In Igbo spirituality, Afa divination is an insightful and sacred process used to seek clarity and answers about one's life, purpose, and challenges. To truly benefit from this divination mechanism, it is important to be properly prepared before heading to a diviner. One of the most effective ways to do this is by taking time to communicate with your Chi (guiding spirit) and aligning your energies.

Why Preparation is Important

Afa divination is a spiritual dialogue between you, the diviner, and the energies that govern your life—your Chi, spirit guides, and ancestral forces. The clearer your internal energies and the stronger your connection with these forces, the more effective and insightful the divination will be. When you prepare yourself ahead of time, you are essentially informing your spiritual guides and personal energies that you are about to embark on a journey to seek answers. This pre-communication can help to open up pathways for clearer, more direct messages.

Steps to Prepare for Afa Divination

Quiet Reflection and Meditation: Before going for Afa divination, find a quiet space to sit and reflect on your intentions. Clear your mind of everyday distractions and focus on the issues or questions you are seeking clarity on. Meditation is a great tool here—it helps you calm your energy and align with your higher self. Breathe deeply and feel your connection to the universe. This is a time to attune yourself to the spiritual vibrations around you.
Communicate with Your Chi: The most important step is to consciously communicate with your Chi. Speak to your Chi as you would to a close, trusted advisor. You can do this mentally or out loud. Inform your Chi that you are going to seek answers or guidance through Afa divination. Express your concerns, desires, or questions that you want clarity on. This act of pre-communication sets the stage for a smoother divination process, as it signals your readiness to receive guidance from your spiritual network.
Example Prayer to Your Chi: "My Chi, I acknowledge your presence. I am preparing to seek answers and guidance through Afa. I ask that you walk with me, and help me to understand the messages and insights I receive. Guide my thoughts, actions, and heart as I seek clarity on [insert specific issues or desires]. May our connection be strong and clear during this process. Isee."
Set Your Intentions Clearly: Intention is powerful in any spiritual practice. After communicating with your Chi, set clear intentions for what you hope to gain from the divination. It could be about your career, relationships, health, or spiritual path, whatever it is, make sure you know what you’re asking for. Having a focused intention allows the spiritual energies to align with your questions, making it easier for the diviner to interpret the messages.
Fast or Detoxify (Optional): Some people may choose to fast or follow a light diet before Afa divination as a way of purifying their body and spirit. This is not always necessary, but it can help to heighten spiritual sensitivity and focus. Fasting is a way to release physical distractions and tune into the subtle spiritual energies around you.
Be in a Receptive State: On the day of the divination, approach the process with an open mind and heart. Go with the intention to receive—not just answers, but guidance, healing, and understanding. Let go of any preconceived notions or doubts. Trust the process and be ready to accept whatever messages or insights come your way, knowing they come from a place of deep wisdom. Regardless, after the divination is over, use your discretion to determine what resonates with you.

Why Precommunication Improves The Effectiveness Divination

In Igbo spirituality, your Chi and spiritual guides are always present, watching over you and guiding you. When you actively communicate with them before seeking a diviner, you strengthen your connection and make it easier for them to communicate with you during the process. When you approach Afa divination with a prepared spirit, you are more open and ready to receive the wisdom being offered. This can result in clearer, more direct guidance that resonates with your life path.

Moreover, precommunication creates a sense of spiritual accountability. You are letting your spiritual guides know that you are ready to take responsibility for your journey and are seeking their support in doing so. This strengthens the relationship between you and your spiritual forces, making the divination experience more meaningful and effective.

Final Thoughts

Afa divination is a sacred and enlightening process that can offer deep insights into your life and spiritual journey. Preparing for it by communicating with your Chi and aligning your energies beforehand will not only make the process smoother but will also ensure that the messages you receive are clear and tailored to your current path. Remember, the journey begins within. Taking the time to align yourself with your spiritual guides before seeking answers can open the door to a more insightful and transformative experience.

May your next Afa divination be insightful, clear, and deeply aligned with your purpose.