The Oracles

The oracles are used to obtain the Orisha's opinions and advice, to see into the future, to counsel those who come to a Santero to seek help and to see what will heal the sick.
The most popular oracles used in Santeria are the coconut oracle (El Coco or Biague) and the cowrie shell oracle (Los Caracoles or Dilogun).


THE COCONUTS (El Coco, Biague)

The coconut oracle is known as Biague to honor the name of the first Babalawo to make use of Olodumare's gift.

According to an old African tale, Olodumare came to earth and became so enchanted by a coconut palm that he decide to give it a gift.

"Not only will you give nourishment and oil to men," said Olodumare to the palm. "But all the Orishas will read the future in you. The pieces of your fruit will have meaning to the Orishas. They, in turn will pass it on to men."

The oracle operates by interpreting the positions that four pieces of coconut shell (the Obinu) land in when thrown. The Obinu always respond yes or no, so questions to the Biague must be very direct and to the point. For example:

The question: "Should I change my job?"

May have any of the following answers:

ALAFIA; Yes. It is possible.

EYIFE; Yes. Definitely.

OTAWE; Not sure. Throw again.

OCANASODE; No.

OYEKUN; Death. Stop consulting the oracle and go to a Babalawo to find out what's going on.

The simpler the question, the easier the answer's interpretation.

The Obinu are simply pieces of a coconut shell. What gives them their oracular power is the Ashe, the Santero or Santera's grace and natural psychic gifts. It is the Ashe which allows the consultant's relationship with the Orishas. Not everyone can use the Biague.

When consulting the Biague, questions should only be asked of one Orisha at a time. If the person consulting the oracle is not experienced in its manipulation or interpretation, only Elegua should be invoked.

The Biague may be consulted daily, but the same question should not be repeated. Elegua will become bored and play tricks on the questioner. Strange and very upsetting answers will come up. Stupid questions insult the Orishas. The oracle is not to be used as a party game or as an amusement. The Orishas are helpful when treated with respect, but they punish disrespect.

Persons who have not been initiated into Santeria, or do not have an Elegua, may consult the Biague as long as they show proper respect towards the Orishas. The prayers and invocations to Elegua may be made in the person's own language and in their own words.



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