MythsOrishásPlantsPlants

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 with a range of myths and rituals. The botanical Latin name of the Peregun plant is Dracaena fragrans. This name is derived from the Greek words „drakon“ (dragon) and „fragrans“ (fragrant). The name refers to the plant’s long, narrow leaves resembling dragon tails and its strong, sweet scent. In German, it is colloquially referred to as the Drachenbaum (dragon tree), Drachlilie (dragon lily), or Pfefferbaum (pepper tree). However, in Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, the plant is referred to as Peregun.

„Pèrègún Wá Lo Rèé Pe Ajé Tèmi Wá L’át’òde Òrun“
„Pèrègún, now go and call my riches from the beyond.“

Pèrègún, whose name is an abbreviation of the verb „PÈ,“ meaning „to call,“ combined with the word „EGÚN,“ meaning „spirit,“ „ancestor,“ etc. It becomes clear that this plant serves the purpose of „calling spirits“ (invoking), and merely uttering its name functions as a magical incantation! The wisdom of our Yoruba ancestors who devised this wordplay: If Pèrègún can call spirits, it can also call wealth. Pèrègún is the plant that guides and protects the Iyawo (novice). The plant is born with the Orixá, takes part in the burning of Efun (white chalk), and accompanies the novices until their name day. Another interpretation derives the word Peregun from the Yoruba language of West Africa, but with a different meaning. It literally means „the one who cleanses the world.“ The word is composed of „pe“ (cleanse) and „gun“ (world). In Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, Peregun is thus seen as a plant that can cleanse the world of negative energies and influences. The plant is used in various rituals to bring protection, purification, and healing. Here are some examples of the use of the word Peregun in Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé:

  • „Aperegun“: This term means „the one who carries Peregun.“ It is used to refer to people who carry or use the Peregun plant.
  • „Operegun“: This term means „the one who waters Peregun.“ It is used to refer to people who care for and water the Peregun plant.
  • „Iperegun“: This term means „the power of Peregun.“ It is used to denote the spiritual power of the Peregun plant. So, the word Peregun is an important term in Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé. It signifies a sacred plant associated with the major Orixás and the ability to cleanse the world of negative energies and influences.

The Peregun plant is considered the most popular plant in Candomblé temples (the Afro-Brazilian cult). It is used in a variety of applications and is essential for composing Àgbo (a cleansing and liturgical bath made from leaves and other ritual elements), baths, Sacudimentos (cleansing), remedies, magic, etc. It is a „gun“ plant (a plant that excites). It is male and associated with the Earth element. Its main connection to Òsun arises from the fact that water accumulates in its trunk. Not for nothing is one of the common names for this plant „Pau d’Água“ (Water Tree). Therefore, it is a plant that, although associated with the Earth element, has a strong connection to the Water element. Many remedies are made with Peregun, both to invoke and attain luck (àwúre oríire) and to please the witches (ìyónú ìyámi). As a „gun“ plant that excites, it has the power to induce the trance state. That’s why it is the first plant used in the àgbo ìgbèrè (initiation bath). Not a few see „gun“ as meaningful for the name of the plant for this reason.

MYTHS ABOUT PEREGUN

In the Afro-Brazilian religions of Ifá, Candomblé, and Santería, there are several myths about and involving Peregun. Here are some examples:

In one myth, it is told that Peregun was created by the Orixás, the deities of Afro-Brazilian religions. The Orixás wanted to create a plant that would protect them from evil. They chose Peregun because it is a strong and resilient plant. Peregun was thus associated with the power of good and light. The mythological creation of Peregun tells that all the Orixás came together to create a plant that would bring protection, purification, and healing. Each Orixá was assigned a role or domain associated with the plant.

