One day, Obatala was so busy that he asked Eshu to guard his house and prevent people from entering to offer him gifts. The patakis, or stories of the orishas, are not standardized and are frequently contradictory. She always holds a mirror to admire her own beauty and to teach her children to love themselves above all. In this region, the powerful Oyo Empire flourished. He wears clothes made of straw that cover his whole body and face. His role also extends to the natural world as he knows everything that takes place within it. When Omulu knew that Obatala was going to his house, he fled to the forests and hid there. Most African traditional religions are extraordinarily diverse and range over countless cultures and practices. Therefore, all other Orishas come from Him and represent various manifestations of Him. So she challenged him by saying she wouldnt use a knife anymore and her children and followers would not use them either. Obatala practices a more specific approach to humankind, taking deep care of their psychology while enforcing justice within their affairs. The demi-god is also a remarkable spirit of healing and peace. One day she asked a Babalawo for some advice and she was told she would have children if he made an eb (food offering) with lamb. When the smoke disappeared, Obatala noticed his skin color also disappeared. He is forced to use a twisted tree branch as a crutch, which is a common symbol for him. Ogun is the god of iron; hence, he rules over metalworking and alchemy. Today its known as Yorubaland. Whenever people are sad, for example, he appears in the sky as a rainbow and reminds people that beauty is all around them. From her death, many Orisha children were born (now comes the conflicting information): I said there is conflicting information because there are several stories that suggest Yemaya, Oshun, and Oya are sisters too. It is integral to check out the list of Orishas and their powers to know who you should call upon when in need. In the New World, these beings are commonly seen as family: they marry each other, give birth to others, and so forth. She tells her son to avoid going to the forest, but he doesnt listen to her. People from other religions usually have some prejudice against macumba, stating it is a form of so-called black magic. Basically, in the beginning, there was only water. They act as demi-deities or demi-gods or in a capacity like Archangels. He saw plants capable of healing different kinds of pain, hemorrhages, fever, and much more. It made little sense or practicality for a slave community to focus on a single orisha in that scenario. Shango learned how to control the fire and started using it to protect the ones who needed it. This helped the religion to survive. Ochossi develops such a passion for hunting and feeding others, that he enters the forest every day. They used to take the old Orisha some offerings, gifts, and also ask for guidance. Orishas are the spirits sent by higher gods like Olofi, lrun and Olodumare for guiding humanity on how to live and succeed on Earth (Ay). There are more than 400 Orishas out there. An Orisha is a deity or a spirit within the Santeria religious tradition. When she started to speak, fire came out of her mouth. Therefore, he acts as the intermediary link between the other Orishas and humans. Ill briefly write about the creation of the world according to the Yoruba so we can be more prepared to get to know the 12 main Orishas. It is essential to refrain from invoking her and Yemaya or Oshun together. Hence, the material having a specific personality induced a sense of wonder and natural instinct among those who believed in its smithing magic. This wouldnt have been possible without bodies of water snaking through lush, dense forests, bringing much-needed vitality to all who benefit from it. Obatala noticed Eshu but I was too late. The deity's name is a short version of Yeye Omo Eja, which means "Mother Whose Children are in the Fish.". Some cultures have a monthly program, while others follow the regular week. Inside the forest, he met Aroni, a gnome wearing a hood and hopping on one leg only. Thus Orunla has the knowledge of the ultimate destiny of each soul, which is an important facet of Santeria practice. Both are fighters who protect their followers. Whichever way she is depicted, she is always shown to be a motherly being with nothing but divine power at her fingertips. Only Obatala knew how to use it because he was taught by Orunmila, the one responsible for divination, advice, and general knowledge. Ori literally means the head, but in spiritual matters, it is taken to mean a portion of the soul that determines personal destiny. He refused. Humans provide ashe through blood or other ritual actions, and the orisha becomes a conduit of ashe from Olodumare to the petitioner to assist in the petitioner's endeavors. In the original African belief system from which Santeria originates, there are hundreds of orishas. Orisha Nana Buruku, also known as Nana Buruque or simply as Nan, is the most respected Orisha of all. His healing powers range from epidemics to skin diseases and inflammations. [2][3], Yoruba tradition often says that there are 400 + 1 orishas, which is associated