Reconstruction:Proto-Yoruboid/ɪ́-fá

This Proto-Yoruboid entry contains reconstructed terms and roots. As such, the term(s) in this entry are not directly attested, but are hypothesized to have existed based on comparative evidence.

Proto-Yoruboid

Etymology

Ifa divination extends to Proto-Volta-Niger, where the sixteen combination divination exists across almost all languages and cultures of Volta-Niger languages. Ultimately proposed to be from the root Proto-Volta-Niger *-fa, likely associated with divination or pods. Cognates include in Edoid, Edo Ìhà, Urhobo Epha; in Gbe, Fon Fa, Ewe Fa; in Nupoid, Nupe eba, Ebira Eva, Idoma Eva; Igbo Afa, Igbo Aha. The Proto-Yoruboid system of divination is most related to the agbigba system of divination, not the current use of ikin and ọ̀pẹ̀lẹ̀ divination by current Yoruboid peoples.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɪ́.fá/

Noun

*ɪ́-fá

1. a complex system of divination involving the use of shells and pods to make combinations of 16; divination oracle

Proper noun

*ɪ́-fá

1. the spirit or deity associated with divination, wisdom, and the oracle

Descendants

• Igala: Ífá
• Yoruba: Ifá
• Olukumi: Ífá

Related terms

• *ɛ́-bɔ (“deity, divinity”)