Ọ̀ṣun Lures Ọ̀gún from the Forest
Philosophical Summary
Infuriated by the constant ingratitude, petty fighting, and chaotic behavior of humanity, Ọ̀gún completely abandons his forge. Swearing he will never lift a hammer for humanity again, he physically retreats into the deepest, darkest, most impenetrable part of the forest. Without Ọ̀gún, the world rapidly experiences a horrific crisis. All tools break down. Surgery stops. Farming becomes impossible. Starvation sweeps the planet. After several powerful Orishas attempt and fail to drag him back by brute force, Ọ̀ṣun, the Orisha of the sweet waters, takes a radically different approach. Smearing her own body in rich, sweet honey, she ventures into the dark forest and dances directly outside of Ọ̀gún's miserable camp. Overwhelmingly mesmerized by her radiant beauty and the irresistible sweetness of the honey she feeds him, Ọ̀gún becomes completely entranced. He slowly follows her, step by step, all the way back into the center of the town, finally returning to his forge and ultimately saving the dying world.
Summary
Facing global starvation after Ọ̀gún abandons civilization, Ọ̀ṣun uses honey and dance to lure the master of iron back to his duties.
Interpretation
Explains the balance between industry and pleasure. Proves that diplomacy and sensuality are mandatory for cosmic order. Highlights Ọ̀ṣun's power to cool Ọ̀gún's heat, explaining why they are often honored together.
Sacred Verses
English
Disgusted by human ingratitude, Ọ̀gún abandoned his forge and retreated to the deepest forest. Civilization collapsed; tools broke, and starvation gripped the world. Many Orishas tried to force him back but failed. Ọ̀ṣun filled gourds with honey, smeared it on her body, and danced silently at his camp. Entranced by her beauty and the sweetness of the honey she fed him, Ọ̀gún followed her back to the town. His bitterness broken, he relit his fires and saved the world.