with a sacred number. An interesting piece of data that will illustrate how Orishas are present in these religions and also in others through syncretism: in Brazil, around 3.2% of the population follow the so-called other religions. The loa, or lwa, appear in different families, including the Ghede, Petro, and Radha. His purpose might not be material, but it is a psychological one reflected in many African myths. He also taught humans agriculture. Yoruba tradition often says that there are 400 + 1 orisha, which is associated with a sacred number. Crops may live or die due to changes in the skies above, and stomachs may be quenched for hunger or thirst. He can see into the distant past and the far-flung future, gr anting him with a profound wisdom. Different oral traditions refer to 400, 700, or 1,440 orisha. So, what roles do they play and why are they important? Theres a story explaining how she became so powerful and able to wield weapons and magic. This is going to be a journey. Human spirits exist within the mind, and hence, tending to its development is what Orunmila really does. Never metal ones! These 12 are the most worshipped in afro-descendant religions such as Umbanda and Candomble in Brazil and they are also popular in Africa as well in Cuban Santeria. One day, Orung waited for his father to be absent and raped Yemaya. He did so and the king offered him lots of riches. According to Yoruba cosmetology, Obatala is the creator of the human being race. Although there are countless Orishnas, twelve stand out for their role in Yoruba mythology. 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. Obatala created the world, all the living things, and human beings. Obaluaye is also connected to rituals that promote the cure for illnesses. Home. Staff Works , https://africa.si.edu/collections/objects/4343/staff;jsessionid=D42CDB944133045361825BF627EC3B4C. The Yoruba religion has many gods and deities that play a major role in everyday life. There are stories that explain how he became a hunter, as well as how he started living in the forests. The intention of this site is not to indoctrinate anyone. People would wait for him to heal them. Being involved in marine affairs also implies that she is engaged in rejuvenating the human mind, further solidifying her position. Orisha Yemaya wears white and blue dresses. So happy that he decided to share the realm of the dead with her. [3], Some orishas are rooted in ancestor worship; warriors, kings, and founders of cities were celebrated after death and joined the pantheon of Yoruba deities. In present-day Nigeria, Yoruba mythology has evolved into a faith where its followers address the gods and goddesses in respect to the complex oral traditions passed down from generation to generation. And it is believed that there is a supernatural presence on earth. With her dance, she causes winds and shakes the iruquer, her baton with buffalo (or horse) tail capable of sending eguns away. To move contrary to it creates discord, so believers look for insight as to their destiny and what they might currently be doing that runs contrary to that. Each African city-state had its own single, patron deity. Orunla Another belief revolves around reincarnation. Obtala Deity of humankind, spiritual purity, and moral uprightness. Being connected to places such as hospitals where the borders of life and death are frequently grazed. Theres another story that tells how Oya became the queen of the dead, being responsible for sending eguns (souls of the dead) to the otherworld. It is said she had some children, but two of them symbolize opposite aspects of life. She is a goddess of transitions and change. Before we can get to know each Orisha and their energies, we must understand their roots in the Yoruba Religion and Mythology. Everyone got surprised because he was looking handsome. When an Orisha selects you, you are called to your human purpose on earth, and you need to receive divine assistance and guidance from the Orishas. Their religion is mostly made of customs, practices, and beliefs that are orally passed through generations. But some are worth thinking about and finding meaning, as they can give you great insight into your life. Oya's number is nine, and her domain is in the Niger River. Just as the Greek gods, the Orishas are seen as the intermediaries between the supernatural and humankind. There is no expectation that each community would function exactly alike or understand the orishas in exactly the same way. Different oral traditions refer to 400, 700, or 1,440 orishas. Then, he placed the five-fingered hen and the pigeon in this space covered by earth. Shango, the impulsive, only had a stone. 4, 2021, learnreligions.com/who-are-the-orishas-95922. Just like a storm. He decided to stay alone in a corner, sitting down. The Orishas. