Self-Disruptive Behavior Through the Lens of Yorùbá Values

Invocation

Orí mi, gbé mi lókè.Orí mi, jọ kí n ṣàìrí àṣejù.Kí n mọ èmi, kí n ní ìwà pẹ̀lẹ́, kí n jẹ́ ẹni rere ní ilé àti l'ọ̀run.Àṣẹ.

“My Orí, lift me. May I not fall into excess. May I know myself, walk with a gentle character, and be well in this world and the next. Àṣẹ.”

Introduction

Self-disruptive behavior—actions or thought patterns that hinder personal growth, relationships, or well-being—often stems from deeper internal imbalances. In Yorùbá tradition, ìwà (character) is the foundation of spiritual wellness. Certain traits are seen as warning signs of internal disharmony, while others are seen as remedies. This guide explores disruptive tendencies through a Yorùbá lens, with tools for self-reflection, realignment, and healing.

Àìsùúrù: The Consequences of Impatience

In Yorùbá culture, sùúrù (patience) is one of the highest virtues. The absence of patience—àìsùúrù—leads to frustration, impulsiveness, and spiritual shortcuts. People may seek instant gratification and struggle to endure challenges with grace.

“Sùúrù l’èrè.” – Patience is profit.

Ritual Suggestion: Offer cool water to your Orí with the prayer: “Orí mi, teach me patience, remove àìsùúrù from my path.”

Journaling Prompt: When have I rushed a process that required patience? What am I afraid will happen if I wait?

Ìgbéraga: Arrogance and Isolation

Ìgbéraga (pride or arrogance) causes spiritual and social disconnection. The proud may resist correction, refuse help, or assume superiority, blocking their own growth.

“Ìgbéraga ni kó ọmọ aráyé kúrò nípa.” – Arrogance drives people away.

Self-Check: Spend time in silence and speak aloud one weakness or area where you need help.

Affirmation: “I welcome the wisdom of others. I grow through humility.”

Journaling Prompt: Where have I let pride stop me from receiving support or guidance?

Ibínú: Anger as a Destructive Fire

Ibínú refers to uncontrolled anger or resentment. It can turn inward (self-harm, shame) or outward (hostility, blame). Left unresolved, it destroys clarity and weakens character.

“Ibínú kì í dá’bẹ̀rẹ̀.” – Anger does not settle matters.

Ritual Practice: Light a white candle and breathe deeply. Pour water over your hands and pray: “Orí mi, cool me. May fire not consume what I love.”

Journaling Prompt: What truth is my anger trying to reveal? How can I respond with intention instead of reaction?

Àìpinnu: The Trap of Indecision

Àìpinnu (indecision or lack of resolve) creates confusion, fear, and stagnation. In Yorùbá thought, action and motion are vital to fulfilling destiny. Decisions move the Orí forward.

“Ọ̀nà kan kì í wọ̀gbò lọ.” – One path doesn’t enter the forest; you must choose.

Self-Check Ritual: Stand before your mirror, speak your name, and make one firm decision aloud today—no matter how small.

Journaling Prompt: What am I avoiding deciding? What does Orí require of me right now?

Clinging and Emotional Attachment

While Yorùbá does not have a single word for “attachment” in the psychological sense, the wisdom of detachment is woven throughout its teachings. Clinging to expectations, relationships, or materials can create suffering when we fear change.

“Eni tí kò ní’gbà, kì í mọ iye.” – One who cannot let go does not know value.

Practice: Write down one attachment that’s holding you back. Burn or bury the paper, and say aloud: “I release what I cannot control. I trust what will return is for me.”

Journaling Prompt: What am I holding onto that is no longer serving me? What fear lies beneath it?

Ìwà Pẹ̀lẹ́: Character as Healing

The antidote to all self-disruptive traits is ìwà pẹ̀lẹ́—gentle, noble character. This includes:

• Sùúrù – patience

• Ìtẹríba – respect and teachability

• Ìmúlòlùfé – compassion

• Ìfarabalẹ̀ – emotional grounding

• Ìwà-rere – consistent goodness

These aren’t just qualities—they are the evidence of spiritual alignment. True character is the highest offering to Orí and the path back to wholeness.

Daily Devotion: Each morning, offer water to your Orí and speak: “Orí mi, guide me in ìwà pẹ̀lẹ́. Let my character be light.”

Closing Reflection

Self-awareness is a sacred mirror. Yorùbá wisdom teaches that the path to destiny is not external—it lives within our Orí and reveals itself through our behavior. When we observe impatience, pride, anger, fear, or clinging, we are being invited back into balance.

Through ritual, reflection, and honesty, we return to the seat of our own power.

“Orí ni yóò gba ẹni.” – It is your Orí that will save you.

May your journey inward awaken your highest self. May you walk the path of character and clarity. .