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Years ago, I introduced Eshu-Elegua as the guardian of the crossroads, divine messenger, and trickster. This time, we’re going deeper. In Encountering Eshu Again, we explore Eshu through three of his most important functions: Mediator, Divine Enforcer, and Trickster. Through traditional stories and the writings of respected authors and practitioners, we examine Eshu’s role in communication between Spirit and humanity, spiritual justice and consequence, disruption, humility, sacrifice, and the limitations of human perception. We’ll also look at the complexity of Eshu’s identity, his many names, his relationships with other Orisha, and why reducing him to either a mischievous trickster or the African equivalent of the Christian Devil completely misses his place within Yoruba cosmology. Stories discussed include Eshu mediating humanity’s request for inequality, enforcing the consequences of ignored spiritual instruction, and even becoming caught by the rules of his own clever plan. This isn’t simply another introduction to Eshu. We’re encountering him again—with more context, more stories, and a deeper understanding of what happens when we meet the Orisha standing at the crossroads. Fatunmbi, Fa’lokun.Ebora: The Metaphysical Foundations of Ifa, Book 2.See especially pp. 29–30 for discussion of Eshu as mediator between Spirit and humanity, Divine Enforcer in matters of spiritual justice, and Divine Trickster. Cuoco, Alex.African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities.See especially pp. 400–401 for background on Eshu, his names, characteristics, relationships, functions, and praise descriptions. Cuoco, Alex.Tales of Eshu: Yoruba Divine Messenger and Trickster Orisha.Source for several of the traditional narratives retold and discussed in this episode, including stories illustrating Eshu’s roles as mediator, enforcer, and trickster. Additional Note:Orisha traditions are living traditions with regional, lineage, and diasporic differences. Names such as Eshu, Elegua, Elegbara, and related forms are used throughout this episode to explore the complexity and continuity of this Orisha while recognizing that individual traditions may make important distinctions between them.

Okoromi isn't the most attractive girl in the village. But will that change when she goes to the Babalawo for help.

Bonus Episode: Affirmations From a Disappointed Daughter A different kind of episode today. No stories, no history just five minutes of affirmations for the daughters carrying more than they should have to. This one is for anyone who loved a parent who didn't know how to love gently back. For the women who've done the work, made peace with the past, and are still, some days, sitting with the hurt underneath it. Determination. Healing. Compassion. Growth. Say them with me. You don't have to be finished healing to deserve peace. Press play, breathe, and let's sit in this together. 💛 Follow along @theasheshop for more

After the death of her mother, the oldest daughter of the Senior wife of the King of Ile Ife only wants to claim what is righfully hers. Her mother's beads. However, her younger sisters have other plans. References Iba Se Orisa- Awo Falokun Fatunmbi

In this episode of Storytime with The Ashé Shop, we’re diving deep into the sacred mystery of Ori. The divine inner head that chooses our destiny long before we take our first breath. Through storytelling, reflection, and a touch of that Ashé Shop humor, Ashley guides you into the ancient wisdom behind why your path is uniquely yours… even when life feels messy, uncertain, or downright chaotic. You’ll hear the pataki behind the proverb “A chosen Ori is irrevocable,” explore what it means to walk in alignment with your destiny, and learn how to honor the spiritual blueprint you agreed to before arriving on Earth. This episode is here to uplift your spirit, affirm your purpose, and remind you that your Ori is always guiding you back to yourself.Take a breath, settle in, and embrace the Ashé.

Storytime #46- How to Choose a Good Ori When Orisanku (son of Ogun), Oritemere (son of Ija), and Afuwape (son of Orunmila) decide it's time for them to travel from Orun to Aye, they know that they must go to Ajala's workshop to choose their Ori. Do they make the right choice? References: Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other DeitiesBrown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

In this episode of Storytime with The Ashé Shop, we dive into the powerful Yoruba pataki that reveals what happens before we are born, when each soul chooses its Ori—its personal divinity and destiny. This ancient story reminds us that while life may twist, turn, and hit unexpected detours, the Ori we select is final and unwavering. We can pray to the Orisha, call on our ancestors, and negotiate with the universe, but ultimately… Ori decides. Join Ashley as she shares this timeless tale with humor, heart, and insight—inviting you to reflect on your own destiny, alignment, and the sacred responsibility of following the path your Ori chose. Take a breath. Settle in.And embrace the Ashé.

What happened when Ode's wife continued to ask questions, despite his best efforts to give her the answers. She just kept asking. Does this story sound familiar? References: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá Cuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other Deities Lele,Ochani . Teachings of the Santería Gods: The Spirit of the Odu (p. 174). (Function). Kindle Edition

Oba and Shango had a few problems in their marriage. Can they solve this problem? Tell us what you thought about this story. Reference: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

This story givesus insight into how nature began to take its course. You know the birds and the bees... References: Lele, Ochani . Teachings of the Santería Gods: The Spirit of the Odu. Kindle Edition.

They call us angry like it’s an insult. But in this episode, we reclaim that fire. These 60 affirmations are a sacred offering for every Black woman who’s been told she’s too loud, too bold, too emotional. You’ll hear powerful words rooted in ancestral wisdom and guided by the Orisha...Yemaya, Oshun, Oya, and Oba Nani. This is not about silencing your rage...it’s about honoring it, healing through it, and remembering who you are. So press play, take a breath, and return to your power. Because your anger isn’t the problem...your suppression is.

In this episode of Orisha University, we explore the mysterious and powerful Orisha Olokun — guardian of the ocean's depths and keeper of the subconscious mind. Discover how Olokun represents mental health, hidden truths, and emotional balance. Through story, symbolism, and spiritual insight, we unravel the lessons Olokun offers about ego, illusion, and inner healing. References: Brown, David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of IfáCorreal, Tobe Melora. Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa: A West African Spiritual Tradition (p. 9). Clarkson Potter/Ten SpeedCuoco, Alex. African Narratives of Orishas, Spirits and Other DeitiesJones, Nia - Morgan Oşun Yami. Merindilogun Folktales: Morals of Yoruba Odus Relating Today's LifestylesKumari, Ayele. Isese: Spirituality Workbook, The Ancestral Wisdom of the Ifa Orisa Tradition.Wiles Quinones, Ayoka. I Hear Olofi's Song: A Collection of Yoruba Spiritual Prayers for Egun and Orisa . Oshun Publishing.

Olokun had 5 daughters with Olosá and four daughters with Oloná. And another daughter named Aganá Erí. With Olosá (Owner of Lagoons possible path of Nana Buruku) Omí Losá Oruko Omí Losá Lashé Omí Losá Bokún Omí Losá Orun Omí Losá Foshé With Oloná (ancient river Orisha) Omí Loná Oruku Omí Loná Lashé Omí Loná Bokún Omí Loná Orun Reference: Brown,David H. Patakin: Orisha Stories from the Odu of Ifá

Ever wonder why practitioners greet each other by saying Iboru, Iboye, Ibosise? Well this pataki gives some insight into the saying and meaning! Reference: Jones,Nia - Morgan Oşun Yami. Merindilogun Folktales: Morals of yoruba Odus Relating Today's Lifestyles Volume 1- Ogunda Meji

Orunmila Decides to create something important before leaving to learn to divine. After greeting him warmly and showing him great hospitality will they accept when he has to leave behind. Let me know what you think about this story! Reference: Jones, Nia - Morgan Oşun Yami. Merindilogun Folktales: Morals of yoruba Odus Relating Today's Lifestyles Volume 1