Santeria
The word “santeria” was used by the Spanish to mock the seemingly excessive devotion to the Catholic saints shown by the slaves from Africa. Their masters did not want them to worship their African gods, so they pretended they were practicing Christianity by praying to the saints, while remaining faithful to their animistic beliefs. These […]
He is a major orisha who acts as a messenger to Obatala and Olofin. Orula relies on him to obtain the power and knowledge needed for divination. He is the one who guards the head of believers. He represents life and the stability of the initiated. This orisha does not have necklaces. He is received […]
He is a hunter, an explorer and the protector of warriors. He is closely tied to the orisha Obatala, whose translator he is. Oshosi guides human beings, dictates the rules they must follow and how they should act in society. Oggun, who rules over metal, always accompanies Oshosi, the hunter. They live in the same […]
He is the god of iron, war, and work. Oggun clears all paths with his machete after Eleggua has opened them. He personifies violence, cunning, creativity, and integrity. He is the only orisha that has the right to take life from human beings. He is violent and malicious. Oggun is the master of metals and […]
He is the master of the paths, crossroads and gates of this world. Known as Elegba or Eleggua, he is the god of luck, but also of accidents. He is found at the intersection between humanity and the divine, and is the intermediary between Olorun and human beings, whose offerings and messages he takes to […]