Oracle: Orisha Oshun

Orisha Oshun

Myth

Oshun is an orisha, or spirit, of the Yoruba religion of West Africa. She is associated with water, fertility, love, luxury, and pleasure, though she is also seen as fiercely protective, the nurturer and savior of humankind.

In one myth, Oshun is the only female among seventeen orishas sent to populate Earth by the higher Divinities. The others try and fail to bring back life to the planet, ultimately turning to Oshun for help. Through her powerful healing waters, all species of Earth spring into existence.

Not one to be trifled with, Oshun also sends floods and withholds rain when angered. The myths make it clear she can take life as easily as she gives it.

Worship and Legacy

With the rise of the transatlantic slave trade, worship of Oshun and the Yoruba orisha spread to the Americas. She remains well known, by other names such as Oxum and Ochun, in countries like Brazil and Cuba.

Message for August 28, 2025

Oshun reminds us that water can take on any shape and flow with any path. Water has the ability to heal, to bring life, and to destroy. It can carve out its own path in even the most stubborn terrain. Oshun teaches that being adaptable and embracing change is a strength, not a weakness. Be open to whatever life throws at you, rather than resistant.