Reclaiming Roots: The Transformative Power of Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase in African American Spirituality

Introduction

For African Americans, reconnecting with Yorùbá spirituality is more than a spiritual pursuit—it’s an act of reclamation, healing, and empowerment. It bridges the gap between ancestral wisdom and the challenges of contemporary life. Central to this journey are two key concepts: Iwa Pele (ìwà pẹ̀lẹ̀, good character) and Ofo Ase (ọ̀fọ̀ àṣẹ, the power of the spoken word). These principles, deeply rooted in Yorùbá cosmology, offer tools to navigate life’s complexities while honoring the legacy of ancestors.

In this blog, we explore the synergy between Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase, using Yorùbá proverbs (owé) to illustrate their importance, alongside practical steps to incorporate them into your spiritual practice.

The Essence of Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase

• Iwa Pele is the foundation of a balanced and fulfilling life. It emphasizes integrity, humility, and compassion as key virtues that align individuals with their destiny (ayanmo).

• Ofo Ase reflects the creative and transformative power of words. In Yorùbá belief, spoken words are not merely sounds—they are carriers of àṣẹ, the divine energy that brings intentions into reality.

Together, these principles remind us that character shapes destiny and that our words can either build or destroy.

Owé Yorùbá:

“Iwa l’ẹwa, bi eniyan o ba ni iwa, ohun gbogbo tán.”

(Character is beauty; without good character, all is lost.)

1. Iwa Pele: Building a Life Rooted in Virtue

The Yorùbá people regard iwa (character) as the ultimate measure of a person. To live with Iwa Pele is to embody kindness, patience, and responsibility toward oneself and others. This concept is particularly transformative for African Americans navigating generational trauma and systemic challenges.

Actionable Steps

• Daily Reflection: Before bed, ask yourself: “Did I act with integrity today? How can I do better tomorrow?”

• Ritual of Grounding: Sit quietly each morning, holding an item representing your ancestors (e.g., a family heirloom). Say: “I honor your legacy by walking in truth and love.”

Owé Yorùbá:

“Bí a bá dára bí odò, adáwọ́ ń bẹ láàrin ẹni àìdára.”

(If we are as good as a river, our hands remain clean among the wicked.)

2. Ofo Ase: Manifesting Through Words

Words are sacred in Yorùbá culture. Through Ofo Ase, one can invoke blessings, set intentions, or even shift the course of events. For African Americans, reclaiming the power of speech is a way to counter narratives of disempowerment and assert sovereignty over their lives.

Actionable Steps

• Morning Affirmations: Begin each day with affirmations like:

“Àṣẹ ẹmi mi, mo nṣe rere. Àṣẹ ẹni rere, gbogbo àyé ṣe fún mi.”

(With the àṣẹ of my spirit, I do good. With the àṣẹ of goodness, the world supports me.)

• Community Building: Speak words of encouragement to uplift those around you. Example: “Your journey is valid. You are loved, and you belong.”

Owé Yorùbá:

“Ọ̀rọ̀ jẹ́ àdàbà; tí ó bá já mọ ilé aláìlóore, ó ń pa dà bọ̀.”

(Words are like doves; when spoken to an unkind home, they return to the sender.)

3. The Role of Devotion and Ritual

Devotion ties Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase together. Rituals provide a structured way to express gratitude, seek guidance, and align with ancestral energies. This is especially healing for African Americans reclaiming spirituality after centuries of disconnection.

Building a Devotional Practice

1. Create an Altar: Include elements like candles, water, and images of ancestors.

2. Daily Offerings: Pour libations while saying:

“Mo fi omi yi bọ ẹsẹ baba mi. Ẹ jọ, ẹ dari mi, ẹ tún mi ṣe.”

(I offer this water to honor my ancestors. Please guide me and renew my spirit.)

3. Song and Prayer: Incorporate Yorùbá songs like:

“Ọba tó jẹ́jé tí kò se èké; Ọlọ́run, ẹ yin òun.”

(The King who reigns truthfully and never deceives; God, we praise You.)

Owé Yorùbá:

“Ẹni tó gbàgbé ẹsẹ́, kò ní rí àtẹ̀lẹwọ̀ rẹ̀ mú.”

(The one who forgets their roots will struggle to grasp their own destiny.)

Why Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase Matter Today

African Americans face unique challenges shaped by historical and systemic forces. Embracing Iwa Pele fosters resilience and ethical leadership, while Ofo Ase empowers individuals to reclaim their narrative and create positive change. Together, these principles provide tools for healing and transformation in both personal and communal spheres.

Owé Yorùbá:

“Ẹni tí ó fi ọwọ́ òdínkí ṣe fún ọ, fi ọwọ́ pátápátá ṣe fún un.”

(The one who blesses you with little, bless them abundantly in return.)

Conclusion: Walking the Path with Purpose

Reconnecting with Yorùbá spirituality through Iwa Pele and Ofo Ase is not merely about ritual—it’s about reclaiming power, healing wounds, and honoring the wisdom of your ancestors. Every time you act with good character and speak with intention, you contribute to a legacy of resilience and hope.

Final Owé Yorùbá:

“Igi kan kò lè dá igbó ṣe.”

(One tree cannot make a forest.)

Lean on your community, ancestors, and the Òrìṣà as you walk this path.

Àṣẹ, Àṣẹ, Àṣẹ o!

May your journey inspire generations to come.