Eriwo Ya,
The International Congress for Ifa and Orisa Spirituality (ICIOS) proudly presents the 10th Anniversary of “Esu Is Not Satan” – 2024 at the New African Shrine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. In a recent Facebook post, the Founder of Esu is Not Satan Day, Dr. Oluwo Nla Solagbade Poopola, wrote, “Because of the popularity of the event, all interested people are hereby advised to celebrate the year anniversary in the capital of various states.”
Esu Is Not Satan seeks to celebrate the rich cultural and spiritual significance of Esu in Ifa & Orisa Spirituality, addressing misconceptions and highlighting his vital role as a messenger and intermediary in African traditional spirituality. Join us for an enlightening experience featuring speakers, drummers, cultural performances, and interactive discussions on the importance of understanding Esu’s true essence within Ifa & Orisa Spirituality.
In many African cultures, especially in parts of West Africa, Esu is a deity in Ifa & Orisa Spirituality, and is not associated with Satan. He is considered a messenger and an intermediary between humans and Olodumare. He is a powerful, complex figure who represents truth, balance, and harmony, but he is not evil or satanic. In the Ifa & Orisa Spiritual Tradition, Esu plays a key role in facilitating communications on all levels of human interactions. His presence and actions are symbolic of life’s dualities—good and bad, right and wrong—and he challenges individuals to make choices and learn from them.
The association between Esu and Satan is a result of misunderstandings or misinterpretations, particularly by those outside the culture or by colonial and Christian perspectives that demonized indigenous African spirituality. In contrast to the Christian view of Satan as a purely evil force, Esu’s role is more about balance and choices, not malevolent evil.
On December 24th in Yoruba land, and across the Diaspora, ICIOS and associated temples will celebrate Esu is Not Satan Day to give homage, respect, and honor to Esu.
Esu is Not Satan, Esu is Esu!
Aboru Aboye Abosise!
Iya Ifayomi April
International Welfare Officer, ICIOS