Ala (also known as
Ani,
Ana,
Ale, and
Ali in varying
Igbo dialects) is the female
Alusi (deity) of the earth, morality, fertility and creativity in
Odinani. She is the most important Alusi in the Igbo pantheon. In Odinani, Ala rules over the
underworld, and holds the deceased ancestors in her womb. Her name literally translates to 'Ground' in the Igbo language, denoting her powers over the earth and her status as the ground itself. Ala is considered the highest Alusi in the Igbo pantheon. Ala's husband is
Amadioha, the sky deity.