Santeria is the worship of the Orisha, or "head guardian" and combines the beliefs of the Yoruba and Bantu people in Southern Nigeria, Senegal and Guinea Coast with elements of Roman Catholicism. The two faiths became syncretized. Brazilians practice it under such names as Candomble, Umbanda, and Quimbanda. It is believed among most scholars that New Orleans Style Voodoo and the current American Style Palo Mayombe also evolved from this. And while there are many similarities, each system has it's own unique rules, Deities and way of doing things.
Elegba is the Divine Messenger. Elegba rules all doors and roads. He is the Orisha of communication. He also rules luck and fortune. He removes all obstacles in your path.
Oshun is the Orisha of the River. She rules love, eroticism, wealth, fertility, happiness, fashion, cosmetology, pleasure and the arts that bring these.
Chango is the Orisha of Justice, court cases and male sexuality. He rules thunder, drums and warriors.
Yemaya is the Orisha of the sea and motherhood. She is nurturing, healing and creates peace and calm in a person's life. She rules all things connected with the sea, motherhood and the care and raising of children.
Ogun is the Orisha of Iron, a warrior, a hunter and a blacksmith. He rules industry, war, the military, technology, automobiles, railroads and surgery.
Oya is the Orisha of the Wind and of the Marketplace. She rules those who travel through the air and those who sell merchandise in the marketplace. She rules the entrance to the cemetery and the Dead.
Babaluaye is the Orisha of infectious disease and the patron of the poor, the sick and crippled. He is said to give wealth to those he favors. He is also a protector of those down on their luck.
Ochosi works with Elegba and Ogun to track down your goals and find them for you. He teaches you the importance of justice, fairness and consistency.
The Ibeji are the Divine Twins who work to bring about healing and wealth.
Combine the power of the Orisha for love, luck, health, wealth, healing and prosperity.
Olokun is known as the Lord of the Deep. He is very wealthy and willing to share wealth with those who worship him.
Obatala is the Orisha of white light and fatherhood. He is the highest and most spiritual Orisha. He rules mountains, hills and religious mystics. He is a calm, peaceful and patient Orisha.
Orunmila rules wisdom and divination.
Copyright Madrina Angelique Samedi:2003
Celebrating The Goddess Within