  • Ogum, the Orixá of iron and war, is the patron of Peregun. He is responsible for protecting the plant from harm.
  • Ossaim, the Orixá of plants and healing, is the creator of Peregun. He is responsible for healing and nourishing the plant.
  • Oxalá, the Orixá of light and creation, is the father of Peregun. He is responsible for creating and nourishing the plant.
  • Oxum, the Orixá of love, beauty, and water, is the mother of Peregun. She is responsible for filling the plant with love and beauty.
  • Iansã, the Orixá of wind and war, is Ogum’s consort. She is responsible for filling the plant with energy and strength.
  • Exú, the Orixá of gates and transitions, is the guardian of Peregun. He is responsible for protecting the plant from negative energies.
  • Yemanjá, the Orixá of the sea and motherhood, is the queen of Peregun. She is responsible for filling the plant with love and protection.
  • Xangô, the Orixá of thunder and fire, is sometimes associated with Peregun. He is responsible for filling the plant with strength and power.
  • Nana Buruku, the Orixá of death and fertility, is sometimes associated with Peregun. She is responsible for filling the plant with wisdom and understanding.
  • Ibeji, the Orixás of twins, are sometimes associated with Peregun. They are responsible for filling the plant with joy and happiness.
  • The assignment of Orixás to the individual domains of Peregun is not always straightforward. In some versions of the mythology, different Orixás are named. The mythological creation of Peregun shows that the plant is considered a sacred one in Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, closely associated with the major Orixás.

The mythological creation of Peregun highlights its significance as a sacred plant in Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, closely associated with the major Orixás, or deities.

In another myth, it’s told that Peregun serves to protect the human soul and is used in various rituals to safeguard people’s health and well-being. According to the mythology of Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, Peregun represents the human soul. This is beautifully illustrated in the story of Ogum and Oxum. Ogum and Oxum were young lovers who had to meet in secret, as their father, the Orixá Oxalá, disapproved of their relationship. One day, as Oxalá approached them on a path, Oxum continued walking while Ogum hid in the bushes to avoid being seen. Oxalá was furious that Oxum had ignored him and struck her, leaving her wounded and abandoned in the forest. Feeling hurt and alone, Oxum prayed to Ossaim, the Orixá of plants and healing. Ossaim heard her prayers and appeared before her, gifting her a Peregun leaf, assuring her it would heal her soul. Oxum used the Peregun leaf to tend to her wounds, and they miraculously healed, restoring her strength and health. She reunited with Ogum, shared her experience, and they soon married. This story beautifully portrays how Peregun can heal the human soul. It’s regarded as a sacred plant closely linked to the major Orixás.

In another myth, Peregun is associated with Ogun, the deity of war and metal. Ogun is said to have created Peregun from the blood of a fallen warrior. Ogun is often depicted with a steel sword adorned with Peregun leaves, symbolizing the strength and protection Peregun provides. This myth has two versions:

  • Version 1: Ogun, the Orixá of iron, war, and protection, was a formidable warrior but also impulsive. He engaged in a heated battle with another Orixá and was gravely wounded, losing much blood. Desperate and near death, Ogun witnessed a miraculous transformation: his spilled blood turned into a small tree, radiating positive energy. Ogun named it Peregun and learned its healing and protective secrets. Peregun became an essential plant in Yoruba religion, symbolizing strength, protection, and healing.
  • Version 2: In Yoruba religion, Ogun, the Orixá of iron, war, and protection, came to the aid of a group of people under attack by demons. After defeating the demons with his sword, the people asked Ogun for protection against future attacks. Ogun created Peregun from his own blood and instructed them to cultivate it around their homes and bodies. Peregun indeed shielded them from the demons, and since then, it’s been revered as a sacred plant, offering protection and prosperity.

In another myth, Peregun is linked to the Orixá Oxóssi, the deity of hunting and nature. Oxóssi is often depicted with a bow and arrow adorned with Peregun leaves, symbolizing the protection of nature and its inhabitants. Oxóssi, the Orixá of hunting, the forest, and health, once came to the aid of hunters attacked by demons. He defeated the demons with his arrows and gifted the hunters Peregun, instructing them to cultivate it for protection. Peregun proved effective, and it has since been venerated as a sacred plant that shields against harm and brings prosperity.

Peregun also holds a connection with Osanyin, the deity of medicinal plants. In some versions, Osanyin is said to provide Peregun as a healing plant for various ailments. Another version tells the story of Ossain, who was possessed by a demon, causing harm to people. Obatala intervened by sending his son, Obaluaye, who presented Ossain with Peregun. Consuming it freed Ossain from the demon’s possession, and he subsequently used Peregun for healing and protection.

