The mask is used in ceremonies with Egungun. Not only are masks used, but whole costumes are used to communicate with the dead in this way. Naturally, the MASK is one of the symbols of Yansa. In fact, when the Orisha is going to be made on someone, a special mask has to be consecrated to Yansa in a special ceremony. This mask then lives with Yansa next to her sopera or soup-tureen. Also at that time, a special machete is prepared and consecrated also, to be with Yansa and is used in certain ceremonies when the Orisha is crowned on the head of the initiate. Yansa also has a special Osun that is prepared before the Saint made. Yansa is a very special Orisha and her ceremonies are extensive and complicated. Needless to say, we cannot go into details here for that is for initiates only. The mask above is from a museum and is representative of Yansa.
Some Orisha worshippers would take offense at the use of the word, witch, to describe an Orisha. However, there are some Orishas that can be described that way. In african, the word witch, has bad connotations, however, in this country,it has the meaning more of a person or entity with MAGICAL powers. And, indeed, the powers of the Orishas would be called magical by many, in terms of the wonderful effects they are able to accomplish. Likewise, some Orishas more than others lend themselves to do "brujeria" or witchcraft, meaning they like to do works of magic for their children and others that ask their help. Ochossi is another Orisha that is very "witchy". He is connected to all the spirits that live in the woods, just as Yansa is connected to the spirits that live in the cemetery. Both these Orishas have the power to enlist the aid of spirits to help them in their work in resolving problems for those the ask humbly and in the correct way. Remember that the Orishas are very elevated spirits and not just some spirits that you can force to do your will. That is in the province of sorcerers, that conjure spirits to make them do their wills. Always approach the Orishas with respect and in the proper manner, if you wish to enlist their aid in solving problems and situations.
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