The Sacrifice of the Fish and the Rat
A story regarding the duality of Èjì Ogbè and the power of sacrifice to ensure survival.
Philosophical Summary
In the primordial era, the Rat (Eku) lived in constant fear of the predators of the forest, and the Fish (Eja) lived in fear of the nets of the fishermen. Both sought out the wisdom of Èjì Ogbè to find a way to live without the constant shadow of death. The sign taught them that even in total light, one must know how to 'hide' within their destiny. Èjì Ogbè instructed the Rat to offer corn and cloth, and the Fish to offer cool water and herbs. By performing these sacrifices, the Rat gained the speed and wit to escape the cat, and the Fish gained the slipperiness to escape the net. This Patakí establishes why the Rat and the Fish are the two primary 'witnesses' offered during Ifá divination (Eku-meji, Eja-meji), representing the duality of the land and the water under the light of Ogbè.
Overview
This Patakí provides the theological origin for the most common offerings in Ifá.
Usage Context
Told during divination to encourage a client that sacrifice will provide the protection needed to avoid a 'net' or 'trap' currently in their path.
Interpretation
The Rat and Fish represent the total expanse of the world (Land and Water). Their sacrifice to Èjì Ogbè signifies that all life-forms must pay homage to the first Light to find protection.
Cultural Safety
Public educational narrative.
Sacred Verses
Yorùbá
Eku méjì, eja méjì, ni í tẹ́ ẹní.
English
Two rats, two fish, are what provide the foundation of the offering.
Transliteration
Eh-koo meh-jee, eh-jah meh-jee, nee ee teh eh-nee.
Tradition Perspectives
Overview
Explains the theological requirement of the Dafa ceremony in Nigeria.
Themes & Domains
Governs the concept of 'Survival through Alignment' and the necessity of Ebo.
Directly linked to the physical items found on a Babalawo's tray.
Source: Bascom, Ifa Divination
Overview
Focuses on the 'Adimu' (offerings) given to the Warriors to ensure a clear path.
Themes & Domains
Associated with the protection of the initiate's physical health.
Source: Mason, Rituals
Overview
The relationship between the Axé of the land and the Axé of the water.
Themes & Domains
Governs the stability of the 'Jogo de Búzios' foundation.
Source: Thompson