"Afro-Cuban religion can be broken down into three main currents: Santería, Palo Monte, and Abakuá, and include individuals of all origins. Santería is syncretized with Roman Catholicism. The Abakuá religion is a secret society for men, similar to the freemason orders of Europe. It has not been syncretized with Roman Catholicism and remains close to its origins in southeastern Nigeria and southwestern Cameroon, from the Ekpe society of the Efik people of Cross River State and nearby areas. Afro-Cuban music involves two main categories of music, religious and profane. Religious music includes the chants, rhythms and instruments used in rituals"
"Osun Osun (Ozun) is a major Orichá (manifestation of a god) in the Santería religion of the Caribbean (Cuba and Trinidad) brought over by West African slaves during the transatlantic slave trade. Traditionally, Osun is a to the other Orichás, and he protects the orí (head) of Santería practitioners. He is syncretized with Saint John the Baptist (Elijah, Ilesha, Ilungu) by the fact that out of vodun he came forth to know and accept Ethiopian Christianity and Jesus as one greater than he, hence the book of John. The same book that spurred a memorable apocalyptic movie entitled, ""The Book"
"others. These varieties, or spiritual lineages as they are called, are practiced throughout areas of Nigeria, the Republic of Benin, Togo, Brazil, Cuba, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States, Uruguay, Argentina and Venezuela, among others. As interest in African indigenous religions grows, Orisha communities and lineages can be found in parts of Europe and Asia as well. While estimates may vary, some scholars believe that there could be more than 100 million adherents of this spiritual tradition worldwide. Oral history of the Oyo-Yoruba recounts Odùduwà to be the Progenitor of the Yoruba and the"
"and fertility. He is confused in Brazil’s Candomblé community with Oxalá, since both dress in white. Bees are considered the messengers Òrìșà-Oko. SHe is syncretized with Saint Isidore among Cuban orisa practitioners of Santería/Lucumí/Regla de Ocha, et al. Oko (Orisha) Òrìșà-Oko (known as Ocó in Latin America) is an Orisha. In Yorubaland of Nigeria and the Benin Republic, he is a strong hunter deity as well as a fighter against sorcery. He is associated with the annual new harvest of the white African yam. Among the deities he is considered a close friend of Oosa Ogiyan and Shango, as well"
"of Eli"". The Strong's Hebrew Concordance lists #7564 as ""Rishah"" meaning wickedness. (Definitely to be correlated with Oshun of the Ifá and Yoruba religions, also known as Osún in Latin America, where, ""also known in Latin America"" means there is a correlation.) See also: Benin (UNESCO World Heritage Masterpiece Language) Osun Osun (Ozun) is a major Orichá (manifestation of a god) in the Santería religion of the Caribbean (Cuba and Trinidad) brought over by West African slaves during the transatlantic slave trade. Traditionally, Osun is a to the other Orichás, and he protects the orí (head) of Santería practitioners. He"
"article was published in the Dallas Observer documenting the volume and brutality of the animal sacrifices. Santería Santería, also known as Regla de Ocha, La Regla de Ifá, or Lucumí, is an Afro-American religion of Caribbean origin that developed in the Spanish Empire among West African descendants. ""Santería"" is a Spanish word that means the ""worship of saints"". Santería is influenced by and syncretized with Roman Catholicism. Its sacred language is the Lucumí language, a variety of Yoruba. Santería is a system of beliefs that merges aspects of Yoruba religion brought to the New World by enslaved Yoruba people along"
"to other Afro-American religions such as Palo, Haitian Vodou, Santería, and Hoodoo in that it includes communication with ancestors and spirits and healing rituals. Nevertheless, it differs from religions like Vodou and Santeria in that there is no explicit canon of gods or deities that is worshipped, and the practice is generally an individual action rather than part of a collective ceremony or offering. Variants of Obeah are practiced in the Bahamas and in the Caribbean nations of Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Virgin Islands, as well as"
"result of the Atlantic slave trade and are now expressed in practices as varied as Santería, Candomblé, Trinidad Orisha, Umbanda, and Oyotunji, among others. The concept of orisha is similar to those of deities in the traditional religions of the Bini people of Edo State in southern Nigeria, the Ewe people of Benin, Ghana, and Togo, and the Fon people of Benin. Yoruba tradition often says that there are 400 + 1 Òrìṣà, which is associated with a sacred number. Other sources suggest that the number is ""as many as you can think of, plus one more – an innumerable"
