I feel like its a lifeline. Hades and Persephone Was it Really a Love Story? Rulers and heroes are sometimes transformed into minor deities, as they are seen as people who have done great things for their communities and upheld values that are important to the group. THIS IS TRUE !! Osanyin is known as the god of herbs who lives in the forest to care for the plants and herbs. omnipresent but is I started crying out to God for help on this earth because I was experiencing what youre experiencing. Because of his fear of being separated from his twin sister, Ogo rebelled against his father causing himself to be muted and wander alone on the outskirts of human society. Moreover, the Orishas are spirits (more similar to demi-gods or angels) that work under the watchful eye of Olodumare. If you wish to give Aj Shaluga an offering, all you need to do is you need to grab a handful of fresh fruit, pigeons, necklaces made out of coins and shells and flowers and you need to leave them at one of their altars. However, the constant need by human beings for basic things from the sky, such as food, seemed to frustrate him, so he began his journey away from the planet. Im currently on an ATR spiritual path and have an amazing Padrino; however, in order to practice our invoke the spirits of that religion I have to be initiated. Anansi Anansi was one of the sons of Nyame. Another belief revolves around reincarnation. Crops may live or die due to changes in the skies above, and stomachs may be quenched for hunger or thirst. As Ras sworn enemy, he fought the sun god every night. The Lord of the Heavens was not always this distant from the planet riddled with human beings. Shango directs the destination of thunder and lightning depending on what goes on in the world down below. Can a deceased sibling still be spoken with if you put up a alter for them in the form of an ancestor?? Yemaya is known as the Patron Spirit of the Ocean and the Rivers, and she is the main deity that the Yoruba people pray to when they set sail. Now, depending on who you ask, the 7th (Oya) is sometimes substituted with Orunmila or Ochossi. Moreover, there are different ways to invoke the Seven African Powers including dance, chanting, prayer, candles, oils, and more. He holds power over knowledge, including information, intuition, and instinct. She is crowned the Queen of the river Niger. Part of this is due to the belief that Olodumare is so deific; his mere distance from the human world makes him incredibly detached from their daily affairs. Ive been trying to learn my cultural roo Wouldnt. Early River Valley Civilizations in the Americas, Comparing Historical Developments Across Time & Geography, Cambodian Civil War Lesson for Kids: Causes & Summary, Cambodia Lesson for Kids: History & Facts, The Gttingen Scholars, History & 19th-Century Historiography, Jacob Burckhardt's Impact on Cultural History, Auguste Comte's Views on Historical Development, Thomas Carlyle: The French Revolution & Impact on Historiography. The Orishas are a group of spirits originating from Yorubaland, which is a region in Africa spanning Nigeria, Benin and Togo. Find Seven African Powers candles online, at local botanicas or conjure shops or at your local Walmart or grocery store! Use the oil to anoint doorways, wallets, candles, your car, and your body to invoke their blessings and protection. I would definitely recommend Study.com to my colleagues. Oshun is the Goddess of love, freedom, fertility, and water. And just pay attention to everything that is happening to you for awhile. It will break sooner or later, especially if made w silk thread. However, he refuses to interfere in what individuals choose to do with the weapons he blesses the productions of. Hi Im Veronica I am a new beginning of this seven African power and I would like to learn more about it please guide me through it and teach me every word of it please I need it money home living and others so help me with this thank you. Oduda is the goddess of prostitution that is worshipped by the North-West African people. Could anyone point me in the right direction? The destiny of the weapon is left in the hands of the human who possesses it. Even though some of these Orishas dont get along on a normal basis, when invoked as the Seven African Powers their animosity towards one another may be calmed. Whenever she shows up, she is usually accompanied by her husband, Shango, the God of Storms. The lush continent of Africa is in fact home to numerous animals and insects found only on the continent, as well as beautifully diverse groups of people, each retaining their breathtaking cultures of yore. I went to whole foods and got her a good bar of organic chocolate. Hello. Accessed March 2, 2023. Her name translates to The Black One, and she is most often times showcased as a serpent. Shango, the Bringer of Similar to a shaman or guide who called upon a deity into a small baby black figurine that was standing on a chest. These reincarnated figures are usually there to assist their progeny with everyday life and general faith. He is known as the Giver of Iron or the Warrior God of War for many. Oya and Oshun dont get along! And who from the 7 powers do I call out too? Known to the Yoruba people of West Africa, Ogun is the god of war and iron. Obatala also values forgiveness and compassion as they once made a mistake and neglected their duties. I believe that your dream was a sign. It would be nice to chat. He is closely associated with Oya (Deity of the Winds) and Egungun (Collective Ancestral Spirits). In this article, we will be looking at the traditional beliefs of the Yoruba people, a West African ethnic group with a brimming crucible of history to their name. The ''Yemaya'' iteration of Yemonja's name was creolized in Cuba. Beyoncs been identifying with her for years. This powerful orisha is the messenger between worlds and is guardian of the crossroads. I