Peregun made a pact with „Ajé“, the female forces or „witches,“ for its arrival in Àiyé (Earth or the physical world, parallel to Orun). According to Ifá, Peregun needed to help humanity to attain happiness by forming a pact with „Aje“ and sharing its fortune. Peregun agreed to this pact but required someone to bring it to Àiyé. Seeking guidance from Ifá again, Peregun was directed to find „Ògún,“ as he frequently traveled to Àiyé. „Ògún“ agreed to carry Peregun to Àiyé on the condition that Peregun’s fortune would benefit everyone. Thus, Peregun became renowned and sought after by all in Àiyé.

These captivating myths demonstrate Peregun’s revered role in these religions, signifying protection, healing, and the sharing of good fortune.

Cuban Myths

Now let’s dive into these fascinating Cuban myths from Santería related to Peregun:

Peregun and the Emergence of Santería: In this myth, Peregun played a crucial role in the origins of Santería. It’s said that during the time of slavery, Yoruba slaves from Africa were brought to Cuba, carrying their religious practices, Santería, with them. Slavery was an incredibly harsh period for Yoruba slaves, where they were oppressed and exploited. Practicing their religion became a clandestine act.

One day, a Yoruba slave was caught by their owners while performing a Santería ritual. They were tortured and killed, leading to shock and anger among the Yoruba slaves. They knew they needed protection. Gathering together, they eventually decided to use a plant that could offer them safety. Peregun was their choice because of its strength and resilience. It could defend itself and shield against harm. Yoruba slaves began incorporating Peregun into their Santería rituals, believing it would protect them from their owners and malevolent forces.

Peregun and the Orishas: This myth explores Peregun’s connection with the Orishas, the deities of Santería. Peregun is considered a sacred plant created by the Orishas, a gift to humanity. Each Orisha shares a unique bond with Peregun. Ogum, the Orisha of war and metal, is especially close to Peregun. He’s often depicted with a steel sword adorned with Peregun leaves. Oxóssi, the Orisha of hunting and nature, is similarly connected and is often depicted with a bow and arrow embellished with Peregun leaves.

Peregun and Initiation: In this myth, Peregun plays a vital role in the initiation process of Santería. The initiation into Santería is known to be a long and challenging journey. Aspirants must grasp the teachings of Santería and practice its rituals. Peregun is instrumental during initiation. Aspirants are washed and anointed with Peregun leaves, wearing Peregun necklaces and bracelets. They believe that Peregun helps them endure the initiation process and become full-fledged members of the Santería community.

Vodou Myths

Now, let’s explore some myths from Vodou involving Peregun:

One of the most renowned myths tells the story of Peregun’s creation, mirroring the Candomblé and Santería origin myth. In this version, Peregun is said to have been created by the Loas, the deities of Vodou, to protect against evil. Peregun was chosen for its robust and resistant nature and became associated with the power of goodness and light.

Another myth associates Peregun with the Loa Ogun. In this tale, Ogun, a great warrior always ready to fight for good, was attacked by an evil spirit. Ogun was in danger of being defeated when Peregun intervened. Peregun grew around Ogun, creating a protective shield that the evil spirit couldn’t breach. With Peregun’s help, Ogun emerged victorious, demonstrating the triumph of good over evil.

These myths reveal that in Vodou, Peregun is regarded as a sacred plant associated with a range of positive attributes, serving as a guardian for people, nature, and the Loas. There are some differences between the myths and rituals of Peregun in Vodou compared to the traditions of Santería and Candomblé.

In Santería and Candomblé, Peregun is often closely associated with the Orixás Ogum and Oxóssi. In Vodou, Peregun is linked to various Loas, including:

  • Yemanjá, the Loa of the sea.
  • Erzulie, the Loa of love and beauty.
  • Agwe, the Loa of water.

In Vodou, there’s also a myth connecting Peregun with the Loa Erzulie. In this story, Erzulie, a beautiful and wealthy woman, was pursued by an evil spirit intent on killing her. Peregun once again appeared, creating a protective shield around Erzulie, preventing the evil spirit from reaching her. Erzulie escaped the malevolent spirit and saved her life, further emphasizing Peregun’s role as a guardian in Vodou.