"Obeah Obeah (sometimes spelled ""Obi"", ""Obeah"", ""Obeya"", or ""Obia"") is a system of spiritual and healing practices developed among enslaved West Africans in the West Indies. Obeah is difficult to define, as it is not a single, unified set of practices; the word ""Obeah"" was historically not often used to describe one's own practices. Some scholars, such as Diana Paton, have contended that what constitutes Obeah in Jamaica has been constructed by white society, particularly law enforcement. Accordingly, different Afro-Caribbean communities use their own terminology to describe the practice, such as science, among the Jamaican Windward Maroons. Obeah is similar"
"Oba (Orisha) Oba (known as Obá in Latin America) is the Orisha of the River Oba, whose source lays near Igbon, where her worship originates. During the wars of the 19th century, her centers of worship moved to the more secure town Ogbomosho. She is traditionally identified as the first wife of Shango (the third king of the Oyo Empire and an Orisha). Oba was tricked by Oya or Oshun into cutting off her ear and trying to feed it to Shango. She is syncretized with Saint Catherine of Siena. At her center of worship in Ogbomosho, Oba is described"
"years, she was credited with freeing more than 1000 slaves, and helping them to resettle in the Maroon community. Many in her community attributed Nanny's leadership skills to her Obeah powers. Obeah is an African-derived religion that is still practised in Suriname, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Barbados, Belize and other Caribbean countries. It is associated with both good and bad magic, charms, luck, and with mysticism in general. In some Caribbean nations, aspects of Obeah have survived through synthesis with Christian symbolism and practice introduced by European colonials and slave owners. Nanny's tribe of origin, Asante, strongly resisted Europeans"
"Santería Santería, also known as Regla de Ocha, La Regla de Ifá, or Lucumí, is an Afro-American religion of Caribbean origin that developed in the Spanish Empire among West African descendants. ""Santería"" is a Spanish word that means the ""worship of saints"". Santería is influenced by and syncretized with Roman Catholicism. Its sacred language is the Lucumí language, a variety of Yoruba. Santería is a system of beliefs that merges aspects of Yoruba religion brought to the New World by enslaved Yoruba people along with Christianity and the religions of the indigenous peoples of the Americas. The Yoruba people carried"
"Obeah and Wanga The terms Obeah and Wanga are African diasporic words that occur in The Book of the Law (the sacred text of Thelema, written by English author and occultist Aleister Crowley in 1904): Obeah is a folk religion and folk magic found among those of African descent in the West Indies. It is derived from West African Igbo sources and has a close North American parallel in African American conjure or hoodoo. A wanga (sometimes spelled oanga or wanger) is a magical charm packet found in the folk magic practices of Haiti, and as such it is connected"
"Oya Oya (Yoruba: Ọya, also known as Oyá or Oiá; Yansá or Yansã; and Iansá or Iansã in Latin America) is an Orisha of winds, lightning, and violent storms, death and rebirth. She is similar to the Haitian god Maman Brigitte, who is syncretised with the Catholic Saint Brigit. In Yoruba, the name Oya literally means ""She Tore"". She is known as Ọya-Iyansan – the ""mother of nine."" This is due to the Niger River (known to the Yoruba as the Odo-Ọya) traditionally being known for having nine tributaries. In Candomblé, Oya is known as Oiá, lyá Mésàn, or most"
"and resemble a shepherd's crook. The language of the songs has been referred to as ""Trinidad Yoruba"" and is derived from the Yoruba language. Trinidad Orisha Trinidad Orisha, also known as Shango, is a syncretic religion in Trinidad and Tobago and is of Caribbean origin, originally from West Africa (Yoruba religion) and influenced by Roman Catholicism. Trinidad Orisha incorporates elements of Spiritual Baptism, and the closeness between Orisha and Spiritual Baptism has led to use of the term ""Shango Baptist"" to refer to members of either or both religions. Anthropologist James Houk described Trinidad Orisha as an ""Afro-American religious complex"","
"Oko (Orisha) Òrìșà-Oko (known as Ocó in Latin America) is an Orisha. In Yorubaland of Nigeria and the Benin Republic, he is a strong hunter deity as well as a fighter against sorcery. He is associated with the annual new harvest of the white African yam. Among the deities he is considered a close friend of Oosa Ogiyan and Shango, as well as at one time husband of Oya and Yemoja. Òrìșà-Oko is depicted with a phallic staff, called a ""opa orisa oko"", a representation of his relationship with fertility; and a flute made of bone, a representation of sexuality"
"Trinidad Orisha Trinidad Orisha, also known as Shango, is a syncretic religion in Trinidad and Tobago and is of Caribbean origin, originally from West Africa (Yoruba religion) and influenced by Roman Catholicism. Trinidad Orisha incorporates elements of Spiritual Baptism, and the closeness between Orisha and Spiritual Baptism has led to use of the term ""Shango Baptist"" to refer to members of either or both religions. Anthropologist James Houk described Trinidad Orisha as an ""Afro-American religious complex"", incorporating elements mainly of traditional African religion and Yoruba and incorporates some elements of Christianity (Catholicism and Protestantism), Hinduism, Islam (especially Sufism), Buddhism, Judaism,"
