Orisa Nla Shrine, Ile-Ife

The God of Creativity

Obatala created human beings, he is the first artist in this world.  Obatala used the Ewon to journey from heaven to earth.  Olodumare gave Obatala great Ase to use in the creation of human beings.  Obatala was originally sent to create the world by Olodumare, only he did not make the proper sacrifice.  He was tricked by Esu, got drunk from the Emu and fell asleep on his way to earth.  His brother Oduduwa took over the task when Obatala was incapacitated.  Although Oduduwa took all the materials for creating the earth from Obatala when he was sleeping, he did not take his Ase; which was carefully hidden.  Obatala remained very powerful and important in part because he kept his Ase.  A great war ensued between Obatala and Oduduwa.

Obatala has a true mind, his thoughts are pure.  Obatala wears white to represent his clarity in thought and truthful manner.  Obatala has one wife, Yemoo.  Orunmila initiated Obatala in Irete Ogbe.

Many odu talk about Obatala, they include:

Irosun Meji, Oyeku Ogbe, Eji Ogbe, Okanran Owonrin, Ogunda Meji

Obatala likes to eat: Snail and sheep

Obatala’s taboos are: Emu and Aja