Why Hair Is Shaved During Ifá and Orisa Initiation: Spiritual Meaning & Tradition
One of the most commonly asked questions by prospective initiates in Yoruba spirituality is: “Why do I need to shave my head during Ifá or Orisa initiation?” In a world where hair is often tied to beauty, identity, and self-worth—especially under Western beauty standards—this requirement can bring emotional and social concerns. Friends or family may not understand, and initiates can feel pressured or even shamed. But hair shaving in Yoruba traditional religion is not about loss—it is about rebirth, cleansing, and deep spiritual transformation. In this post, with the insight of Oloye Ayele Kumari (Facebook user) we explore the 4 core spiritual reasons behind this ancient ritual and explain why it’s a sacred and powerful part of becoming one with the divine. ✂️ 1. Initiation is a Spiritual Rebirth Initiation into Ifá or any Orisha path is more than a religious ceremony— �� It is a rebirth of the soul . Shaving the head marks the shedding of y...
