Letter of The Year / Letra De Ano

To the priests of Ifá, Obá Oriate, Babaloshas, Iyaloshas, Iworo, and the People in general:

On December 31, 2024, at the social headquarters of the "INSTITUCIÓN RELIGIOSA

ASOCIACIÓN CULTURAL YORUBA DE CUBA," located at Prado #615 between Monte and

Dragones, Municipality La Habana Vieja, La Habana, Cuba, the Ifá priests gathered to perform

the ceremony of THE LETTER OF THE YEAR 2025. The ceremony was presided over by the

High Priest of Ifá, Antonio Sevilla Rodríguez, "Awo Babá Ofún Meyí," supported by the Board

of Directors, the Council of High Priests of Ifá of the Republic of Cuba, affiliates of our

Religious Institution abroad, and guests from other nations.

During the ceremony, the High Priest consulted the 25 positions and drew the Letter of the Year,

prescribing the corresponding sacrifices. This sacred event marked the beginning of 2025 with

guidance and wisdom for the community.

REGENT SIGN

Ògúndá Ògbè

What does Ogunda Ogbe mean?

The Ifa sign Ogunda Ogbe is one of the 256 signs of the Ifa oracular system, which is one of

the most important spiritual traditions in the Yoruba religion. Each sign has its own set of

meanings, teachings and legends, and is interpreted in specific contexts depending on the

consultant.

Ogunda ogbe It is generally associated with themes of strength, struggle and overcoming

obstacles. This sign can indicate the need to be perseverant and to face challenges with

courage. It can also refer to situations where it is important to be clever and strategic, as

well as the need to protect oneself from enemies or adverse situations.

In a more spiritual sense, Ogunda Ogbe can point to the importance of wisdom and

reflection before making decisions. It suggests that one should heed the warnings and

lessons of the past to achieve a more favorable future.

WITNESSES

 First Witness: Bàbá Ìrẹtẹ̀ Méjì

 Second Witness: Òtúrá Ògbè

PROPHETIC PRAYER

Ìrè Àríkú Ọ̀yálẹ̀ Tésí Tímbáláyé

(A blessing of firm and secure health on earth with the support and blessings of all the Orishas).

SACRIFICES PRESCRIBED

Main Ebó to Avoid Negativity

Ebó Ifá:

 Offering: A rooster, two yellow hens, river and sea water, a piece of stone, purple cloth,

smoked fish, smoked hutía, roasted corn, coconut, and soil from the four corners of the

house.

Ebó of Santeros:

 Offering: A hen, a trap, three arrows, river and sea water, a piece of yam, and a coconut.

RULING ORISHAS OF 2025

 Ruling Divinity: Shangó

 Companion: Oshún

 Flag: Red with white border

What does Shango mean as a governing divinity?

Shango (or Shango) is one of the most important deities in the Yoruba religion and his cult

has spread to other African American traditions, such as Santeria in Cuba and Candomblé

in Brazil. He is the god of thunder, lightning, fire and war, and is considered a symbol of

power, strength and justice. Here are some key facts about Shango:Armas

 Power and Strength Shango is seen as a king and is often associated with authority

and leadership. His personality is strong and charismatic, and he is considered a

brave warrior and protector of his people.

 Justice and EquityAs a ruling deity, Shango is also a defender of justice. He is called

upon to resolve conflicts and is known to be impartial, ensuring that justice is served

in difficult situations.

 Relationships and PassionShango is known for his passionate nature and his loving

relationships. In mythology, he has had several wives, including Oya (the goddess of

winds and storms) and Oba. His romantic nature and vital energy are reflected in

his cult.

 Rituals and Offerings: Specific offerings are offered to Shango, which may include

fruits, food, and other gifts that symbolize gratitude and devotion. His festivities are

often filled with music, dance, and celebrations in his honor.

 Symbols: His depiction often includes the double-edged axe, which symbolizes his

power over thunder and lightning. The colors associated with Shango are red and

white, which reflect his strength and his connection to the earth and sky.

Influence on Culture Shango has influenced a variety of cultural expressions, including

music, dance, and literature. His presence is a symbol of resistance and empowerment for

many in Afro-descendant communities.

IN THIS SIGN IS BORN:

 The representation of Olófin on earth.

 Common graves.

 Sadness and melancholy.

 Vandalism and delinquency.

SAYINGS OF THE SIGN:

 "A single man with Ifá's help challenges and defeats 30 men."

 "Infidelity opens the grave."

 "The fire of adultery consumes the heart."

 "If a slave dies, only his mother mourns him. If a free man dies, the whole world speaks

of him."

DISEASES FORECASTED:

 Cancerous diseases, stomach and duodenal ulcers, and internal malignant tumors.

 Diseases from food intoxication and allergies.

 Sexually transmitted venereal diseases.

