Babalawo vs Babalorisa: Why I Believe the Titles Should Be Clearer

I believe there is confusion over the titles Babalawo, Iyanifa, Babalorisa and Iyalorisa in Ifa and Orisa practice. Some practitioners say anyone whose work revolves around Ifa should be called a Babalawo, while a female practitioner should be called an Iyanifa. I do not understand why the equivalent male title is not Babanifa. In my view, Babalawo should refer to a male Ifa practitioner, while Iyalawo should refer to a female practitioner. If Iyanifa is preferred for women, then Babanifa should also be used for men. The naming should be balanced and consistent. I see Babalorisa as different from Babalawo. A Babalorisa works through Orisa consultation and rituals rather than Ifa. Likewise, an Iyalorisa is a female Orisa practitioner. My own approach to ebo and spiritual work as a Babalorisa differs from the Ifa-based methods used by Babalawo practitioners.

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