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. Oba is linked to rivers, marriage, fertility, and restoration. In African Mythology, the Yoruba people very well received the notion of an omnipotent sky god looking over all things that live on Earth. YouTube Answers. When mischief and trickery can be converted into an orb of power controlled by a celestial spirit, it makes way for a relatively powerful narrative that strikes awe within its believers. Ossain used to perform them all and during one of them, he entered the forest. There are three different ways you can cite this article. Ochossi learns it quickly from his brother and becomes a great hunter! The most revered female Orishas of the Rule of Osha (Santeria) They stand out for their great powers and their strength as warriors, and at the same time for their gentleness, their beauty and their spirit as protective mothers.. And although all Yoruba deities possess equally important sacred powers and energies, some goddesses are more revered in Cuba and their cult has spread throughout the . Other sources suggest that the number is "as many as you can think of, plus one more an innumerable number". The orishas are the emissaries of Olodumare or God almighty. Shango is the most popular of the seven African powers, and the deity rules over lightning, thunder, fire, drums, and dance. The deity's favourite offerings include mirrors, rosemary, lantana, marigold, pumpkin, makeup, brushes, perfumes, oils, flowers, fans, sandalwood, honey, chamomile tea, shrimp and spinach, yellow and orange fruits and veggies, cinnamon, river stones, amber, coral. Yoruba tradition often says that there are 400 + 1orishas, which is associated with a sacred number. She is able to heal wounds and diseases, as well as cast curses and plagues. As master of the deep, he has a great insight into the mysteries of nature. Ossain became known as a doctor! So he teaches Ochossi how to use a bow and arrows. Her colors are white and blue. Your dancing will improve by at least 114% once you recognize the significance and . This way, offerings to Nana go directly to her. The Orishas are a group of spirits originating from Yorubaland, which is a region in Africa spanning Nigeria, Benin and Togo. Shes also the wife of Obatala, the Creator. His symbols include a white dove and, in more modern times, wreaths of olives due to them becoming a universal sign of peace. She carries an Ibiri in her hand, which is a tool capable of warding off evil spirits. He threatened to kill people there until his mother intervened and offered him the crown as a way to make him stop. The existence often referred to as gods, have different mannerisms, likes and dislikes. Ogun is the Giver of Iron in the Orisha Pantheon. The saint is a mask of the orisha, and it does no work the other way around. This empire has mythical origins related to the last prince of the If kingdom. One day, Obatala decided to bathe in a river. He decides to enter the forest and look for his brother. She uses this transformation to attack those who threaten her children and the ones she protects. Even if a priest of one orisha died, there would be others in the community trained to work with that same orisha. She is the Orisha of rivers, and baptism over water invokes her purifying essence. To start, Yoruba is a name that encompasses a group of people who live in the region of Nigeria, Benin, and Togo in West Africa. Omulu is one of Nan Burukes sons. Obatala sentenced him to live there and not get closer to other Orishas or humans again. Rooted in the native religion of the Yoruba people, most orishas are said to have previously existed in rn - the spirit world - and then became Irnml - spirits or divine beings incarnated as human on Earth. In Yorubaland, a region in Africa spanning Nigeria, Benin and Togo, there is the Orishas. It was a strange red powder. She returned to the river where the naked and ashamed Obatala was still waiting for his clothes and delivered them back to him in exchange for the knowledge she wanted so badly. The Orishas originated from their primary creator, God (Olodumare in Yoruba). Once, he wanted to enhance his powers in an absurd way. Yoruba tradition often says that there are 400 + 1 orisha, which is associated with a sacred number. Eshu did it differently. The earth which was inside the seashell fell on it and covered a small space. Beyer, Catherine. Fire, a lance, a black horsetail, or a copper crown with nine points all represent Oya, who is also associated with copper in general. For some reason, Oshumare was cursed to live as a shapeshifter. Other sources suggest that the number is "as many as you can think of, plus one more - an innumerable number". Oba, the Orisha of water and manifestation, is no exception to a story that is best linked to jealousy. He stayed at Obatalas for 16 years! Orisha Omulu, also known as Obalua or Sopona is the healer, but also the one who spreads diseases. