3. What is the Concept of Tawede? Do You Think That It Is Needed in Ifa/Isese as a Spiritual Observance?
A SwamiG Institute response rooted in the pragmatic and inner-developmental framework of Ifa/Isese spiritual practice.
Response
What is Tawede?
Tawede is a spiritual observance and inner pilgrimage centered on self-development, cleansing, reflection, study, and personal ascension. It is understood as a period in which the devotee intentionally works to uproot limiting patterns, purify the self, and move toward higher consciousness through disciplined spiritual practice. Rather than being only ceremonial, Tawede is a structured observance that invites a person to deepen their relationship to Ori, wisdom, character, and practical Ifa/Isese living.
Is It Needed in Ifa/Isese?
Yes, I believe Tawede is needed in Ifa/Isese as a spiritual observance because it creates intentional space for the casual devotee to slow down, reflect, study, pray, and realign with the deeper purpose of the tradition. In many cases, devotees can become focused mainly on ritual, external performance, or spiritual identity, while neglecting the inward work of transformation. Tawede helps correct that by emphasizing inner growth, discipline, moral development, and applied wisdom. Tawede carries on the energy of Kwanzaa, or the modified Ramadan for The Nation of Islam during the month of December. As a community building observance Tawede is useful. However, the serious initiate or devotee as Awo/ Iyawo will begin every day with a divination and may actually discreetly divine several times daily and as a result will be aligned with the principles of Tawede on a daily basis and will not need to set aside a special series of days in observance.
Why It Matters
The value of Tawede is that it turns Ifa/Isese into more than a collection of rites. It reminds the practitioner that true spiritual development must include study, self-examination, ethical refinement, and conscious living. In that sense, Tawede is needed because it supports the becoming of an authentic human being—one whose life reflects wisdom, balance, and spiritual maturity. It is not just an observance for doing something sacred; it is an observance for becoming someone more sacred in conduct and consciousness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tawede is the concept of intentional spiritual uprooting, cleansing, and elevation. It is needed in Ifa/Isese because it strengthens the inner dimension of the tradition and helps SOME practitioners move beyond surface practice into genuine transformation. Tawede gives form to the work of growing in wisdom, aligning with Ori, and living Ifa/Isese in a pragmatic and spiritually mature way.