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).