In the Yoruba traditional belief, Ori, is one of the most important deities, subject only to the supreme being. Ori is the abode of each choice of fulfillment as individuals strive to achieve their destiny. It is a person’s guide to success and great achievements in this world and in heaven. A person without a head (not the physical head) is a person without direction. Consequently, isiri (inspiration) is an appeasement of a person’s Ori, so that it would reveal to them a new source of strength or a better course of action.
However, oriki is also a type of Yoruba literary genre that is used for the purpose of inspiration. In the Yoruba customs, people who have distinguished themselves in some way are acknowledged not just by name but also according to a description of their achievements and family lineage, which are expressed their oriki, a poetry of highly personal praise songs.
The praise poetry oriki is more effective than the name form, although it requires specialized skill and learning to learn, memorize, and be able to chant the oriki of individuals and families. In fact, there are people who have this as their profession. Generally, older people and women are more versed in praise poetry. However, the name version of oriki is used more on a daily basis.
Below is an extract from Yoruba praise poetry on Ori:
Ori, the actor, the stalwart divinity
One who guides one to wealth, guides one to riches.
Ori, the beloved, governor of all the divnities.
Ori, who takes one to the good place.
Ori, behold the good place and take me there.
Feet, behold the good place and accompany me thereto.
There is no divinity like Ori,
One's Ori is one's providence.
