Guardians of Transformation and the Spiritual Threshold
Exus and Pomba-Giras in Umbanda hold a unique and often misunderstood role. They walk the winding threshold where spirit meets matter, in the sacred twilight between shadow and light. As guardians of the crossroads—where choices become change and truth must be faced—they embody transformation itself. With laughter or fury, grace or grit, they move the divine law into action. In their presence, illusions fall away, and clarity rises like smoke toward the stars.
Who Are the Exus and Pomba-Giras?
Exus and Pomba-Giras are spiritual entities of transformation, communication, and boundary-breaking. In their distinct forms, Exus often appear as commanding male figures tied to justice, protection, and dynamic energy, while Pomba-Giras embody radiant feminine power, rooted in love, sensuality, and emotional wisdom.
While they echo the symbolism of the Orisha Eshú—through their connection to movement, communication, and the crossroads—the Exus of Umbanda are distinct. They are evolved spirits engaged in mutual spiritual growth, unlike the primordial force that the Orishá Eshú represents.
Together, Exus and Pomba-Giras walk with deep spiritual intelligence, courage, and fierce dedication to truth and transformation.
Their Domain: The Crossroads of Experience
Just as the serene vibration of the Pretos-Velhos, the grounded wisdom of the Caboclos, and the joyful clarity of the Erês guide seekers, Exus and Pomba-Giras lead us through crossroads—where desire, conflict, and spiritual growth intersect in decisive moments..
They work where the spiritual and human experience meet in their rawest forms: crossroads, desire, and choice—where complexity isn’t hidden, but transformed.
Misconceptions and Truths: The Left Is Not Evil
Exus and Pomba-Giras are often linked to the so-called “left line” of Umbanda—a term that has caused many misconceptions. Some see this path as negative or threatening. But in truth, these entities do not represent negativity in a moral sense. They work from the unseen to restore clarity and balance.
While the “right line” often nurtures and heals gently, Exus and Pomba-Giras face life where it’s most raw. They step into conflict, desire, and pain—to reveal, protect, and transform.
They expose illusion, clear blocked paths, and remove what no longer serves. Where others soothe, they awaken. Where others comfort, they challenge.
In their domain, healing begins with clarity. Evolution begins with courage. Their path is not lesser—only different. And for many, it is exactly what’s needed.
The Hierarchy of Execution: Law in Action
Spiritual Law in Motion
In Umbanda, light must be executed. Spiritual law cannot remain an idea—it must be lived. For this reason, Exus and Pomba-Giras carry this out. As executors of divine law, they turn spiritual truth into experience.
Their actions focus on transformation. They move energy, open and close spiritual paths, and test intentions—not through morality, but through cosmic alignment.
Karma and the Balance of Forces
Exus and Pomba-Giras manage balance. In particular, they carry out karma—not as punishment, but as spiritual correction. While Hinduism and Buddhism describe karma as a process where past actions shape future outcomes, Umbanda places greater emphasis on the opportunities karma presents. Rather than determining destiny, karma in Umbanda reveals challenges and lessons that invite growth. Through these situations, individuals are called to take responsibility and actively transform themselves—aligning with spiritual truth and evolving in the process.
As a result, they ensure that what we send out returns. They guide people through consequences, helping them realign with truth.
In their hands, karma becomes a force for healing. They do not pass judgment—they respond. They do not condemn—they correct. Through this, they lead souls into a dance of awareness and renewal.
Exus as Guardians of the Terreiro
In most Umbanda terreiros, Exus serve as the primary protectors and messengers. Their role extends far beyond rituals—they uphold the spiritual structure and safety of the house. It’s often said that without Exu, nothing can be done.
Each terreiro usually has a guardian Exu who works closely with the the Pai or Mãe de Santo—also known as Zelador or Zeladora. This person serves as the spiritual leader of the house, much like a priest or priestess, and works hand in hand with the guiding Caboclo—who leads the terreiro from the spiritual side. Together, they form a triad that directs and sustains the spiritual current of the house
How Exus and Pomba-Giras Manifest in Umbanda Rituals
Exus and Pomba-Giras usually appear toward the end of a gira—a spiritual gathering in the terreiro—or during giras held in their honor. These moments are intense and charged, where transformation, protection, and truth take center stage.