"Afro-American religion Afro-American religion (also known as African diasporic religions) are a number of related religions that developed in the Americas in various nations of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the southern United States. They derive from traditional African religions with some influence from other religious traditions, notably Christianity. Afro-American religions involve veneration of the dead, and include a creator deity along with a pantheon of divine spirits such as the Orisha, Loa, Nkisi, and Alusi, among others. In addition to the religious syncretism of these various African traditions, many also incorporate elements of Folk Catholicism, Native American religion, Spiritism,"
"to Iansã in the Candomblé tradition of Brazil. A simple, unseasoned form of acarajé is used in rituals, and a version served with various condiments is sold as a common street food in Bahia in the northeast of Brazil. Ipeté and bobo de inhame are also associated with Iansã. Oya Oya (Yoruba: Ọya, also known as Oyá or Oiá; Yansá or Yansã; and Iansá or Iansã in Latin America) is an Orisha of winds, lightning, and violent storms, death and rebirth. She is similar to the Haitian god Maman Brigitte, who is syncretised with the Catholic Saint Brigit. In Yoruba,"
"and 1888, the religion developed in Brazil, influenced by the knowledge of enslaved African priests who continued to teach their mythology, their culture, and language. In addition, Candomblé absorbed elements of Roman Catholicism and includes indigenous American traditions. As an oral tradition, it does not have holy scriptures. Practitioners of Candomblé believe in a Supreme Creator called Oludumaré, who is served by lesser deities, which are called Orishas. Every practitioner is believed to have their own tutelary orisha, which controls his or her destiny and acts as a protector. Music and dance are important parts of Candomblé ceremonies, since the"
"Oshosi Oshosi (Yoruba: Ọ̀ṣọ́ọ̀sì, Portuguese: Oxóssi, is an Orisha of the Yoruba religion in West Africa and subsequently in Brazil. Oxóssi is the spirit associated with the hunt, forests, animals, and wealth. He is spirit of meals, because it is he who provides food. He is associated with lightness, astuteness, wisdom, and craftiness in the hunt. He is the orixa of contemplation, loving the arts and beautiful things. He hunts with a bow and arrow (called an ofá), hunting for good influences and positive energies. Animals sacrificed to Oxóssi rituals are goat, cooked pig, and guinea fowl. The salutation of"
"Spiritualism and European folklore. Afro-American religion Afro-American religion (also known as African diasporic religions) are a number of related religions that developed in the Americas in various nations of Latin America, the Caribbean, and the southern United States. They derive from traditional African religions with some influence from other religious traditions, notably Christianity. Afro-American religions involve veneration of the dead, and include a creator deity along with a pantheon of divine spirits such as the Orisha, Loa, Nkisi, and Alusi, among others. In addition to the religious syncretism of these various African traditions, many also incorporate elements of Folk Catholicism,"
"Acaçá Acaçá (from Yoruba: àkàsà, also known as eko) is a ritual food central to ceremonies of Afro-Brazilian religions, specifically to Candomblé rituals. It is found in the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, Rio Grande do Sul, and Rio de Janeiro. Pai Cido de Osun Eyin stated that ""life [...] is sustained, and is renewed with the ritual offering of acaçá."" It has at least two variations: a similar dish made of black beans (""acaçá de feijão-preto"") and a drink (""acaçá de leite"") also used in Candomblé rituals. Acaçá is the only ritual food required in Candomblé; it is offered to"
"Oshun Oshun (known as Ochún or Oxúm in Latin America) also spelled Ọṣun, is an orisha, a spirit, a deity, or a goddess that reflects one of the manifestations of God in the Ifá and Yoruba religions. She is one of the most popular and venerated orishas. Oshun is the deity of the river and fresh water, luxury and pleasure, sexuality and fertility, and beauty and love. She is connected to destiny and divination. During the life of the mortal Oshun, she served as princess consort to King Shango of Oyo. Following her posthumous deification, she was admitted to the"
"was followed by the massive expansion of the Portuguese slave trade. Legends of Africa The Legends of Africa reflects a wide-ranging series of kings, queens, chiefs and other leaders from across the African continent including Mali, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Congo, Ethiopia and Eritrea. Shango was the fourth king of the Oyo clan in Yorubaland who brought prosperity to the Empire he inherited. Many stories have been told about him, and several myths surround him. He stands as the cornerstone of many Afro-Caribbean religions. In the Yoruba religion, Shango (Xangô or Changó in Latin America), is perhaps the most popular Orisha."
