Honoring Ancestors in the Tradition of Ifa & Lucumí: A Guide for Bella's Apothecary

In the spiritual traditions of Ifa and Lucumí, honoring our ancestors—collectively known as Egun—is foundational. These spirits are the roots of our practices, guiding and protecting us, and linking us to the wisdom of those who came before us. Before calling upon the Orishas or beginning any ceremony, we first acknowledge Egun, paying our respects and offering gratitude for the paths they paved.

Who are the Ancestors?

In both Ifa and Lucumí, Egun encompasses not only our bloodline ancestors but also our spiritual lineage. This includes biological relatives who have passed on, as well as the initiatory ancestors, like godparents and elders in our spiritual communities, who initiated and guided us. Egun are our direct spiritual and familial connections, distinct from other revered spirits such as Ará Orún—inhabitants of the spiritual realm who may be guides, saints, or other elevated entities not directly related to us by blood or spiritual lineage.

In Ifa, ancestral reverence is profound, recognizing that we carry the strength, struggles, and wisdom of those who came before us. For those who are adopted, this respect extends to both biological and adoptive family members, acknowledging the bond of love, support, and growth that shaped their lives.​

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​Setting Up an Ancestral Shrine in Ifa and Lucumí Tradition

A traditional ancestral shrine in Ifa and Lucumí is typically set up close to the ground, often in a corner of a room such as the kitchen or bathroom, or outdoors. The choice of these locations is symbolic, connecting the shrine to the earth where our ancestors are buried. In Ifa, grounding the shrine in this way aligns with honoring the earth as the resting place of Egun, reinforcing the relationship between the physical and spiritual realms.

Creating the shrine often involves drawing a half-circle with chalk or cascarilla (efun) on the wall and floor, symbolizing the transition between our world and the world of the ancestors. This is a visual reminder that, as the sun sets here, it rises in their world. Traditionally, offerings of food, drink, candles, and items enjoyed by our ancestors are placed within this sacred space, along with the opá ikú, a staff used to call upon Egun through rhythmic tapping as prayers are recited.
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In some lineages, a specially prepared stone or tile inscribed with sacred symbols is included to invoke and honor the spirits of Egun. This practice, rooted in Ifa, serves as a focal point for connection and communication with ancestral spirits, providing a tangible link to their presence.

Making Offerings to Egun

Offering food and drink to Egun is a significant part of honoring them. Both Ifa and Lucumí practices emphasize that offerings reflect the tastes of our ancestors and serve as a means of keeping their memory alive. Common offerings include traditional foods, drinks (such as coffee, tea, or rum), and even modern items if an ancestor enjoyed them. Plates used for offerings are often chipped or cracked, a practice that echoes the tradition of breaking plates when a priest passes on.

In Ifa, lighting a candle is a way to provide spiritual illumination, while tobacco or cigar smoke can be offered to further connect with Egun. Fresh flowers are another traditional offering symbolizing life and remembrance, and they are given specifically to the ancestors rather than the Orishas.
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When making these offerings, it is customary to tap the opá ikú as we recite prayers, calling our ancestors to join us and offering them our gratitude and respect. This is often done with a Yuba (or Moyuba) prayer, which may be specific to one's lineage. In Ifa, the act of calling out our ancestors’ names brings their presence into the space, acknowledging their role in our lives and inviting their guidance and blessings.

​Daily Acknowledgment & Weekly Rituals

In both Ifa and Lucumí, we honor Egun beyond ceremonial offerings by incorporating them into daily life. It is a common practice to give the first serving of each meal to Egun, symbolizing our respect and continual connection. Offerings are generally left until they begin to spoil, acknowledging the cycle of life and death. The shrine is typically refreshed weekly or monthly to keep the connection strong, ensuring that Egun remains an active and respected part of our spiritual lives.
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At Bella’s Apothecary, the ancestral wisdom and practices of Ifa and Lucumí are woven into everything we create. By honoring Egun and using ingredients that reflect our heritage, we create products that not only nurture the skin but also nurture the spirit, connecting us to our ancestors and to the earth. Each ritual is an invitation to ground ourselves, to draw strength from those who came before us, and to embrace the legacy of resilience and self-love they left behind.