Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa: A West African Spiritual Tradition Kindle Edition

Curious and not knowing what to expect, this book was my introduction to the Yoruba religion, "the science of allowing God to flow through you, so that each breath becomes a prayer, and as God breathes, you breathe." I have only read Part I: A Yoruba Vision of God & Life, yet I can say for certain that this book is an answer to my heart's prayer. The book is well written and the Author's voice is so clear, it is as if she is in conversation with you. As the chapters unfold, questions are raised and answers are provided leaving the reader with a cellular level understanding of God's plan for our lives. Some of the concepts have been appropriated by newer religions and sciences so it is wonderful to read the traditional teachings in their pure form, minus the disparaging fictional Hollywood fantasy of Africa or complete white washing that many religions require. If you've ever felt that Buddhism, syncretized Catholicism, the Black Pentecostal or white American churches were missing something, some intangible "thing," this book will help you name it, and I suspect upon completion, it will help you move past it. The author, "titled this book Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa, and the word 'finding' is important and intentional. It implies that the soul, our deep spiritual center, is always present. We need only turn inward to draw on its power during our journey of struggle and transformation."

Where do I begin with this book? I loved it so much from beginning to end. So many books on Lucumi/Ifa/Orishas focus on the specifics of each orisha and their characteristics, addimus, rituals, colors, etc, but this book focuses more on the core, meat and essence of what African spirituality is truly all about. Reread the title of the book outloud a few times, as it really captures what her book is about. Her breakdown of finding your SOUL path was done artistically and beautifully. You will see the spiritual realm you live and the journey you are embarking on very different after reading this book. Very few books I would want to read more than once, but this one is one I can read again and again! Correal, you have a gift with words. Adupe for this special creation!

The author does a good job explaining basic Yoruba tradition and concepts. She also does well sharing her personal journey and thoughts on Yoruba spiritual tradition. However, I was disappointed because this is another book that tries to justify the incorporation of those without African ancestry into ATR. Although I am not an initiate of any organized religion, I find it highly offensive to those who were brutally stripped of their indigenous practices and treated inhumanly by those who did.ATRs have been demonized by colonizers and still today by those who have been colonized. Most ATRs are centered around ancestry. Logically, who are “others” calling on and honoring in their daily lives as an ATR initiate? Even going back 100 years, considering segregation and the current state of race relations in America and abroad, how many of these ancestors of “others” are worthy to be honored and sought out for guidance and protection? Make it make sense unless your sole goal is to cause chaos and confusion.*shrugs*.I enjoy learning about all things spiritual and metaphysical no matter the author’s views. I maybe wrong but I think the author is biracial and is trying to rectify her ancestry on both sides. Nothing wrong with elevation, but the error is in giving those without African ancestry the permission to practice that which isn’t inherently theirs. I wish people with African ancestry would stop the watering down of ATRs to appease “others”. Native Americans protect their legacies and spirituality and no one finds this offensive. Why is that?“Others” have their own forms of “magic”. They write so many books on ATRs that it’s hard to find reputable sources for research and enjoyment. I’m not suggesting that one belief system or ancestry is above another. No not all. I passionately encourage “others” to be authentic because authenticity is a core tenet of all belief systems. Nothing wrong with Wiccan, etc. We need “magic” from every belief system to bring balance, healing, and harmony to the world. ATRs are not “new age” nor a fad. It’s not something you join like Christianity even though anyone can pay to be initiated into most ATRs no matter their ancestry. However, I humbly believe ATRs are traditions and practices that should be respected by “others” and protected by those of African descendants.Let me ask: Would you give $500,000 of a million dollar inheritance to a complete stranger? Probably not because it was your blood relative’s hard work and sacrifices that will hopefully shield you from poverty while providing you with a more comfortable lifestyle....Love & Light.

I really enjoyed this book - after finding out my ancestors were most likely from the Ivory Coast / Ghana (DNA testing) I began researching the paths of religion from that area. I was drawn to this book by recommendations from knowledgeable friends, and was not disappointed. I’ve learned a lot and feel more ready to continue my personal journey. Well worth the read - but more than that - take action after reading it!

As a person of the diaspora who is fond of Orisha I found this book to be my saving grace it stays on my bedside table. I am forever grateful for this. Ase.

Educational and very helpful in finding ones pathway through Orisha tradition. Helped me to understand why I was led to the path of Orisha and what I hope to achieve from the orisha

Good book

I think everyone who is interested in Orisha should have this book. Glad I came across it.

This book is incredible. It’s all the knowledge I was looking for. Thank you