HISTORY OF OBATALA

Who Is Obatala?

Obatala is the great Orisha, molder of humankind, and father and mother of all the Orishas. He governs the head and teaches through thought — the concepts formed in our minds are shaped through our interaction with every living being on this earth.

Obatala is sought at the highest point of the mountain, in the snow that covers its peak, appearing as the wise elder of the hills. He offers justice, renewal, and new beginnings. His children include those born albino, and those born with physical or mental disabilities.

Obatala favors dark, quiet places — no light is permitted in his domain, which is why his altar or vessel is traditionally kept covered with cloth.

Origins and Nature

There are 16 caminos of Obatala, corresponding to the 16 Orishas and letters of the Diloggún and Ifá. Obatala is understood as one being expressed through many paths — both male (Obatalá) and female (Obanlá/Iyalá) — all one, without excluding even the fiercest and most combative among them, Ayagguna.

Oddúa, carrying 16 white beads and 8 scarlet beads on his collar, is considered the same as Olofi and the root from which the other caminos of Obatala descend. His wife is Odduaremu, syncretized as Santa Ana.

All caminos of Obatala are exceptionally refined, delicate, and sensitive — anything unclean offends them. Their objects and symbols are traditionally wrapped in cotton.

Sign, Day, and Colors

Obatala's color is white. His animals include goat, dove, guinea fowl, and white hen. Alcoholic beverages, crab, and beans are among his prohibitions.

Attributes and Tools

Obatala is represented by a white soup tureen (sopera) holding four otá stones, adorned with white beaded necklaces. He is owner of silver and white metals, wears a crown with parrot feathers, and carries the opa — a ceremonial staff — along with a silver hand wielding a scepter. Obatala is also owner of the Iroko tree (the Ceiba), sacred and central to many ceremonies. Cascarilla is closely associated with Obatala's purity and is used throughout his ceremonies.

Necklaces and Clothing

Obatala's necklace is white, with accent beads specific to each camino woven in — red for Ayagguna, Ochagriñan, and Ochalufón; purple for Oba Moró; ivory or mother-of-pearl for Ochanlá. He is always dressed in white, though warrior caminos may wear a red sash, and Oba Moró is sometimes dressed in purple, echoing depictions of Jesus of Nazareth.

Honor Obatala

Whether you're beginning your path with Obatala or deepening a lifelong devotion, Nelstar Services has provided authentic Santeria and Lucumı́ supplies since 2003. Explore Orisha crowns, soperas, and find full guidance in our Orisha Center.