The Ifa tradition is often labeled as evil due to misunderstandings and religious bias, particularly by outsiders who misinterpret its beliefs and practices. In reality, Ifa is a structured spiritual system rooted in reverence for one supreme creative force, Olodumare, with Orishas serving as divine emissaries. Its practices emphasize ethical conduct, balance, and responsibility, not malevolence or corruption.
Updated on January 21, 2026
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Why Do People Believe Ifa Is Evil?
Ifa is a traditional belief system and practice that is often misunderstood. Many people assume that it must be evil because many deities are worshiped in this African traditional religion. However, this is not the case. The Ifa tradition is based on the belief in one Supreme God, Olodumare. It is only through the worship of this Sovereign Force that the other deities may be venerated.
Other deities referred to as Orishas are varied manifestations of this Supreme deity. It is said that there are over 401 Orishas in the Ifa religion, which ultimately means they are innumerable. Each Orisha has unique personality characteristics. They can be thought of in a similar way to angels, spirit guides, and spirits in Abrahamic traditions.
The Orishas are revered through ebo, or sacrificial offerings. Many Orishas represent natural forces, such as wind, fire, water, earth, etc. Others represent attributes such as patience, love, or justice. These forces are appeased to restore balance in the areas they govern.
Again, these same dynamics are outlined in the Old Testament. However, the New Testament scriptures outlaw animal sacrifice, considering it contradictory to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. Therefore, many Christians likewise assume that animal sacrifice within traditions like Ifa is evil, demonic, or meaningless at best.
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Is Ifa a Polytheistic Religion?
Because some people assume that Ifa devotees worship many gods, they also associate it with evil or devil worship since polytheism is forbidden in Abrahamic religions. The Ifa tradition embodies a monotheistic worldview and embraces morality and upright living similar to other religions.
In fact, living according to Ifa principles can be more stringent than following other religious beliefs at times. This is because Ifa devotees regularly work with or appease many deities or spiritual forces.
Sadly, Ifa is misunderstood because of this dynamic. This is primarily because certain elements oppose Abrahamic teachings, such as offerings to deities. In particular, animal sacrifice receives more attention than its share warrants. Though it is part of the Ifa corpus, animal sacrifice is not something to be feared or ostracized. As indicated, this process is designed to restore, rather than disrupt, balance.
Why Are Animals Sacrificed in Ifa?
Sacrifices and offerings are made to the Orishas to appease them so that they can assist us along our journey. Natural elements from the earth, such as herbs, fruits, plants, etc., constitute many Orisha offerings. Adherents exchange offerings for favors and blessings from the Orishas.
Though animal sacrifice is part of this system, this process is performed in a very sacred way, similar to the Levitical ordinances in the Bible. Devotees most often consume these offerings at the conclusion of a ritual or ceremony. This is no different than the slaughter and consumption of animals for daily meals.
These are just some of the many complexities involved in the Ifa system that have caused much confusion about its beliefs and practices. The Ifa tradition is designed to help people connect with the divine on a deeper level.
It teaches people about their destiny, their place in the world, and how they can live in harmony with divine order. Ifa can bring peace and blessings to those who follow its moral codes and glean from its ancient wisdom.
Does Ifa Teach Moral Character?
Though sacrifices and offerings are a vital part of the practice, Ifa integrates principles of morality and ethics into all of its doctrines. Ifa teaches the concept of living a life of good moral character. Ifa adherents believe that by living a life of gentle character, one will be able to achieve success in all areas of their life.
The Ifa tradition also teaches the importance of family and community. By working together, families and communities can overcome many obstacles. The tradition is a belief system based on love, respect, and peace.
Ifa is much like Christianity, Islam, and other faiths, with well-established moral codes that embody the “do no harm” principle. In fact, Ifa can be more strict than some religions because there are many taboos you must follow in this system.
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Why Does Ifa Have Taboos?
A taboo is something that an adherent must not do to avoid corruption or imbalance. There are various taboos associated with the Ifa religion. For example, some devotees must not eat the meat of a dog.
Other taboos prohibit Ifa practitioners from wearing certain colors with specific energy frequencies. Some colors can spark unfavorable emotions such as anger, aggression, frustration, and depression. Therefore, Ifa may consider this taboo for these individuals. In this way, life can be very rigid for an Ifa devotee or initiate.
There are many different taboos associated with the Ifa religion. And it is essential that you know what they are before you decide to follow this system. These taboos help practitioners live stronger, happier lives. They are in no way sinister or immoral. Instead, they help maintain a state of purity and balance.
So, Is the Ifa Tradition Evil?
Ifa is a traditional belief system and practice that can bring blessings to those who follow it. The Ifa tradition is not evil. Instead, it is a religion that seeks to bring balance and harmony into the world. It is a practice that can help you connect with the divine and achieve success in all areas of your life.
The Ifa religion is not for everyone, but if you are looking for a belief system that can help you connect with the divine in a profound way, this may be the right practice for you. Ifa provides peace, harmony, and balance to those willing to follow the teachings of this beloved and growing African traditional religion. If you’re just starting your Ifá journey or exploring the tradition for the first time, continue with Asanee 44’s Beginner’s Guide to Ifá Concepts and Beliefs.
Want more guidance on starting your Ifá journey?
To discover more about beginning your Ifá practice, explore our resource library:
- How to Start Practicing Ifá
- How Do You Start Working with the Orisha?
- Beginner’s Guide to Ifá Concepts and Beliefs
- Starting Your Ifá Journey Series
Written by Dr. Asanee Brogan, founder of Asanee 44, a spiritual brand rooted in Ifá wisdom. Dr. Asanee Brogan is an Ori Alignment Coach, Ifá Educator, and author. She guides seekers in starting their Ifá journey, learning about Ifá divination, uncovering Odu wisdom, and aligning with their Ori.
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