Orishá Obatalá: The Peaceful Creator and Father of All Orishas
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ OBATALÁ – THE ORISHÁ FUNFUN Orishá Oshalá, also known as Obatalá, is one of the most revered and influential Orishas in Yoruba religious tradition and its diasporic expressions like Candomblé and Santería. Known as the father of all Orishas, Oshalá embodies wisdom, purity, peace, and the power of creation. This guide explores […]
Orishá Osanyin: The Healing Power of Leaves
INTRODUCTION TO THE ORISHA OF THE HEALING Ossaim, also known as Osanyin, Ossanha, Ossanhe, or Osain, is one of the most revered Orishás in Yoruba, Candomblé, and Santería traditions. As the Orishá of plants, herbs, and healing, he holds dominion over the natural world, harnessing the power of leaves for both medicinal and spiritual purposes. […]
Orishá Olokun: Guardian of the Ocean’s Depths
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ OLOKUN – THE FATHER OF YEMANJÁ Source: The Myths of Orishá Olokun – Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà Orishá Olokun, a powerful and revered Orisha in the Yoruba religion and its diasporic traditions like Candomblé and Santería, embodies the mysteries and vastness of the ocean’s depths. Known for his association with wealth, transformation, […]
Orishá Ogún: The Warrior and Owner of Iron
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ OGÚN – THE WARRIOR Source: The Myths of Orishá Ogun – Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà Orishá Ogún, known by various names such as Ogou or Oggun, is a prominent and powerful Orisha in the Yoruba religion and its diasporic counterparts like Santería and Vodou. Revered as the god of iron, technology, and […]
Orishá Odùduwa: Creator, King, and Cultural Architect
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ ODUDUWA – THE CREATOR OF YORUBÁ SOCIETY Source: Orishá Oduduwa – Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà Orishá Odùduwa, also known as Oduduwa or Oduduà, is a pivotal figure in Yoruba, Santeria, and other Afro-Caribbean religions. Revered as both a creator deity and a historical figure, Odùduwa’s multifaceted role has deeply influenced the spiritual […]
Women in Traditional Odu Ifá Divining: A New Perspective
INTRODUCTION In the rich and intricate world of Ifá, the ancient Yorùbá system of divination, the interpretation and practice of Odu Ifá have traditionally been viewed as the domain of men. This perspective has been reinforced by cultural norms and historical practices that have often positioned men as the primary custodians of this sacred knowledge. […]
Orishá Ibeji in Yoruba Mythology: Guardians of Duality and Fortune
INTRODUCTION TO THE TWIN ORISHÁ IBEJI (JIMAGUA) Source: The Myths of Orishá Ibeji – Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà In the rich tapestry of Yoruba mythology, the Ibeji, or twins, hold a unique and revered position. These dual deities are believed to embody the powerful forces of protection, fortune, and divine intervention. The Ibeji’s significance is […]
Understanding Egbe: A Deep Dive into Celestial Companions
INTRODUCTION TO THE CONCEPT OF EGBÉ – THE SPIRITUAL SOCIETY Egbe, often referred to as the Celestial Companions, holds a significant place in the Ifá Orishá traditions practiced in the diaspora, such as Ifá, Candomblé, and Santería. Understanding Egbe is essential for devotees as it connects the spiritual and earthly realms, impacting personal destiny and […]
Orishá Eshú: The Dynamic Messenger and Trickster
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ ESHÚ-LEGBÁ – THE ORISHÁ OF ALL CROSSROADS Source: The Myths of Orishá Eshú Legba – Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà Orishá Eshú, also known as Eleggua, Legba, or Eshú, is a prominent deity in the Yoruba religion and various Afro-diasporic traditions such as Santería, Vodou, and Candomblé. Eshu’s multifaceted nature makes him one […]
Understanding Ori: The Yoruba Concept of Selfhood
Based on Paper written By Lekan Balogun, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand Abstract: Rituals, although not scientifically linking cause and effect, produce functional results. The Yoruba understanding of Ori as a significant vehicle for confronting life underscores this reality. This article delves into the Yoruba concept of Ori, highlighting its role in self-perception and […]