have the utmost respect for ALL the ORISHAs! Always heard Nana buruku when I was little. Igbo is one of the oldest African religions around, with Ala being one of their oldest and most popular goddesses. No, the 7 African powers when called on for ritual or a need wouldnt interact negatively with any other energy in the home. I guess in a sense I want to avoid offending any of them while trying to connect. These deities and orishas are some of the most powerful and well-respected Neffertia has 5 years of experience tutoring middle school to college-aged students in reading and essay writing, working as a writing coach, and instructing student success courses. Same with Yemaya. I called out to them as I could name them. He is the best weapon wielder in the Orisha. Being the third and the most senior wife of Shango, Oba was one of his consorts. Eshu, also commonly referred to as Elegba, is the Trickster god of the Pantheon. While the Yoruba mythology is by far the most popular, we also recommend checking out some of the other religions here if you have the time for it. In the Americas, Oshun is regarded as the Orisha of Love.. Oba, the Orisha of water and manifestation, is no exception to a story that is best linked to jealousy. This defense was a top priority in a hostile place like West Africa. The Yoruba, Dogon, and Kuba peoples of Africa worshipped many deities or orishas. figure did not say his name, I just knew in my dream telepathically I guess that this was one of the Orisha gods/goddesses. Mischief is something that doesnt go unnoticed in African mythology in general. Peace, honesty, and creativity are just some of them. Lions, elephants, vast stretches of the jungle with venomous snakes, or an endless sea of sand stalked by nefarious scorpions. And as far as you being Asian, that has nothing to do with The Divine trying to make contact with you. Like Osun snd Ochun . While there is no actual official number of gods that can be found in this pantheon though, there is an interesting notion around it which states that there are 400+1 Orishas around. So, for todays article we decided to bring you a quick rundown of 15 African Gods and Goddesses that are going to show you just how interesting this part of the world can really be. Shango has a presence among many other African cultural groups and is referred to by different names like Esango among the Edo people of southeastern Nigeria and Sogbo among the Fon people of Benin. Orishas, too, have emotions that flow gracefully like the river. This duality of vulnerability to conditions and protection against them makes up the next Orisha. The reason as to why there is a +1 Orisha in that list is because the +1 is meant to represent the extra one you didnt account for, or the one that you never even considered in the first place. The Great Mother and protects motherhood as well as female sexuality. I want to truly understand not go on this journey just because. African mythology and legends are an important aspect of some cultural groups and religious practices in the different regions of Africa. Bumba is represented as a giant, white-colored figure that has been ill for millions of years, which explains the use of vomit to create life on Earth. She said she once cut off her ear, turned it into powder, and sprinkled it into Shangos food. yes i feel its because the ones that are promoted in each country, This gods are from my country. I recently bought a statue with Jesus on his cross and the 7 Orishas around him. Yes and most time u need no alter calling on a deceased sibling all u need is stillness and a great way of mediation. In the Yoruban religion, Olokun is the wife of Oduduwa. I ran outside and started calling the feminine Orishas I learned about in this book by Lillth Dorsey, Orishas Goddesses and Voodoo Queens. After all, they are essential natural resources giving way to life thriving within its banks. Be it Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Norse, Chinese, Japanese, Aztec, Mayan, you name it. Is the letter y even in our native language? Modern Santeria, Voodoo, and other Caribbean traditions still value this practice today. In West African Yoruban belief system, Ogun is one of the orishas. WebAbassi African God. Where can I connect with a community to learn more? On the other hand, he requires sacrifices of resources such as tobacco to ensure constant appeasement and protection of human spirits. Emily currently is a substitute teacher, and has taught a variety of K-12 courses. When Oba asked Oshun about what she did to become Shangos favorite, Oshun simply lied to her (knowing Obas children would inherit the kingdom). Along with Ochosi and Osun, the rooster sentinel, not the Orisha of Love, Oshun, I mean, as well as a shrine to my Dad. Lets take a look at each of the Seven African Powers, their qualities, and the saints they were syncretized with. YES MA AM !! Your intention is what matters the most. Although Eshu serves Ifa, the chief god, in some myths, Eshu often plays tricks on Ifa with one being tricking Ifa out of the secrets of divination and another telling a story of Eshu stealing a yam from the high god. Ultimately, its up to you what you believe about the Seven African Powers. No settlement can be complete without an armory. I drive Uber sometimes & usually play West African AfroBeats music while driving. Norse goddesses are a formidable crew with powers that rival their male counterparts. His purpose might not be material, but it is a psychological one reflected in many African myths. Acting as the intermediates between Olodumare and humanity, the Orishas were direct emissaries of this supreme being. Although they are a minor orisha, Aje Shaluga has a vast following as they are associated with happiness and joy, stability, prosperity, and spiritual wealth. Can you guide me as to how to proceed. These deities and orishas are some of the most powerful