Odu Ossá

What the odu Ossá (9 open cowries) answers, advises and warns against, and which orisha speaks through it. Free online cowrie reading.

9 open cowries · Speaks: Iansã, Iemanjá

Domains: abrupt changes · strong emotion · courage · turning points · spirituality · farewells

Strong winds blow. Iansã takes what is loose and Iemanjá gathers what is left — together, they describe a turning point that has already begun, even if you haven't admitted it yet. Ossá is an odu of intense emotion and demanded courage. It is not a bad fall: it is a quick fall, and what is asked is firmness to get through it.

What it answers

Responds well to questions asked amidst crisis, breakup, dismissal, grief, urgent decision, and 'should I endure or should I leave'.

The advice

Do not decide at the height of emotion, but also do not pretend that everything is the same. Seek trustworthy people and real support — including professional, if the burden is great. Let go of what has already come loose.

The warning

An explosion that burns bridges, a decision made in anger, and the opposite: clinging to what has already ended. Be careful with the exhaustion of sustaining alone what is too great.

In a yes-or-no reading

Yes or no does not apply here: the scenario is changing as the question is being asked. Explain this and help the person rephrase when the wind calms down.

Symbols: wind · lightning · lifted leaves · coral and white · rough sea · air sword

Other spellings and correspondences

Spelling Òsá. Candomblé houses make Iemanjá, Iansã and Orí speak, and sometimes Ajalá and the eguns; some lists also include Ewá. Classic readings: renewal, intelligence, gestation.