The Role of Peregun

Purposes

Peregun serves various purposes in Afro-Brazilian religions. It is used to:

  1. Provide protection against evil forces.
  2. Promote health and well-being.
  3. Attract love and happiness.
  4. Cleanse and bless rituals.

Methods of Use

Peregun can be employed in several ways, such as:

  1. In potions, ointments, and incense blends.
  2. During ritual dances and ceremonies.
  3. Within protective amulets known as „Patuás.“

Associated Rituals

Within Afro-American traditions, numerous rituals are connected to Peregun. One common ritual is the Peregun ceremony, where Peregun is utilized to invoke protection and prosperity. Typically, a priest or priestess conducts this ceremony.

Another ritual associated with Peregun is the Ogun ceremony, where Peregun is used to honor Ogun, often led by an Ogun priest or priestess.

In Cuba and Brazil, Peregun plays a vital role in various rituals, including:

  1. Initiation – Peregun is used to protect and prepare newcomers for initiation into Santería or Candomblé. Initiation candidates are bathed and anointed with Peregun leaves, and they wear Peregun necklaces and bracelets. Believers hold that Peregun helps newcomers navigate the initiation process and become full-fledged members of the religious community.
  2. Purification – Peregun is used to cleanse and bless spaces and objects. Peregun leaves are burned or boiled in water, and the resulting smoke or water is used to purify the area or item. Believers hold that Peregun drives away negative energies and opens the space or object to positive energies.
  3. Healing – Peregun is employed to treat illnesses and other ailments. The leaves are crushed and boiled in water, and the resulting tea is consumed or applied to the affected area. Believers believe that Peregun supports the body’s healing processes and alleviates pain.
  4. Protection – Peregun is used to safeguard individuals and objects from harm. Peregun necklaces, bracelets, and amulets are worn to shield the wearer from malevolent forces. Peregun leaves are also hung in homes and businesses to protect them from harm.
  5. Additional Rituals – Peregun is utilized in various other rituals, including:
  • Honoring the Orishas.
  • Fulfilling wishes.
  • Attracting love and happiness.

Peregun holds a significant place in Afro-American traditions, revered as a sacred plant intimately linked with a plethora of myths and rituals.

Cleansing Ritual – An Example

In Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, Peregun is regarded as a sacred plant that brings protection, purification, and healing. In a cleansing ritual using Peregun leaves, the leaves are employed to remove negative energies and influences from the body and the space.

Preparation

For the ritual, you will need the following materials:

  • 7 (or 3) Peregun leaves
  • 1 glass of water
  • 1 white candle

7 Steps to perform the ritual: The Execution

Here’s how to perform the ritual:

  1. Place the glass of water on a table and position the candle in front of it.
  2. Hold the Peregun leaves in your hand and affirm your intention to use them for the cleansing ritual.
  3. Recite a prayer or invocation to call upon the Loas or Orixás associated with protection and purification.
  4. Rub the front side of the Peregun leaves over your body, starting from your head and ending at your feet.
  5. Rub the back side of the Peregun leaves over your body, starting at your feet and ending at your head.
  6. Place the Peregun leaves into the glass of water.
  7. Allow the candle to burn.

SYMBOLISM OF PEREGUN

The front of the Peregun leaf symbolizes the positive energy flowing into the body, while the back of the leaf represents the negative energy being removed.

Symbolism and Effects

The number 3 holds sacred significance in many religions, symbolizing the Trinity. In this ritual, it represents the trinity of body, mind, and soul. The cleansing ritual with 3 Peregun leaves aims to eliminate negative energies and influences from the body and space, bringing protection, clarity, and peace to the practitioner.

The number 7 is considered sacred in various religions, symbolizing completeness and perfection. In this ritual, it signifies the completion of the cleansing process.

