Cowrie shells are sacred to Yemaya, orisha of the ocean. Her priestesses throw the shells onto the blue-and-white cloth to see what they will say.
Alafia -- four mouths. The answer is yes, with blessings; but Alafia can be overzealous, so throw again to confirm with Alafia, Ejife, or Etawa working up to either.
Ejife -- three mouths. The answer is yes, and the seeker walks in balance: challenged yet victorious, giving and taking.
Etawa -- two mouths. The answer is maybe, indeterminate; ask more questions to clarify the seeker's intent. But if the two mouths open again, that is Etawa-Meji: Do not ask what you already know.
Okana -- one mouth. The answer is no; forces work against the seeker, but diligent effort may bring change for the better. A single spark shines in the shadows.
Oyekun -- no mouths. The answer is no, and the seeker walks in darkness, out of balance with Spirit and self.
Anyone can put an ear to a seashell and hear the ocean, but only one wise in the ways of orisha can make the shells speak sense.
* * * Above is a poetic description of Obi, a form of divination traditionally done with cowrie shells or coconuts. It comes from the Yoruban tribe in Africa and is practiced today among various Afro-Caribbean traditions.
This poem was written as part of the Poetry Fishbowl project and sponsored by a patron for publication in The Wordsmith's Forge.