The term Olódùmarè can be understood through three syllabic compositions or words:

Oló – Odù – Marè (or Marere).

I will explain each of these words so that we may gain a deeper conception of Olódùmarè as the Supreme Authority at all levels of existence.

As human beings and creatures of creation, we share certain qualities, powers and similarities with the Supreme Source, just as a child shares qualities and traits with his or her parents.

OLÓ OR ONÍ

Oló or Oní means:

the owner of,
the Lord of,
the one who possesses,
or the one who deals in or exercises authority over something.

In this context, it signifies supreme ownership and authority.

ODÙ

The word Odù is etymologically, theologically and grammatically complex and technical to explain. Nevertheless, we will attempt to give a simple explanation according to the best of our little knowledge.

Odù, or the Odùs, may signify or embody:

energy, wisdom, authority, power, supremacy, chiefship, destiny, fate, vastness, extensiveness, infinite vibrations, greatness, grandiosity, worthiness and fullness.

Odù therefore goes far beyond an ordinary word. It points toward profound forces, wisdom and principles operating throughout creation.

MARÈ OR MARERE

The word Marè may also be approached through several constructions:

Má – Èrè
Má-rè
Marere

Each gives us another dimension through which we may contemplate the nature of Olódùmarè.

“Má Èrè”

Má Èrè may be construed as knowing infinite blessings or the foundation of great fortune.

There is also another traditional interpretation associated with the boa and the natural phenomenon of the rainbow.

According to one Yoruba myth, the rainbow is associated with an enormous boa. The great reptile is said to discharge from within itself a substance that causes its surroundings to shine and glow, producing the reflection seen in the sky.

This phenomenon is associated with Òṣùmàrè.

Within this traditional interpretation, Òṣùmàrè is associated with something immensely valuable and with the capacity to induce monumental riches, prosperity, success and wealth.

The relationship between Òṣùmàrè and Olódùmarè will be explained later in the course of our study.

“Má Rè”

The expression Má Rè may also signify:

that which is immovable,
that which possesses strength and balance,
that which does not wander,
that which does not depart,
or that which remains constant.

When Oló + Odù + Marè are brought together, the name Olódùmarè may therefore signify the Supreme Energy or Supreme Power possessing grandiose qualities and remaining:

unchangeable, stable, immovable, reliable, constant, dependable and trustworthy.

OLÓDÙMARÈ AS SUPREME ROYAL AUTHORITY

The word Olódùmarè may also be understood as the entity combining Odù and Àrè.

In this interpretation, Àrè represents supreme royalty—the symbol of royal authority, the supreme crown, or the supreme head worthy of wearing the highest royal crown.

Olódùmarè therefore becomes the Infinite Energy and Supreme Entity who possesses not only authority, but the unique royal crown that can fit no other head except that of the Supreme Being.

Olódùmarè is the Head, Overlord and Supreme Authority over everything in Heaven, on Earth and throughout all levels of existence.

He or She is unique beyond human comprehension.

Great in majesty.

Full of honour.

Full of knowledge.

Full of wisdom.

Full of power.

Olódùmarè is the One who is absolutely perfect in quality and complete in all things.

And although we attempt to understand Olódùmarè through language, Odù, theology, tradition and spiritual wisdom, the complete nature of the Supreme Authority remains greater than what the ordinary human mind can fully comprehend.

Therefore we offer reverence:

“Ìbà Olódùmarè Agotun Ọba,
Atẹ́ni lẹ́gbẹ́lẹ́gbẹ́, f’orí ṣe apẹ̀jì omi.”

Meaning:

“Obeisance to You, Olódùmarè,
the Supreme King and Leader, superior in majesty,
who spreads the great mat and uses His head as a fountain of water.”

Ìbà Olódùmarè.

May the wisdom, authority, light and blessings of Olódùmarè continue to illuminate our understanding and guide us at all levels of existence.

Àṣẹ.