Application

The ritual can be performed for oneself or on behalf of others. It can also be conducted in a space to cleanse it. Here’s an example of a prayer or formula you can use for the ritual:

Prayer or Formula

„I invoke the Loas and Orixás associated with protection and purification. I ask you to rid my body, mind, and soul of negative energies and influences. I wish to live with peace, clarity, and joy.“

Song (from the Sasanyin ritual)

Pèrègún alára gígún o
Pèrègún alára gígún o
Oba kò ní jé o roró okán
Pèrègún alára gígún o
Pèrègún gbà agbára tuntun

Peregun has an excited body
Peregun has an excited body
King, do not let heart problems occur
Peregun has an excited body
Peregun grants new strength

Another song that is also used for the Orishá Ossain:

Pèrègún a lá we titun o
Pèrègún a lá we titun o
Gbogbo pèrègún a lá we lessé
À àjá lé o pèrègún lá to ni o
Ewè pèrègún lá to ni o
A n’sé irúnmolè a ewè àjè bi imolè
A ewè kí a jé
A wá ku rò yá wá lorí òkun
Pèrègún lá to ni o

Peregun, the fresh leaves, are treated with respect.
All children of the Holy One, respect the fresh leaves of Peregun.
We play the Aja, in reverence to Peregun, who holds great power.
The leaves of Peregun, possess great power.
From the leaves of Peregun, a enchanted woman was born, giving this plant the entire power of nature.
We salute its leaves, bringing the spirits of darkness, to a place beyond the sea. Peregun holds great power.

The Front and Back of the Leaf

In Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, the front of the Peregun leaf holds a positive significance. It symbolizes the positive energy flowing into the body. Conversely, the back of the leaf is associated with negative energies, symbolizing the negative energy being removed from the body. During a cleansing ritual with Peregun leaves, the front of the leaf is first rubbed over the body. This is done to allow positive energy to flow into the body. Subsequently, the back of the leaf is rubbed over the body to remove negative energy.

The symbolism of the front and back of the Peregun leaf can also be interpreted in other ways. The front of the leaf can be associated with the spirit or soul of the individual, while the back of the leaf can be linked to the body or the material existence of the person. In this sense, the cleansing ritual with Peregun leaves can be understood as a process of purifying and harmonizing the body, mind, and soul. The positive energy of the Peregun leaf is intended to cleanse and heal the spirit and soul of the individual, while the negative energy of the leaf is meant to free the body from burdens and blockages.

CONCLUSION AND OUTLOOK

In Vodou, Santeria, and Candomblé, Peregun stands as a testament to the enduring human desire for connection with the divine and the eternal quest for protection, healing, and prosperity. Its name resonates with the call of the spirit world, a call that has echoed through generations and continues to guide practitioners on their spiritual journeys. As we reflect on the profound significance of Peregun in Afro-Brazilian religions, we are reminded of the enduring power of faith, ritual, and the profound connection between the earthly and the divine. Peregun, with its storied history and sacred symbolism, serves as a reminder that the call of the spirit can bridge any divide and bring blessings from the heavens to the earth. In closing, we recognize that „Pèrègún Ní Í Pe Irúnmolé L’át’òde Òrun W’áyé.“ Peregun indeed calls the gods from the heavens to the earth, and in doing so, it beckons blessings, protection, and healing to all who seek its sacred embrace.

Note from the author

Stay tuned for our ongoing series on the wisdom of the Odu Ifá, Iroko, and Kitembo, as we continue to explore these timeless teachings and their application in the modern world of African spirituality. To continue this spiritual journey and delve deeper into the fascinating world of Yoruba religion and its diaspora, I warmly invite you to subscribe to my NEWSLETTER. Here, you’ll receive regular insights, stories, and updates that will further enrich your understanding and connection to these ancient traditions.

Additionally, if my journey through Kitembo’s and Iroko’s world has sparked your interest, I encourage you to read my books, which delve even deeper into these subjects, particularly the enchanting myths. They are available on AMAZON in four languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, offering a multicultural perspective on these rich traditions.

Lastly, don’t forget to connect with me on Instagram at @daily_ifa_orisha. It’s a vibrant community where we celebrate and honour the Orishás daily, and I would love for you to be a part of it.

Thank you for accompanying me on this enlightening journey. May the blessings of the Orishás, be with you always, nurturing and guiding your path. Until we meet again, stay connected, stay curious, and continue to explore the profound depths of our spiritual heritage.

Asé ó.

 Tilo Plöger de Àjàgùnnà

Schreibe einen Kommentar

Deine E-Mail-Adresse wird nicht veröffentlicht. Erforderliche Felder sind mit * markiert