"to the West African religion of Vodun, which in turn derives from the Fon people of what is now Benin. In his ""Commentaries"", Crowley explains: It is possible that Crowley was not referring to literal Jamaica Obeah practices or to actual wanga. He goes on to say: Obeah and Wanga The terms Obeah and Wanga are African diasporic words that occur in The Book of the Law (the sacred text of Thelema, written by English author and occultist Aleister Crowley in 1904): Obeah is a folk religion and folk magic found among those of African descent in the West Indies."
"of similar oppression by Colonial authorities in Trinidad. In practice, the Trinidad Orisha religion is very closely connected with the Spiritual Baptists. Orisha worship services typically begin with a section of Baptist hymns, and in Trinidad and New York Orisha events are often held at the same locations as Spiritual Baptist churches. Spiritual Baptist The Spiritual Baptist faith is a syncretic Afro-American religion that combines elements of traditional African religion with Christianity. Despite the African influences, Spiritual Baptists consider themselves to be Christians. The Baptist faith was brought to Trinidad by the Merikins, former American slaves who were recruited by"
"Legends of Africa The Legends of Africa reflects a wide-ranging series of kings, queens, chiefs and other leaders from across the African continent including Mali, Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, Congo, Ethiopia and Eritrea. Shango was the fourth king of the Oyo clan in Yorubaland who brought prosperity to the Empire he inherited. Many stories have been told about him, and several myths surround him. He stands as the cornerstone of many Afro-Caribbean religions. In the Yoruba religion, Shango (Xangô or Changó in Latin America), is perhaps the most popular Orisha. He is the orisha of thunder and one of the principal"
"shipped from Africa to Brazil. These black slaves would summon their gods, called Orixas, Voduns or Inkices with chants and dances they had brought from Africa. These religions have been persecuted in the past, mainly due to Catholic influence. However, Brazilian government has legalized them. In current practice, Umbanda followers leave offerings of food, candles and flowers in public places for the spirits. The Candomblé terreiros are more hidden from general view, except in famous festivals such as Iemanjá Festival and the Waters of Oxalá in the Northeast. From Bahia northwards there is also different practices such as Catimbo, Jurema"
"by a significant proportion of the populations of Nigeria, Benin and Togo. The Yoruba faith, variously known as Aborisha, Orisha-Ifa or simply (and erroneously) Ifa, is commonly seen as one of the principal components of the African traditional religions. Orisa'nla, also known as Ọbatala, was the arch-divinity chosen by Olodumare, the Supreme God, to create solid land out of the primordial water that then constituted the earth and populating the land with human beings molded out of clay. The Yorùbá religion comprises the traditional religious and spiritual concepts and practices of the Yoruba people. Its homeland is in Southwestern Nigeria"
"Ifá Ifá is a West African religion and system of divination. Its literary corpus is the ""Odu Ifá"". Orunmila is identified as the Grand Priest, as he is who revealed divinity and prophecy to the world. Babalawos or Iyanifas use either the divining chain known as ""Opele"", or the sacred palm or kola nuts called ""Ikin"", on the wooden divination tray called ""Opon Ifá"". Ifá is practiced throughout the Americas, West Africa, and the Canary Islands, in the form of a complex religious system, and plays a critical role in the traditions of Santería, Candomblé, Palo, Umbanda, Vodou, and other"
"is Gourmet (released May 25, 2018). In 2009 they participated in the concert Paz Sin Fronteras II in Plaza de la Revolución, Havana, Cuba. Orishas reunited to record new material in 2016. The name ""Orishas"" refers to the set of deities worshipped in African-based religions in the Americas, like Santería in Cuba and Candomblé in Brazil, resulting from the relocation of Yoruba slaves. These orishas each represent a natural element (such as the ocean or leaves) and exhibit a human characteristic (such as motherhood or love). The choice of this name for the hip hop group is a way of"
"the opening facing up is associated with a certain odu. This system of divination is used when consulting the Orishas. Cowrie-shell divination is found in Latin America where it plays an important role in religions like Santería and Candomblé. In Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico, it is called ""dilogun"". In Brazil, it is called ""merindinlogun"". Though they share a common root, Caribbean and South American cowrie shell divination have subsequently developed in independence from West African practice. For example, among Caribbean diviners, the first throw of the shells involves throwing them twice to derive a composite ""Odu."" The cowrie-shells,"