5 Things to Know Before You Wear Ilekes

Ilekes, also spelled as elekes, serve as meaningful spiritual tools within the Ifá tradition. Whether you are selecting your first set or caring for the beads you already have, it is vital to understand their purpose and proper handling. This guide explains what to know before wearing consecrated beads, so you treat them with respect and honor.

Updated on November 28, 2025

Understanding Ilekes in the Ifá Tradition

Ileke beads aren’t just decorative jewelry. They maintain deep purpose, protection, and power. Whether you’re new to the Ifá tradition or simply drawn to these sacred items, there are a few things you need to understand before you wear them.

Here is a list of five important elements every wearer should be aware of.

1. They’re Not Sacred Until They’re Consecrated

You can buy ilekes online or in stores, but that doesn’t automatically make them spiritually activated. Ilekes only become sacred when they’re ritually consecrated through a process involving herbs, invocations, sacrifices, and offerings aligned with a specific Orisha in the Ifá tradition.

“They’re not consecrated from the door. They’re just beads until they go through the ritual.” ~ Dr. Asanee

During the consecration process, specific materials are selected for each Orisha. The beads are bathed in sacred herbs, prayers are spoken over them, and the energy of the Orisha is called into the beads through incantations and ritual procedures.

This process transforms a decorative item into a potent device known as an ide in Yoruba. Without it, wearing the beads is no different than wearing a necklace from a fashion boutique.

2. You Don’t Need Initiation to Get Them

Ifá initiation isn’t a requirement to receive consecrated ilekes. Many people choose to wear them as a first step toward a deeper connection with a specific Orisha. It’s also a helpful option for those not ready to maintain an Orisha pot.

“I often recommend them for Ifá beginners, especially those not ready to maintain a pot or shrine.” ~ Dr. Asanee

For example, Ogun’s pot requires iron tools and other offerings, which might not be ideal for someone still learning the basics. Wearing ilekes connected with Ogun offers a safer and more manageable way to align with his energy.

3. They’re Not Just for the Neck or Wrist

While necklaces and bracelets are common, ilekes can also be worn as anklets or waist beads. The key is to keep them close to your body. Some wear different ones depending on the energy they want to align with that day. For instance, they may wear Oshun’s ide for beauty and attraction, or Ogun’s blessed beads for protection and courage.

You might wear Esu’s red and black beads when navigating a tough decision or entering unfamiliar territory. On the other hand, if you’re attending a social event or business meeting, beads linked to Egbe Orun or Aje can help bring harmony and wisdom to the situation.

These tools allow you to align with powerful energy that can assist you in many ways.

4. You Can Wear Them for Fashion, With Limits

If the beads haven’t been consecrated, they’re simply jewelry. You can wear them for style as long as you’re not mocking or misrepresenting the tradition. But once they’ve been ritually prepared, they must be treated with care.

Care and consideration for blessed ilekes includes:

• Avoiding sex while wearing consecrated beads
• Not bathing with them or submerging them in water
• Storing them in a safe, respectful place when not in use

Submerging ide in water for prolonged periods can dilute their energy or wear down the thread, especially if they’re frequently soaked. Similarly, engaging in intimate activities while wearing them can mix your energy with another person’s, which is something that’s strongly discouraged. And while a friend may admire your beads, they shouldn’t try them on or wear them if they’ve been consecrated specifically for you.

5. When They Break, It Might Mean Something

Sometimes beads break due to poor construction or natural wear and tear. But other times, it’s a sign, a warning, or a protective shield absorbing negative energy meant for you. Either way, don’t throw them away.

“Check with your Ifá priest or priestess before discarding broken beads. You may need to take spiritual action.” ~ Dr. Asanee

If your beads snap after a stressful encounter or during a public event, it may not be random. It could signal a need for cleansing, a warning, or even a form of protection that has served its purpose. If you’re unsure, your Babalawo can help you determine whether to repair, retire, or replace them.

How to Choose the Right Orisha for Your Ilekes

If you’re not yet initiated or you’re just starting your journey, one of the biggest questions is: how do you know which Orisha to choose for your first set of ilekes? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are a few ways to approach it.

Begin with Ifá divination under the guidance of a trusted priest or priestess. They can identify which Orisha is walking with you, influencing your path, or calling for your attention. This gives you confirmation and direction before you invest in consecrated ilekes.

Another approach is to examine what’s already showing up in your life. Are you constantly facing battles and feel drawn to strength and perseverance? You may be feeling Ogun.

Do you find yourself drawn to water, harmony, and beauty? That might be Oshun speaking. Signs often come through dreams, repeated symbols, or even unexpected feelings during prayer or meditation.

Above all, listen to your intuition. If you feel a pull toward a particular energy, that’s worth exploring. And remember that you don’t have to connect with every Orisha at once. Start with the one that resonates most deeply with where you are in your journey right now.

How Ilekes Support Your Path

Wearing ilekes or elekes is a personal commitment that calls for awareness and respect. These beads serve as a bridge between you and the Orisha energies you are honoring, which is why proper handling matters. When you understand how they are prepared, what they represent, and how they should be treated, you protect both yourself.

As your connection deepens, you will start to notice how the Orisha’s embodied essence in these sacred devices influences your choices, outlook, and how you carry yourself. Treat them as a partner in your journey rather than an accessory, and they will support you in meaningful ways.

When you are ready to work with the divine essence of the Orishas through sacred Ifá technology, explore our Blessed Ilekes collection at Asanee 44. Each set is consecrated through verified lineage-based ritual protocols in Nigeria, giving you access to authentic ritual tools you can trust.

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