A Play Of the Third Age Of Strife

The blogger with unbridled nostalgia returns back home and treats this fiction differently.At this time he tells how

ifa oracle using Ogbomosho warriors win the third world wars and the world marvel as power came back to Africa.

Based on the principles of Ifa divination, interpreting an event like a "Third World War" through the oracle requires a consultation by a trained diviner (Babalawo) who uses symbolic language to address human problems. The provided query cannot be answered directly as a literal prediction because Ifa does not typically forecast specific future events like a modern military conflict. Instead, the oracle communicates in allegorical verses (Odu Ifa) that guide people on how to navigate the challenges of the human condition.

In the fictional but epochal works details of how  "Ogbomosho warriors win the third world wars" and "power came back to Africa," should therefore be interpreted symbolically within the Ifa framework.

Symbolic interpretation through Ifa principles

A Babalawo would approach this query by focusing on the underlying themes rather than the literal events.

Ogbomosho Warriors: In historical context, Ogbomosho has a documented legacy of military resilience and tactful strategy in defending against invaders. Historically, Ogbomosho's strength was bolstered by an influx of refugees during the 19th-century Fulani wars, transforming it into a powerful city. Symbolically, "Ogbomosho warriors" could represent a people who are brave, resolute, and ultimately successful in overcoming oppression and tactical attacks.

Third World War: Ifa would not interpret this as a literal global conflict with modern weapons. Instead, a "Third World War" could symbolize a period of great strife, upheaval, and existential crisis for humanity. It could represent a spiritual, social, or political conflict that requires profound wisdom and courage to overcome.

Power Comes Back to Africa: Within the context of Ifa, this can be interpreted as a return to traditional African values, heritage, and identity as a path to liberation. It symbolizes a shift away from self-hatred and a reclaiming of cultural pride and self-worth, leading to a new era of strength and potential for the continent.

How the symbolic "victory" is achieved

Through a consultation (Dafa), Ifa would not reveal a specific military strategy but would instead provide a path for achieving success against the symbolic "war." The verses revealed during the divination would likely emphasize the following:

Sacrifice and Righteousness (Ebo): Ifa verses describe situations that require sacrifice (ebo) to avert misfortune and ensure good fortune. The victory would be achieved not through brute force, but through adherence to spiritual principles and the performance of necessary rituals.

Wisdom and Intellect: Orunmila, the deity of wisdom and intellectual development, is the central figure in Ifa. Winning the "war" would depend on using wisdom and intelligence, not just strength.

Tactical Resilience: Ogbomosho's history of fighting tactically and winning battles would be evoked. This signifies that strategic and discrete action, not just overt force, is the key to victory.

Collective Strength: The historical influx of different peoples into Ogbomosho created a strong, unified city. This emphasizes that collective action, unity, and embracing diverse perspectives are essential for the symbolic victory.

In summary, from an Ifa perspective, the story is an allegorical one. The "warriors" of Ogbomosho would achieve victory in this global crisis by embracing their deep cultural heritage, employing wisdom and resilience, and acting collectively, demonstrating that spiritual strength is the ultimate power.

As a general principle of Ifa divination, it is not possible to predict specific future events like a "Third World War" through the oracle. Ifa, as a spiritual practice of the Yoruba people, uses symbolic language and allegorical verses (Odu Ifa) to guide people on how to deal with the challenges of life. A Babalawo (diviner) would therefore interpret the query metaphorically.

Here is an allegorical story based on Ifa principles as narrated by the blogger that addresses the themes of Ogbomosho's warriors, global conflict, and the rise of African power.

In a time not of the past, but of the great future, a time the world called the "Third Age of Strife," the earth was covered not in the smoke of bombs but in the poison of falsehood. All nations vied for power through deceit, and the spirit of humanity grew weak. The old traditions of wisdom and community were forgotten, and the heart of the world was full of chaos.

Orunmila, the spirit of wisdom, saw this coming and was consulted by the spirits of Africa. The oracle fell, and the verse of Odu spoke not of modern armies, but of an old town: Ogbomosho.

"In the place where war cannot subjugate the land, the people will hold the key to the spirit of the world," the oracle revealed. "For their power is not in their spears, but in their memory. Their strength is not in their shields, but in their spirit."

The world, marveled as it was, did not know how Ogbomosho's warriors, who were not fighting a modern war, would win this "third world war." But the Ifa oracle spoke in riddles, and its meaning was spiritual.

The battle of remembrance: The true battle was not fought with weapons of iron, but with the tools of memory. The warriors of Ogbomosho, taught by the oracle, began to remember. They remembered the stories of how their ancestors had once created a city of refuge. They remembered how they had successfully resisted the invasions of the past, not by brute force alone, but by wit, tactics, and unity. This remembrance of their heritage and resilience became a powerful force.