 Throat diseases.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2025

1. Take measures against the intensification of criminal activities.

2. Analyze economic investments and their consequences carefully.

3. Eliminate the accumulation of garbage and areas that facilitate the spread of epidemics.

4. Care for and respect family and marital integrity.

5. Pay special attention to adolescents and young people.

6. Be cautious in conversations in front of children.

7. Reduce alcohol and drug consumption.

8. Avoid consuming pork, as it is considered indigestible.

9. Receive Oduduwa if not yet done.

10. Pay special attention to Elegua, Oshún, and Olokun.

11. Place mariwo (palm fronds) at the door and use white sheets.

12. Daughters of Oshún should avoid using yellow clothing.

13. Do not repurpose funds allocated for religious ceremonies.

14. Clean houses with quimbombó water.

15. Respect the discretion of sacred rituals.

16. Pray for understanding and peace among nations.

17. Be cautious with food prepared outside the home.

MOST IMPORTANT MESSAGES OF THE LETTER OF THE YEAR 2025

We have added additional information about the sign for our readers:

1. Good Character as the Pillar of Success:

Ifá emphasizes that honesty, integrity, and good character are essential for progress in

life. Lies and dishonesty attract misfortune and hinder positive destiny.

2. The Importance of Propitiating Egbe:

To ensure marital and family stability and happiness, Ifá recommends regular sacrifices

to Egbe and maintaining spiritual harmony at home.

3. Protection Against Enemies and Negative Energies:

Ifá assures that those who act with strong faith and follow the prescribed sacrifices will

be protected against enemies and negative energies. Consistent faith is key to overcoming

adversity.

4. Family Strength and Procreation:

Ifá predicts prosperity and emotional stability in the family for those who follow spiritual

recommendations. This sign promotes harmony and the arrival of new children.

5. Avoiding Arrogance and Overconfidence:

Ifá warns that pride and arrogance can lead to failure. Humility and prudence are

essential to maintaining balance in all areas of life.

6. Success in Business and Investments:

Ifá advises acting wisely and performing the prescribed sacrifices to achieve financial

prosperity. Patience and perseverance will be crucial for economic success.

7. Beware of Toxic Influences:

Ifá highlights the importance of identifying and avoiding false friendships or

relationships that could bring chaos. Sacrifices will help reveal enemies and ensure

safety.

8. Healing and Holistic Health:

Ifá prescribes specific rituals to overcome illnesses and prevent health issues. Spiritual

connection and appropriate sacrifices will ensure physical and mental well-being.

9. Respect for Traditions and Taboos:

Following spiritual rules and respecting taboos is essential for maintaining stability and

avoiding misfortune. Avoiding forbidden foods or behaviors is key.

10. Faith as the Key to Triumph:

Ifá guarantees that those who maintain unwavering faith in the Orishas and follow the

prescribed sacrifices will overcome obstacles and achieve their goals, standing out above

others.

To all our followers:

This year, Ifá's message invites us to walk with faith, integrity, and humility. Let us remember

that we can transform our reality through effort, good character, and spiritual connection. Face

challenges with confidence and hope, trusting in the guidance of the Orishas and in your own

capacity to grow and prosper.

Ase.

ABOUT THE LETTER OF THE YEAR 2025

The Letter of the Year is the most important ceremony of the Osha Ifá Rule. It is a prediction

made from a complex oracular system, aimed at achieving harmony and balance. The prediction

of the Letter of the Year consists of recommendations and warnings to avoid negative unforeseen

events and navigate the coming year with ashé.

This tradition has been released in Cuba since the 19th century, with the first Cuban babalawo

being Remigio Herrera, Obara Méjì, Adeshina, of African origin. This legacy continues in

the Cabildo de Yemayá, established in his house in Regla.

 A group of Cuban priests of the Yoruba religion released the Letter of the Year at dawn on January 1, some advice to face the new period that is beginning. The ceremony, where consecrated practitioners of great experience consecrated to the cult of Ifá meet, is one of the most deeply rooted traditions for believers.

· Ruling Sign: Irete Otura (Irete Suka)

· First Witness: Ika Ogundá

· Second Witness: Otura Ogundá

· Prophetic Prayer: I will go Buyoko Lowo Asojano

· (a seat good through the Orisa Asojano)

· Onishesi: Awan Asojano to whom an Etu (guinea) is sacrificed

· Regent Divinity: Elebara

· Companion:Oyá

· Flag: Purple with a scouring pad

Ebbo Ni Ifá:Akukó, body measurements, a crown, purple cloth, stone from a hill, white cloth, sea water, earth from the four corners, miniestra, smoked fish, smoked jutia and toasted corn. Right.

Ebbó de Santeros:a chicken, a crown, stone from the four corners of the house, three dolls, smoked fish, smoked jutia and toasted corn. Right

In this sign is born

· Go from king to slave.

· That Olófin cannot bless what has no head

· The secret service and military service.

· Obbatalá blessed the young Awoses for their Ashé

Sign sayings:

· Ignorance makes a free man a slave.

· Do not ask another for what you are not capable of fulfilling.

· Mother is not only the one who gives birth, but also the one who raises.

· The rioter destroys everything.

