#obatala

The Great Orisha, king of them all, and the first ruler. The highest, Ọlọrun, tasked Ọbatala with creating the world below. Under visions from Orunmila he was told to gather a gold chain, satchel, and various items that vary based on the version of the tale (a hen, a cat, shells, etc.) He uses the gold chain to descend below where he releases a bird that spreads sand to create beaches, mountains, and valleys, and a palm nut which grows all forests. Ọbatala begins the task of creating all humans from clay, but is drunk on palm wine and creates deformities by accident. As a result, in some variations, his brother Odùduwà takes up the task instead due to his drunkenness leading to an eternal struggle between the two. Sometimes he is aided by a consort, often Yemòwó or sometimes Yemọja. There also existed a mortal Ọbatala , first ruler of the kingdom of Ilé-Ifẹ̀, who feuded with his brother Odùduwà and was deified upon his death.

Pantheon: African Diaspora Religions

Domain or Function: Ruler of all orisha, creator of man, lord of purity, and keeper of wisdom.

Alternate Names: Oriṣanla (The Great Orisha), Ooṣala, Oxalá, Ochala, Orixalá.

Character Traits: A powerful and wise god who leads humanity and exemplifies purity and good traits.

Visual Traits: Usually adorned in flowing robes of pure white, wearing a beaded mask or crown (Ade Obatala). Often carries a staff (Opa Osooro) with bells and dangling ornaments, topped with a white dove.

Symbolism: The color white, doves, snails, Opa Osooro staff, gold chain, shekere gourd, aye instrument, Igba Iwa (calabash of existence).