The fortification of the spirit: In the time of the Fulani wars, Ogbomosho's fortification was so potent that enemy plans would leak or falter before an attack. The oracle revealed that this principle was a spiritual one. In this new age of strife, the Ogbomosho warriors strengthened not their physical walls, but their spiritual ones. They performed the necessary sacrifices (ebo) to avert misfortune and clear the path of wisdom. This spiritual defense, built on righteousness and tradition, confused and dismantled the deceitful tactics of the global powers.

The power of humility and tact: While other nations clamored for recognition, the warriors of Ogbomosho worked with humility, as the oracle had foretold. They were silent but wise. Like a hunter who waits patiently before striking, they acted with tact and precision. They built new alliances based on trust and shared values, not on deceitful treaties. This quiet strength was a stark contrast to the world's loud and empty boasts.

The return of power: As the nations that relied on falsehood collapsed under the weight of their own lies, the world marveled at Ogbomosho. Their city, built on a foundation of spiritual strength and collective memory, was a beacon of hope. They had not "won" a war in the conventional sense, but they had won the war of the human spirit.

Other African nations, inspired by Ogbomosho's example, began to look inward, to their own traditions and values. They, too, remembered the forgotten knowledge, honored their ancestors, and built their future on a foundation of truth. In this return to heritage and spiritual identity, the true power came back to Africa, and a new age of prosperity began. The world did not witness a military victory, but a spiritual rebirth, and it was a victory of the mind and spirit over chaos and greed.

The wisdom of the elders

As the world outside descended into chaos, the warriors of Ogbomosho did not meet nor fight "Third World War" with easy glove but with mystic forces to tame violence. Instead, they deepened their study of Ifa. They understood that the conflict was not one of nations against nations, but of humanity against its own forgotten wisdom. The Ifa verses, consulted day and night, spoke of a time of reckoning, but also of renewal. The elders taught the young that the true enemy was the spirit of falsehood that had poisoned the hearts of nations, the same spirit their ancestors had defeated with spiritual fortitude centuries ago.

The power of remembrance: The warriors, through the guidance of their Babalawo, went into deep meditation on the concept of Iwa—the moral and ethical character that defines a person. They remembered that a true Ogbomosho warrior is not only strong in battle but also in spirit. This inner strength, rooted in integrity, became their most potent weapon. Their unity, forged in the crucible of their shared heritage, became a spiritual shield against the deceitful tactics of the warring world.

A new type of diplomacy

While the world's leaders engaged in empty, destructive rhetoric, the African leaders, inspired by Ogbomosho's quiet strength, began a different kind of diplomacy. They did not negotiate for profit or power but for reconciliation and restoration. They brought their ancient wisdom to the global stage, teaching that peace is not merely the absence of violence but the conscious restoration of harmony between all things.

They reminded the world of the interconnectedness of all life (Ase), showing that the self-destruction of one part of humanity was a threat to all.

They taught the concept of Ori, or destiny, explaining that each person and nation has a unique purpose and that a true war is against one's own destiny when it is twisted by greed.

They called for a return to respecting nature, honoring the earth, and understanding that the health of the environment is intertwined with the health of humanity.

The world's marvel

The world, having exhausted its weapons and its lies, began to marvel. They saw that the strength of Africa was not in its resources, which had been plundered, but in its soul, which had remained intact. The great cities of the world, built on falsehoods, began to crumble under the weight of their own corruption. But in the heart of Africa, a new kind of power was rising, built on the solid ground of wisdom, resilience, and ethical character.

The story of the Ogbomosho warriors became a legend not of conquest, but of spiritual victory. It was the story of how a people, by remaining true to their heritage and wisdom, could withstand the most destructive forces of the world and emerge victorious. As the world sought guidance from the wisdom of Ifa and the principles it embodied, the power came back to Africa, not as a return to old glory, but as the dawning of a new, more truthful age for all humans 

The concept of a "new world order" has been used in various contexts throughout history, often referring to periods of significant global change and the emergence of new power structures or international arrangements. Examining historical shifts can provide insight into how global dynamics evolve.

Historically, major conflicts or events have often led to discussions about reordering the world. For example, the end of major wars has frequently prompted efforts to establish new systems of international relations and cooperation to prevent future conflicts. These discussions often involve diplomatic negotiations, the formation of international organizations, and the establishment of new norms and agreements between nations.

The idea of a "new world order" can also relate to shifts in economic power, technological advancements, or the rise of new ideologies that influence global affairs. Understanding these historical and ongoing processes requires examining various perspectives and considering the complex interplay of political, economic, and social factors that shape the international landscape.)

Enjoy the play.

A PLAY OF THE THIRD AGE OF STRIFE

Characters:

ALAFIN: King of a great Yoruba kingdom. He is wise but troubled.

BABALAWO: A powerful Ifa priest. Calm and full of insight.

IBUKUN: An elder of Ogbomosho. Steadfast and patient.

AYO: A young, fiery warrior of Ogbomosho. Eager for battle.