The Legacy and Healing Power of Dr. Fritz in Spiritism
This Blog is about the Legacy and the Healing Power of Dr. Fritz. We will dive deep into Spiritism and the concept of spiritual healings through spiritual surgeries. We will connect Spiritism to other key Traditions in Brazil. You will learn about the key spirits working through their respective mediums. INTRODUCTION TO SPIRITISM AND DR. […]
The Magical Powers of Anointing Oils in African Traditions
INTRODUCTION TO SACRED OILS Throughout Africa’s rich and diverse cultures, anointing oils have played a vital role in spiritual practices for centuries.These potent concoctions, often infused with herbs, flowers, and other symbolic ingredients, are believed to possess a unique energy that can be used for various purposes. ANOINTING OILS: A LINK BETWEEN THE PHYSICAL AND THE SPIRITUAL REALMS Anointing oils […]
Exploring the African Roots of Vodou, Santería, Palo, Kimbanda, Candomblé, Umbanda, and Lukumi
INTRODUCTION African diasporic religions such as Vodou, Santería, Palo, Kimbanda, Candomblé, Umbanda, and Lukumi are intricate tapestries woven from the rich spiritual traditions of various African ethnic groups. Despite their geographic dispersion and cultural diversity, these religions share common historical roots in African ethnic groups from regions such as Angola, Benin, Nigeria, and the Congo. […]
Exploring Love and Duty: The Myth of Oshun and Shango in Yoruba Beliefs
OF FORBIDDEN LOVE AND SACRIFICIAL CHOICE: UNVEILING THE MYTH OF OSHUN AND SHANGÓ The Yoruba pantheon brims with tales of love, loss, and the delicate balance between desire and duty. The myth of Oshun, the goddess of love and sensuality, and Shango, the fiery deity of thunder, is a captivating example. It delves into the […]
Exploring Honor and Survival: The Moral Dilemma of Two Hunters in Ifá Mythology
THE TALE OF THE TWO HUNTERS: A STORY OF SURVIVAL AND HONOR In a deep, sprawling forest, two hunters, one young and the other old, ventured in search of game. They were skilled with their weapons and often struck their targets, yet capturing the wounded animals proved elusive. Each time they struck an elephant, it […]
Arrows of Wisdom: Exploring the Divine Hunter Oshóssi in Yoruba and Diaspora Traditions
WELCOME TO THE ENCHANTED FORESTS OF OSHÓSSI: THE HUNTER ORISHÁ OF WISDOM AND ABUNDANCE In the vibrant tapestry of Yoruba mythology and its diasporic expressions in Candomblé and Santería, the figure of Oshóssi stands out with profound significance. Known as the deity of hunting, Oshóssi is not merely an archer but a profound symbol of […]
From Musoni to Mpemba and Luvemba: Decoding the Bantu-Kongo Cycles of Time
INTRODUCTION The Bantu-Kongo time concept, deeply embedded within the cultural, spiritual, and cosmological practices of the Kongo people of West Central Africa, presents a complex, cyclical framework that contrasts sharply with the linear perspective commonly found in Western thought. This concept is not merely a way to measure chronological progression but is intrinsically tied to […]
The Role of Yorùbá Culture in Conflict De-escalation and Peace Maintenance
INTRODUCTION TO YORUBÁ CULTURE AND ITS ROLE IN PEACEKEEPING Yorùbá culture, deeply rooted in the traditions of southwest Nigeria, has been a subject of extensive study across sociology, history, cultural studies, and anthropology. The renowned scholar Arnold (1869) viewed culture as a driving force for “sweetness and light,” a sentiment echoed by others who see […]
Orishá Babalú-Ayé – Embracing Duality
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ BABALU AYE (OMOLU): THE VULCANIC ORISHÁ OF HEALTH Welcome to our exploration of the roles, myths and archetypes of the Orishá Babalú-Ayé, a complex and fascinating Orishá revered across various Yoruba and diasporic traditions, including Candomblé and Santería. Known by many names, such as Omolu, Obaluaye, and Sakpata, Babalú-Ayé embodies the dual […]
Unveiling the Sacred Nganga: The Art of Creating Palo Monte’s Spiritual Vessels
THE FOUNDATION OF NGANGA: BRIDGING WORLDS The Nganga stands at the crossroads of the physical and spiritual worlds in the Afro-Cuban religion of Palo Monte, embodying a profound connection to the African roots of its practitioners. This sacred vessel is not merely a container but a spiritual entity that is meticulously constructed to house a […]