and well-respected among the different cultural groups. Both revered and feared, Obaluaye is well respected by the followers, and he is said to curse you as quickly as he can heal you. She is an orisha too right? Antaeus, a popular God among the Berber people. Thank you for this message. There isnt an exact number, but sometimes it goes up to 700, 900, or even 1440 Orishas. in my opinion think its a great idea to learn a lot about orishas and the practice before taking further steps . Some tarot cards are wrongly identified if you say its only one way. Ive seen a few in Audible. Its Yemoja not Yemaya please shes called Yemoja in Africa. Burn the incense during prayer as offering to them. Yes you do have to be initiated to have a serious connection , any other who calls on our Orishas are seen as strangers to the religion , wouldnt be able to attend ceremonies or anything involving the Orishas . He is the Orisha to call upon when you need a road opened and to open communication with all other Orishas and spirits. Being involved in marine affairs also implies that she is engaged in rejuvenating the human mind, further solidifying her position. New. They are described as androgynous. What do you advice I do about the statue? 2. While many Orishas are imaged through physical manifestations such as lightning or rivers, some are connected to deep human affairs. Im kind of confused because I dont think about Orisha and the religion at all, if not barely except for the time I see it mentioned once or twice in a while on twitter- but I think this dream must be significant? Mason-Dixon Line The Seven African Powers are seven of the most potent and venerated Orishas. Ive been Christian and Hebrew. Im not black. She is also often times associated with fertility and childbirth, and it is said that she is the one that gives mothers the ability to do everything in their power to protect their children from dangers. Intention is energy, spirit is energy. lol I guess I was half asleep when i read how to use the candle because everyday for 7 days i would wake up , light the candle, say the prayer, then before bed i would turn it off. It can be spelled differently depending on the sect and the language they use. Because of her affiliation with water, protection, and fertility, Yemonja is considered to be the most nurturing of the orishas. Im new the the practice as well, still learning. You are faithful In your journey. I love all of them!! Also commonly referred to as Mbombo, Bumba is actually the creator god of the Kuba people from Central Africa. I need help on my spiritual journey, any suggestions? Discover the various gods and goddesses of West African mythology. thank you so much for the time you put into this. Oya ya is the goddess of winds, lightning, and violent storms, death, and rebirth. Okay! theyre is yorba and santaria when it comes to orisha practices and for both the storys are diffrent so i would justmake sure youre following someone who is yorba or santaria depending on what you desires . Do the two remain compatible? They are similar but not quite the same. African people, however, do not have a single unified belief about a supreme god. Among the Yoruba people, Olokun is the goddess of the waters. The pantheon of Orishas (traditionally followed by the Yoruba people) is a sequence of divine spirits dispatched by the supreme god Olodumare. I have question that I hope you wont mind answering. Ogun is the Giver of Iron in the Orisha Pantheon. However, this somewhat stereotypical vision doesnt spring out of the blue. Nana Buluku is primarily found in the Fon religion but is also known among the Yoruba people. Among the Yoruba people, Oduduwa is the creator of the Yoruba race and religion. Understand the culture and people from whence the Seven African Powers came. While fables offer imaginative explanations, there is no doubt that the Orisha pantheons followers make it their lifestyle to uphold the norms and practices imposed by these deities. WebAfrican Supreme God Tore African God of Hunting Abaluyia (Vugusu) mythology Wele Abaluyia (Vugusu) God of Creation Alur and Dinka mythology Jok Alur and Dinka God of Rain Ambundu mythology Kabundungulu Ambundu Hero God Sudika-mbambi Ambundu God of Thunder Ankore mythology Rugaba Ankore God of Creation Anuak and Shilluk This wouldnt have been possible without bodies of water snaking through lush, dense forests, bringing much-needed vitality to all who benefit from it. Babal Ay helps heals humans against infections and epidemics which are sometimes caused by his spirit cousin Sakpata, who is known as the plague god. Her domain is over all things that flow like water, love, milk, money, honey, etc. The Origin of Hotdogs, The History of Boracay Island in The Philippines. Ala is a goddess in Igbo mythology from eastern Nigeria. The Orishas can be either male or female and are deities in the Yoruba religion of West Africa. These deities, who It is likely that you are more familiar with Greek mythology than with the gods of the Yoruba pantheon. As a result, they are all controlled within the domains of the Orishas. that you should approach them with respect and reverence. It is said that Obatala was the one that created the human bodies, and as they finished up their job, they demanded of their father to breathe life into the soulless bodies in front of them. A note on online sources: Ive done considerable research on the Seven African Powers, and I find it interesting that because of the forced syncretization of the Seven African Powers with seven Catholic saints, some sources claim the original 7 were never Orishas. Oya ya is the goddess of winds, lightning, and violent storms, death, and rebirth. Oshun is depicted in the Yoruban religion as a protector and savior of the people. Enrolling in a course lets you earn progress by passing quizzes and exams. 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