Sixteen Great Poems of Ifa‪́‬

'Sixteen Great Poems of Ifá' is a seminal work that delves into the cultural richness of the Yorùbá people, exploring Ifá, a divination system, and religious thought deeply ingrained in their practices and in the African diaspora. This book, a compilation, and translation by the esteemed Professor Wándé Abímbọ́lá, offers a profound insight into the vibrant oral tradition of Yorùbá culture, viewed through the prism of the Ifá literary corpus.

The Ifá divination system is based on an extensive corpus of verses known as Odù Ifá, which are believed to cover all possible life situations and circumstances. Each Odù contains a series of poems called Ẹsẹ̀ Ifá, which are chanted by the Babaláwo (Ifá priest) during divination rituals. "Sixteen Great Poems of Ifá" selects sixteen of these Odù, each representing one of the principal Odù Ifá that form the foundation of all other derivative Odù.

Professor Abímbọ́lá, a distinguished scholar and practitioner of Ifá, brings his deep understanding of Yorùbá philosophy and linguistics to the translations. Each poem is presented in Yorùbá with an English translation alongside critical interpretations that contextualize the verses' philosophical, ethical, and cultural meanings. This dual presentation allows readers to appreciate the poetic beauty of the original language and gain insights into the practical wisdom and guidance that Ifá offers.

The book begins with an introduction to the Ifá divination system, explaining its historical origins, structure, and role within Yorùbá society. Abímbọ́lá discusses the importance of the Ifá priest in interpreting the verses during divination sessions and how these interpretations guide individuals in making decisions about their personal and communal lives.