Prostitutes Ila Orangun

The history of Ila-Orangun is deeply intertwined with the worship of Orisa Iya, a goddess of fertility and protector of women.

The Sacred Priestesses

The priestesses of Orisa Iya, known for their sacred roles, were sometimes referred to as prostitutes by early European visitors who misunderstood their cultural and religious functions. These women held significant power and were respected in the community, serving as healers, counselors, and intermediaries between the people and the goddess.

Cultural Transformation

Over time, colonial influences and changing social norms led to the stigmatization of these priestesses, and the term took on a derogatory meaning. Today, efforts are being made to reclaim and preserve the original significance of these roles in Yoruba culture.

*TAGS* – Orisa Iya worship, Yoruba priestesses, colonial stigmatization