpa" can refer to Europeans or cloth, symbolizing foreign influences or materials.

5. Ete

Ordinary Igbo: Ihe mbelede
English: Sudden event
Explanation: "Ete" describes an unexpected or sudden occurrence, indicating surprise or abrupt changes.

6. Ijite

Ordinary Igbo: Okpololo ezi
English: Main road
Explanation: "Ijite" signifies the main road, representing a major path or route, usually used in divinations to indicate a significant life direction.

7. Ọbala

Ordinary Igbo: Ihe dị n'ife
English: An unhidden object
Explanation: "Ọbala" refers to something visible or not hidden.

8. Obi/Ogbi

Ordinary Igbo: Ojije/Ọgiga
English: Movement
Explanation: "Obi" or "Ogbi" indicates movement or travel, signifying progress or changes in one's life or spiritual journey.

9. Odii

Ordinary Igbo: Neeli
English: Midnight
Explanation: "Ọdii" represents midnight, a time associated with deep spiritual activities or transitions.

10. Ogele/Ogheli

Ordinary Igbo: Nwaanyị
English: Women
Explanation: "Ogele" or "Ogheli" refers to women, it symbolizes the feminine aspect or female presence in various contexts.

11. Ọkala

Ordinary Igbo: Ihe kpọgala akpọga
English: Astride; something wide
Explanation: "Ọkala" describes something wide or spread out, it can indicate breadth or expansiveness.

12. Ọra

Ordinary Igbo: Ụlọ
English: House
Explanation: "Ọra" signifies a house or home, representing shelter, family, and domestic life.

13. Ose

Ordinary Igbo: Anya
English: Eye
Explanation: "Ose" means eye, symbolizing vision, perception, and divine insight.

14. Otule

Ordinary Igbo: Okwu
English: Speech
Explanation: "Otule" refers to speech or spoken words, it symbolizes communication and expression.

15. Ovu

Ordinary Igbo: Otu ihe
English: One
Explanation: "Ovu" denotes the concept of one or unity, indicating singularity or wholeness.

16. Ụlụlụ

Ordinary Igbo: Ihe kpọdolu akpọdo
English: Hooked
Explanation: "Ụlụlụ" describes something hooked or attached, it symbolizes a strong connection or attachment.

In Conclusion

Knowing and understanding these Afa words and their regular Igbo and English equivalents not only improves one's knowledge of Igbo spirituality but also deepens the appreciation for the intricate language and symbolism within the culture. These words play important roles in divination, rituals, and daily spiritual practices, which illustrate the connection between language, spirituality, and life in Igbo society.