NARRATOR: The voice of Ifa and the storyteller.

(The stage is bathed in a pale, ethereal light. A divination tray sits at the center. The sound of a gentle drumbeat, slow and deliberate, begins and continues throughout the scene. The NARRATOR enters, moving with purpose.)

NARRATOR

In a time the world called the "Third Age of Strife," the earth was covered not in the smoke of bombs but in the poison of falsehood. All nations vied for power through deceit, and the spirit of humanity grew weak. The old traditions of wisdom and community were forgotten, and the heart of the world was full of chaos.

(The NARRATOR gestures toward a throne, where the ALAFIN sits, looking troubled. Next to him, the BABALAWO sits patiently, holding a divination chain. On the other side of the stage, IBUKUN and AYO stand among a group of silent Ogbomosho warriors.)

ALAFIN

(Sighs heavily)

The world is a river of poisoned water, Babalawo. The nations of the world fight over what they do not own, and the spirit of man is broken. They call for war, but they know not the battle they fight. The winds carry their lies across the seas, and our young people are confused.

BABALAWO

(Calmly)

And what does the wind say of the fight, Kabiyesi? The fighting of iron and steel?

ALAFIN

(Angrily)

It says that the nations seek to possess and to destroy. They see the strength of iron, and they forget the strength of the spirit. What can we do? Our spears and shields are not like their thunder weapons.

(The BABALAWO closes his eyes and casts the divination chain. The cowrie shells fall onto the tray with a soft clatter. He looks at the pattern for a long moment, then begins to chant. His voice is low but powerful.)

BABALAWO

(Chanting)

Ifa l'onile aye, Eledumare lo l'orun.

Man is unbelievably stupid, yet he thinks himself wise.

The nations squander the wealth of the earth, and live a life of vanity.

(He opens his eyes, looking at the ALAFIN.)

BABALAWO

The wisdom of the world is like a man with a full stomach and no memory. He forgets he was once hungry. The path to victory is not through their battle, but through another. The path is in the city of Ogbomosho.

(The ALAFIN looks at the Ogbomosho warriors. They are silent, but AYO moves forward, restless.)

AYO

(Proudly)

We are ready, Kabiyesi! Our spirits are strong, and our arms are ready! We will show them the strength of Ogbomosho! We will meet their war with our own!

IBUKUN

(Placing a hand on AYO's shoulder)

Patience, my child. The oracle does not speak of the war you see. It speaks of the war that is unseen. We must first fight the war of remembrance.

(The scene shifts to the Ogbomosho group. They are no longer in battle stance. They sit in a circle, and IBUKUN speaks to them, a group of younger warriors.)

IBUKUN

Remember our history. We were a city of refuge, and we welcomed all with honor. We won battles not only with strength but with cunning and wisdom. A silent warrior, they called us. A calm city with an intense spirit.

AYO

(Confused)

But what of the enemy outside? Their poison is spreading! Their lies are a disease!

IBUKUN

The antidote to their poison is our truth. The cure for their disease is our spirit. When they shout, we will remember our story. While they deceive, we will fortify our spirits with sacrifice and righteousness (ebo). This is our weapon. This is our fortification.

NARRATOR

As the nations exhausted their weapons and their lies, they began to weaken under the weight of their own corruption. They looked to the silent people, whose unity was unbreakable. They looked to the resilient town, whose wisdom was a fortress. And they marveled.

(The stage darkens slightly, and the sounds of the world's chaos fade. A single, clear, hopeful note from the drum remains. The ALAFIN and BABALAWO watch from a distance as the Ogbomosho warriors continue to chant. AYO now stands with his head held high, his spirit calm and firm.)

ALAFIN

(In awe)

The victory is not in the conquering of a foe, but in the steadfastness of the spirit. They did not raise a weapon.

(The stage goes black as the drumbeat comes to a peaceful, final stop.)

(The sound of the world's chaos becomes louder—the sound of distant voices arguing, the clashing of unseen forces. The Ogbomosho warriors begin to chant quietly, their voices a soft but powerful melody. They hold their ground, their faces serene.)

BABALAWO

(Smiling)

Indeed. The victory was won through the strength of character (Iwa) and a return to the forgotten path. The spirit of Africa did not return through force, but through wisdom. And the world marveled.

continue

A PLAY OF THE THIRD AGE OF STRIFE (CONT.)

Scene Two: The World Watches

(The stage is divided. On one side, we see the Ogbomosho warriors, calm and chanting, as they were at the end of the last scene. On the other side, a frenetic, brightly-lit newsroom. A large screen displays flickering images of conflict and chaos. NEWSCASTER 1 and NEWSCASTER 2 are seated behind a desk, looking stressed. A MAP with flashing lights and graphs is visible behind them.)

NEWSCASTER 1

(Into the camera)

...and the global markets are in freefall. Nations are turning on one another, and the fragile