· The eye of the parents protects the children.

Predicted Diseases

· Lower abdominal diseases

· Genetic diseases such as Down syndrome

· Increase in neurological and cerebrovascular diseases, such as

· Autism

· Skin diseases.

Recommendations

· Increase work by the corresponding authorities

· Preventive measures against the ingestion of alcoholic beverages and the consumption of narcotics, preferably among young people. And its consequences.

· Ifá draws attention to the increase in abuse of women and the abandonment of children

· Do not leave your children in anyone's care, as they may harm you. And be careful with them even in your own home.

· Alerts about the increase in criminal activities.

· It is recommended to take precautions with belongings during domestic trips.

· Ifá foresees a decrease in the birth rate

· Ifá calls on young Babalawo to continue improving themselves in the practice of our worship.

· Ifá warns of the tendency on the part of our practitioners to reveal secrets, calling for discretion.

· It is recommended to receive Oduduwa and Asojano

· There is a call to be respectful of the differences between human beings to avoid unnecessary conflicts and disagreements.

· Warning about the consumption of breaded or covered foods.

· The youth should be respectful of the elderly and in turn the elderly should lead by example.

· Ifá warns about an increase in marriage breakups

· Ifá calls for more attention to agricultural productivity and land use.

· It is recommended to make sacrifices to Eshu.

· It is recommended to pray your head after consulting your Guardian Angel.

A group of Cuban priests of the Yoruba religion released the Letter of the Year at dawn on January 1, some advice to face the new period that is beginning. The ceremony, where consecrated practitioners of great experience consecrated to the cult of Ifá meet, is one of the most deeply rooted traditions for believers.

On December 31, 2022 at the headquarters of the Yoruba Cultural Association Religious Institution of Cuba, located at Prado # 615 between Monte and Dragones, Old Havana Municipality, Cuba, the Ifá Priests meet to perform the ceremony of The Letter of the year 2023 , Presided over by the Higher Priest of Ifá Antonio Sevilla Rodríguez Awo Babá Ofún Meyi” and the support of the Board of Directors, the Council of Higher Priests of the Republic of Cuba and its Extensions of Provincial Operations and guests from other nations. The aforementioned High Priest drew the Letter, after consulting the 25 positions and prescribed sacrifices.

Ruling sign: otura niko
First witness: oshe turá
Second witness: ogbe ate
Prophetic prayer: osogbo iku intori elegda orunmila oniré (death or dismissal due to disobedience defends orula)
Onishesi elegda: ogborí elegdá (rogation of the head)
 

Ruling divinity: Obatalá              

Companion: Oshún

Flag: white with yellow trim

Ebbo ni ifa: a rooster, size of the head, drum, snare, arrow, plenty of brandy, honey, white cloth, stone from a hill, river water, corner land, all kinds of food, curujey, quite small ebbo of santeros: osadie, colored strips, body measurements, earth from a hole.

In this sign is born
·      The agitation of the sea.
·      The nervous system in the organism.
·      That death is scared and respects the living. And the Oparaldo.
·      The human races.

Sayings of the sign
·      The iron wanted to persist with the candle
·      He who does good in heaps will receive it in heaps.
·      The broken gourd will never be filled.
·      The father says: If you are not happy in your house, it is better that you come with me.
·      In the land of the dead, I am a foreman.

Diseases that are predicted
·      Presages or increase in diseases associated with the throat and spine,
·      Elevation of deterioration of the nervous system produced by stress,
·      Increase in conditions related to blood pressure.
·      Vector-borne diseases.

Recommendations
·      Perform Paraldos to ward off disturbing entities and attention to the ancestors with sacrifices.
·      It is an Ifa of extensions, and it is recommended not to delay pending religious works and consecrations.
·      Retake preventive health measures in the country as a priority to limit the proliferation of contagious diseases.
·      Alert the competent authorities regarding the excessive use of biochemicals in food, fruits, sausages, and food in general due to its harmful consequences for health.
·      Need for a change of mentality that facilitates development for new socioeconomic perspectives.
·      Legally promote internal economic possibilities in agro-industrial production.
·      Natural disasters are forecast due to hurricanes, sea turmoil and river flooding with economic and human losses.
·      Concern about the aging trend of the population, leaving the youth without support due to their exodus and decrease in the birth rate.
·      The education of children and youth is alerted, notifying the exodus of teachers to other occupations.
·      An increase in violent criminal activities and robberies is expected, so it is recommended to take precautions with individual and state properties.
·      It is predicted an increase in alcohol consumption in the population that generates social problems, so the damage associated with it should be disclosed more.
·      Ifá recommends increasing educational work against domestic violence and respect for women, children, and the elderly.
·      Promote the union of religious regardless of the cult they profess
Ifá emphasizes strengthening the relationship between Godfather and Godson, between Father and Son.

Happy, Safe, and Prosperous Year 2023

May this Letter of the Year 2023 serve and guide you by based of faith, love, understand, respect, humility, and spirituality.