Exus
Exus ground the ritual space with bold, magnetic energy. Their presence brings protection and movement. They speak with confidence and humor, often sharp and revealing, using their words to realign.
They work with cachaça (Brazilian spirit from sugarcane), red wine, whiskey, and cigars, and often wear capes, top hats, canes, and staffs. With pemba (ritual chalk), they draw symbols to open or seal energetic paths.
Pomba-Giras
Pomba-Giras enter with fiery sensuality and emotional depth. Their gestures are fluid and magnetic, and they speak with poetic boldness.
They work with red wine, port wine, sparkling wine, cigarettes, and adorn themselves with scarves, fans, and mirrors. They use pemba and especially roses as instruments of energetic transformation.
Though their focus differs, Exus and Pomba-Giras both speak the language of truth. Their work is not gentle—it is real. They confront, protect, cleanse, and guide those who are ready to grow. Moreover, they inspire courage in facing spiritual truths.
Archetypes and Spiritual Roles
Exu and Pomba-Gira archetypes in Umbanda encompass a wide range of spiritual roles. Names like Exu Tranca Ruas, Exu Marabô, Exu Tiriri, Maria Padilha, Sete Saias, and Rosa Vermelha represent specific functions and vibrations.
These aren’t fixed personalities, but energetic roles. One Exu Tranca Ruas may protect, another may heal emotional wounds or clear spiritual blockages. One Maria Padilha may guide love and relationships; another may confront illusions and restore self-worth.
Their form adapts to the lineage and spiritual need of the terreiro.
The Wind Rose: A Symbolic Map of Spiritual Function
Some Umbanda traditions use the Rosa dos Ventos—the Wind Rose—to explain their organization. This sacred compass links seven points to seven Orishas. Six are held by specific Exus, and the seventh by all Pomba-Giras:
Each point represents a function—opening, protecting, judging, transforming. Together, they form a balanced system that directs energy with precision.
The Wind Rose shows us that nothing remains static. Energy enters, passes through transformation, and emerges anew. Exus and Pomba-Giras don’t bring chaos—they work within divine order.
The Layers of the Spiritual Hierarchy
Below the seven Exus of the Wind Rose lies a layered hierarchy. Each main Exu guides seven others, who each guide seven more—expanding through seven levels. Consequently, this creates a vast network based on 7 + 7² + 7³ + 7⁴ + 7⁵ + 7⁶ + 7⁷ entities.
The top three levels reflect divine light. The fourth level guides and mirrors that light. Meanwhile, the lower three execute it—spirits who cleanse, protect, and move energy. This layered system reveals how spiritual forces flow and take form in Umbanda.
Celebrating and Honoring Exus in Umbanda
Exus are celebrated on June 13th, aligned with the feast day of Saint Anthony, the figure with whom the Orishá Eshú is traditionally syncretized. On this day, terreiros honor Exus through offerings, songs, and vibrant rituals that recognize their role as guardians of transformation, protection, and communication between worlds.
How to Greet Exus and Pomba-Giras
In Umbanda, greet Exus with Laroyê Exu!, and Pomba-Giras with Laroyê Pomba Gira! or “Exu is Mojubá”—each an expression of reverence and spiritual alignment. It’s also common to use the name Exu when greeting a Pomba-Gira, as both work within the same current.
A Final Thought: Truth, Justice, and the Power of Transformation
Exus and Pomba-Giras are not easy spirits—but they are essential. Where stagnation lingers, they bring motion. Where illusion hides, they bring fire.
They teach that spiritual growth doesn’t mean perfection—it means courage. They walk beside those who choose truth.
Have you ever talked with an Exu or Pomba-Gira—or felt their presence during a ritual? Share your reflections in the comments. Your voice deepens this sacred conversation.
Laroyê Exu! Laroyê Pomba Gira!
May they clear your roads, purify your heart, and protect your steps.
Ashé — until we meet again in the sacred circle of the crossroads.
Dive Deeper: See our Blog about What Is Umbanda? Origins, Beliefs, and Spiritual Practices, about The Oguns in Umbanda: Spiritual Warriors and Healers, and about The Enchanted Path of Ciganos and Ciganas in Umbanda