The Mystical Power of Eggs in Iyá Mi Osorongá Worship
THE EGG: A SYMBOL OF FERTILITY IN RITUAL AND MYTH Within the rich tapestry of Ifá tradition, the egg occupies a central role as a potent symbol of fertility, intricately woven into the fabric of purification rituals, initiation ceremonies, Borí, and Èbós for both propitiation and defense. This emblem of life is not only pivotal […]
Mystery of Creation and Abundance: The Egg in Orishá Traditions
ABOUT THE EGG IN ORISHÁ IFÁ TRADITIONS In the rich tapestry of the Orishá traditions, including Santería, Candomblé, Palo, Umbanda, Vodou and others, symbols carry the weight of history, wisdom, and the sacred. Among these, the egg, in its simplicity and profundity, plays a pivotal role. This newsletter explores the egg’s significance, the myths that […]
Orishá Oshun: Goddess of Love, Beauty, and Fertility
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ OSHÚN: THE ORISHÁ OF THE FLOWING RIVERS Welcome to a journey through the sacred waters of spirituality, where the divine essence of Oshun flows with the grace of love, the allure of beauty, and the nurturing power of fertility. Orishá Oshún, the revered Orisha of the Yoruba religion, embodies the very heartbeat […]
Iwa Rere: Building Character the Yoruba Way
IWA RERE – GOOD CHARACTER This blog post delves into the Yoruba concept of “Iwa Rere,” which translates to “Good character.” It explores the importance of Iwa Rere in living a meaningful life and offers practical ways to cultivate these virtues in your daily routine. WHAT IS IWA RERE Iwa Rere goes beyond simply avoiding […]
Xeto marrumba xeto, xeto na Vizala, xeto á! – A salute and opening invocation
ABOUT THE EXPRESSION The phrase “Xeto Marumbaxeto, Xeto na Vizala, Xeto Á!” is a powerful and evocative greeting in the Afro-Brazilian religions of Candomblé and Umbanda. It is rich in symbolism and meaning, with multiple layers of interpretation that can vary depending on the specific context and tradition. (Note that X in Brazilian language is […]
How 3 Orishás Learned the True Value of Divination
A YORUBÁ MYTH ABOUT PATIENCE AND PATH TO WISDOM Introduction to the myth In the heart of Yoruba mythology lies a captivating tale about patience, dedication, and the true path to wisdom. This story, known as “The Path Where Elegbara, Shangó, And Ogún Wanted To Become Diviners,” unveils the ordeals faced by the powerful Orishas […]
Crafting the Sacred: A DIY Guide to Conducting the Ipade Ritual
ABOUT THE IPADE RITUAL Embarking on the journey to perform the Ipade ritual within the confines of a spiritual house (in Brazil often called Ile Ase or Terreiro), is a profound expression of devotion to the Orishá and Ifá traditions. The Ipade is an Opening Ritual for protection and spiritual guidance. This ritual is compulsory […]
The Sacred Candomblé Ritual of Ipade: An opening Ritual for Eshú and Iyami Orosongá
In the heart of the Afro-Brazilian religious tradition of Candomblé lies the sacred ritual of Ipade, an essential ceremonial practice that serves as a cornerstone for all major religious activities within this vibrant spiritual community. The Ipade ritual, deeply rooted in the Yoruba heritage, is a profound expression of faith, connecting practitioners with the divine […]
Destiny vs. Character: The Yoruba Myth That Reveals the Key to Your Potential
THE TALE OF ORI-ÒDE AND ORI-INÚ Deep within the wisdom of the Yoruba tradition lies a timeless tale about the intertwining of destiny and character. It’s a story that teaches us that while destiny sets our potential, it’s our inner character that determines whether we truly reach it. So, let’s dive into this fascinating myth […]
Creating Sacred Water: A Guide for Umbanda, Palo, and Spiritualism Practitioners
ABOUT THE SYNCRETISM OF THE HOLY WATER IN AFRO-AMERICAN SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS In the diverse world of spiritual practices, sacred water holds a special place, particularly in Umbanda, Palo, and some other Spiritualism traditions like Catimbó, Kardecism. These paths, though unique, share a common thread in their use of holy water for purification, protection, and blessings. […]
Exploring the Ritual of “Omi Tutu”: Why Do We Pour Water on the Street?
