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 spelled like SH).
MEANING OF „MARRUMBAXETO“
The word „marrumbaxeto“ (spelled marrumbasheto) has a complex and multifaceted meaning in Candomblé and Umbanda, encompassing several key concepts:
- A greeting: „Marrumbá“ is a greeting used in various Candomblé nations, such as Angola and Congo. „Xeto“ means „my“ in the Bantu dialect. Together, they form „Marrumbá xeto,“ which can be translated as „my greeting“ or „my respect.“
- An expression of strength and power: „Marrumbá“ can also be interpreted as an expression of strength, power, and vitality. In Umbanda, „marrumbaxeto“ is often used in „pontos cantados“ (ritualistic songs) to invoke the strength and energy of the Caboclos (spirits of the forest, owner of the land, the Indians).
- A reference to ancestry: The term „marrumbá“ is also connected to ancestry and the connection with the spirits of the ancestors. In Umbanda, „marrumbaxeto“ can be seen as a way to honor and acknowledge the wisdom and protection of the Caboclos, who are considered ancestral entities.
- A musical rhythm: „Marrumbá“ is also the name of a specific musical rhythm used in Candomblé and Umbanda rituals. The „marrumbá“ rhythm is characterized by being strong, vibrant, and contagious, often using instruments such as atabaques (drums), agogôs (bells), and xequerés (shakers).
MEANING OF „VIZALA“
The word „Vizala“ also has a complex and multifaceted meaning, with several possible interpretations:
- A reference to the Angola nation in Candomblé: „Vizala“ is a term used in some Candomblé houses of the Angola nation to refer to the „Casa de Xangô“ (House of Shangô), the Orishá (deity) of justice and thunder.
- A reference to the energy of Shangô: „Vizala“ can also be interpreted as a reference to the energy of Shangô, which is characterized by being strong, powerful, and vibrant.
- A greeting for entities of Shangô: In some Candomblé and Umbanda houses, „Vizala“ is used as a specific greeting for entities of Shangô, such as Caboclos de Shangô and Exus de Shangô (messengers of Shangô).
- A reference to the Afro-Brazilian community: In a broader context, „Vizala“ can also be interpreted as a reference to the Afro-Brazilian community and its struggle for justice and equality.
- A spiritual entity: In some Umbanda houses, „Navizala“ is the name given to a specific spiritual entity, usually a Caboclo or Boiadeiro (Indian or cowboy spirit). This entity is known for its strength, wisdom, and healing abilities, and is often invoked to help with problems related to health, protection, and justice.
INTERPRETATION OF THE WORD AND EXPRESSION
The phrase „Xeto Marumbaxeto, Xeto na Vizala, Xeto Á!“ can be interpreted in many ways, but it generally conveys a message of respect, praise, and connection to the following:
- The power and energy of the orixás and caboclos
- The ancestral traditions of Candomblé and Umbanda
- The strength and resilience of the Afro-Brazilian community
HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The phrase „Xeto Marumbaxeto, Xeto na Vizala, Xeto Á!“ is also significant in the context of the history of Candomblé and Umbanda in Brazil. The foundation of one of the oldest Candomblé houses in Brazil is closely linked to Shangô. Two large African groups, one with Shangô as the main Orishá and the other with Oshóssi as the main Orishá, agreed to share a common place of worship. They agreed that the main hall of worship would be dedicated to Shangô, while the outdoor area with all the trees and herbs would be dedicated to Oshóssi.
In this context, the phrase can be seen as a way of asking permission to perform an African worship on foreign (Brazilian) soil, which belonged to the Caboclos.
CONCLUSION
The phrase „Xeto Marumbaxeto, Xeto na Vizala, Xeto Á!“ is a beautiful example of the richness and complexity of Afro-Brazilian religions. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting tradition, honoring the ancestors, and celebrating the strength and resilience of the African diaspora. While its exact meaning may vary depending on the context, it undoubtedly expresses a deep connection to the spiritual world and a profound respect for the Orishás and Caboclos who guide and protect followers of Candomblé and Umbanda as well as other Orishá (and Nkisis or Voduns based) traditions like Santeria and Vodou.