Ìwà (A Person’s Character)

Ìwà
A fundamental idea in the Yoruba worldview, Ìwà (character) is frequently seen as the basis of an individual’s life and a source of beauty. A person’s relationships and general success are influenced by their inner traits, which include morality, integrity, and how they interact with the world.
Here is a closer look at Ìwà:

1. Beauty in Character:
   The Yoruba saying “Ìwà l’ẹwà” means “character is beauty,” emphasizing the value of internal attributes above external looks. Character is so essential that it is regarded as a person’s core.
2. Virtue and Morality: Ìwà is strongly associated with virtue and moral behavior.
   Being Ìwàpẹlẹ (having excellent character or being gentle) means being honest, humble, empathetic, and respectful of other people.
3. Connection to Destiny (Orí): There is a connection between Ìwà and Orí, or one’s spiritual nature and destiny.
   One’s Orí can be positively impacted by having good character (Ìwàpẹlẹ), and a positive Orí can help cultivate Ìwàpẹlẹ.
4. Importance in Many Aspects of Life: It is said that having excellent character attracts success in a number of areas, such as finding a compatible mate, landing a career, and raising children. Ìwàpẹlẹ is regarded as a means of fostering enduring bonds and enhancing the welfare of the community.
5. Philosophical Significance: Ìwà includes one’s existence and interactions with the outside world in addition to moral behavior. In a variety of settings, the idea of Ìwà is frequently employed to encourage moral conduct and social responsibility.