THE ROLE OF WATER IN AFRICAN-BRAZILIAN SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS Water holds a special place in African-Brazilian religions, playing a key role in numerous rituals. From the Ìpàdé ritual, where it’s used to calm the Ajé (female Orixás, also known as enchantresses), to the Águas de Oxalá ceremony, symbolizing the lustral cleansing of the “Egbé Ilé” (terreiro […]
Sacred Waters: Exploring the History and Significance of Holy Water in African Diaspora
A DROP OF THE DIVINE: THE HISTORY AND ROLE OF HOLY WATER From the ancient Egyptians to modern-day churches, water imbued with spiritual significance has captivated humanity for millennia. This simple element, transformed by ritual and belief, transcends its physical form to become holy water, a symbol of purification, protection, and divine presence. But how […]
Bridging Philosophies of Respect: Insights from Ifá and Kantian Philosophy
INTRODUCTION Welcome to a journey through the realms of philosophy and mythology, where the principles of respect intertwine in the teachings of Immanuel Kant and the wisdom of Ifá, a divination system rooted in Yoruba religion. In this exploration, we will delve into how respect is conceptualized and enacted in both Western philosophy and Ifá’s […]
Orishá Nanan Buruku: Orishá of Creation, Wisdom, and Nature
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ NANAN BURUKU – THE ANCIENT MOTHER Welcome to our exploration of Nanan Buruku, a deity revered in various African and Afro-diasporic religions such as Vodou and Candomblé. Known by names like Nanan Buluku, Nanan Burukú, and Nanan Bukuulu, she stands as a towering figure in these spiritual traditions, often portrayed as the […]
Where Elegbá (Eshú) lost an Eye
A YORUBÁ MYTH FORM THE SACRED CORPUS OF ODU IFA OGUNDA IROSUNA Elegbá (Eshú) was walking on his way and arrived in a land that was crossed by a river, naturally leading to another land on the other side. The first land was very firm but lacking in everything. Its inhabitants wanted to have everything […]
Reflecting on Plato and Orunmilá: A Philosophical Journey
HARMONY OF THOUGHT: UNVEILING THE CONVERGENCE OF PLATO’S PHILOSOPHY AND THE SACRED ODU IFÁ Introduction to Plato and Ifá In the vast tapestry of human thought, certain threads of wisdom transcend cultural boundaries and historical epochs, weaving an intricate pattern of universal truths. Plato’s seminal philosophical contributions and the ancient Yoruba divination system, the Odu […]
Fortune’s Path: A Tale of Luck and Destiny
A TALE ABOUT LUCK AND DESTINY FROM THE SACRED CORPUS OF ODU IFÁ IROSUN IWORI In the realm of inspiring stories, “Fortune’s Path” from the Sacred Odu Ifá Irosun Iwori stands as a testament to the power of faith and the mysterious ways in which fortune unfolds. This captivating tale begins with a man besieged […]
The Enigmatic Tale of Agayú and Oduduwa: A Cuban Myth of Transformation and Power
TRANSFORMATION AND POWER IN ODU IFÁ IROSUN IWORI In the rich tapestry of Cuban mythology, the story of Agayú and Oduduwa from Odu Ifá Irosun Iwori stands out as a captivating tale, intertwining themes of transformation, power, and wisdom. This myth, deeply rooted in the spiritual lore of the land, unfolds along the banks of […]
Embarking on a Journey: Discovering the Sacred Afro-American Traditions
Greetings, dear readers, Mo Júbà! Allow me to introduce myself as Baba Tilo de Àjàgùnnà, a humble seeker of wisdom in the Afro-American traditions. I am honored to be part of this diverse and rich tapestry of cultures, having been initiated into the Brazilian Ifá traditions of Candomblé, Umbanda, and Catimbó. My lineage traces back […]
Peregun: The Sacred Plant Bridging the Worlds of Orisha and Loa
STARTING WITH A QUOTE FROM THE SACRED CORPUS OF ODU IFÁ “Pèrègún Ní Í Pe Irúnmolé L’át’òde Òrun W’áyé.” Peregun calls the gods from the heavens to the earth. BACKGROUND In the Afro-Brazilian religions of Ifá, Candomblé, and Santería, the plant Peregun plays a significant role. It is considered a sacred plant and is associated […]
Understanding Time in African Spirituality: Insights from Odu Ifá, Iroko, and Kitembo
AN AFRO-BRAZILIAN PROVERB ABOUT TIME “O Tempo dá,O Tempo tira,O Tempo passa,E a folha vira.” “Time gives,Time takes,Time passes,And the leaf turns.” (Proverb Candomblé) A FUSION OF AFRICAN SPIRITUALITY AND WESTERN PHILOSOPHY In the realm of spiritual and philosophical thought, time has been a subject of contemplation and debate across cultures. While African spiritual traditions […]
Orishá Kitembo and Iroko: Time-Honored Deities
ABOUT ORISHÁ KITEMBO AND IROKO In the rich mosaic of African spiritual heritage, two figures command awe and respect: Kitembo, known as Tempo in certain Afro-Brazilian traditions, and Iroko, a cornerstone of the Yoruba religion. These deities, deeply ingrained in the rituals of Brazilian Candomblé and beyond, stand as timeless emblems of the natural world […]
Orishá Yemanjá: The Mother of Waters and the Sea
INTRODUCTION TO ORISHÁ YEMANJÁ – THE MOTHER OF THE SEA AND OF ALL ORI Let’s dive into the captivating realm of Orishá Yemanjá, a deity of profound significance in the Yoruba religion and its diasporic manifestations such as Candomblé, Santería, and Umbanda. Yemanjá, also known as Yemoja, Iemanjá, or Yemaya, is a goddess intertwined with […]
The Origins and First Steps of Brazilian Candomblé
THE PRE-PHASES OF CANDOMBLÉ In almost all introductory books on Brazilian Candomblé, the history of “Engenho da Casa Branca” is described as the origin story of Candomblé. This is probably correct in the sense that it was with this Terreiro that a clear organization emerged, gaining public recognition relatively quickly. However, this portrayal of history […]