The Oguns in Umbanda: Spiritual Warriors and Healers
The Guardians of Oguns: Strength, Protection, and Justice In the mystical realms of Umbanda, the Oguns, often referred to as the Caboclos de Aço (Steel Caboclos), emerge like sentinels of iron and spirit. The Oguns guard with unwavering courage, discipline, and protection. They channel the indomitable force of the Orishá Ogún, the Orishá of metal, war, forge, and technology. These spirits […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]