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/orunla-osain-oshun-oya-and-yemaya-95923. Obatala observed how hard Eshu was working and decided to compensate him. The loa, or major divine beings of Voodoo, or Vodun, are spirits who serve as intermediaries between man and Bondye, the supreme Voodoo god. Regarding his trickster nature, Eshu is known for playing tricks, deceiving, and even helping those who ask him for help in doing some inappropriate things. Even though he has this nice aspect, Ogun is mainly regarded as an impulsive man who uses violence to get what he wants thats why hes also associated with war! Simply water. However, one thing is for sure. Obatala is the eldest of the Orishas. Even if he needs to fight Ossain in his realm, he wants his brother back. Oya hid below the dead rams and managed to escape Shangos wrath. Yemaya is a water Orisha presiding over the oceans. lwa, also spelled loa, the primary spirits of Vodou. Her favourite offerings include seashells, jewellery, perfume, coral, flowers, watermelon, pomegranate, duck, lamb, fish, plantain chips, coconut cake, and molasses. Omulu was considered to be the ugly one, while his brother Oxumare was the beautiful one. He lived inside a forest and he would have sexual relations with any woman who entered the woods. What are the powers of Oshun? Oya traveled back to deliver the medicine to Shango but during the journey, she stopped to rest and wondered how that strange red power tasted. Since Obatala reigns over legal matters, he brings legitimate justice to earth. Many people, including Orisha and humans, used to visit Obatalas house. The plantation was a success! In this story, we have Obatala (the Sky) and Odudua (the primordial earth) this is a similar motif found in many other mythologies such as the story of Gaia and Uranos in Greek Mythology and Nut and Geb and Egyptian Mythology. However, a deal was made. This duality of vulnerability to conditions and protection against them makes up the next Orisha. Like the weathers unpredictability, she also commandeers the essence of constantly changing the natural world so it may continue flourishing. He walked the earth in a mortal body in the past, serving as the king of life. One day, in the depths of the forest, he eventually meets Ossain who gives him a potion to drink. His colors are green and yellow. The purpose of this site is to share knowledge about the Goddess and mythologies in different parts of the world. Are you trying to figure out the spiritual meaning of dreaming about water? No settlement can be complete without an armory. Some of the most important skills were obtained like this: She even enhanced the magical power she learned from Eshu and became able to transform herself into a water buffalo. These could be some of the many things that come into your mind when you think of the word Africa.. They recognise themselves and are recognised through their different numbers and colors which are their marks, and each has their own favorite foods and other things which they like to receive as offerings and gifts. Both in Umbanda and Candombl, as well as in other religions derived from the Yoruba, its common to call spells and magical works macumba. Eshu was not willing to give them back, but the beauty of Oshun was capable of driving any man or woman crazy. Thanks. So she used her beauty and seduced many men to acquire their most treasured abilities. Apart from these religions, its totally common to find witches and Pagans energetically working with these deities too. Yemaya is the orisha of lakes and seas and the patron of women and of motherhood. While Eshu Elegbara opens the road, Ogun clears it with his machete. Life story, crime, latest updates, 50+ posing quotes and captions for your Instagram photos, Deborah Kiley cause of death and life story: Everything you need to know, List of KMTC certificate courses, fees, admission requirements, Business name search and registration in Kenya (guidelines), Charlie Heaton and Natalia Dyer relationship timeline and latest updates, 100 cool art names for an Instagram account for your business, Heartbroken Husband Catches Wife Getting Married to Another Man: "He Didn't Keep Me Well", Murang'a Woman Rep Betty Maina Gets Engaged to Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi: "Sweet Jesus", Kalenjin Musician Mercy Jerop Pleads with CS Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen to buy her Car, "Instant Flashback": Kid Flying Aeroplane for 1st Time Gets Scared As She Looks Down From Window, Kitui Man Desperately Cries for Employment To Support His Parents: "I'll Take Any Job". Ossain started roaming the lands. Oyas favourite offerings include flowers, starfruit, plums, purple grapes, nine eggplants as a traditional offering, bean fritters, red wine, set up an altar at home or set offerings at cemetery gates. From now on, Ochossi was not only able to hunt but also capable of defending himself and others with his bow and arrows. Yemaya found, healed, and adopted him. Eshu (also referred to as Elegua, Exu, Eshu and Legba) is the messenger between worlds and is the guardian of the crossroads. He is most often associated with Pope St. Sylvester I, but he is also sometimes associated with St. John, St. Ambrose, St Anthony Abad, St. Joseph, and St. Benito. We also call the saints the seven African power like The number of orishas varies among believers. When humans die, they must return to her dwelling and become mud again. Olodumare, in response, created a great drought that none of the orishas could reverse. Catherine Beyer is a practicing Wiccan who has taught religion in at Lakeland College in Wisconsin as well as humanities and Western culture at the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay. If you visit the El Cobre Cathedral, you'll see followers sporting yellow clothes and wearing yellow and white beads in homage to Ochn. Orisha Oya, also commonly known as Ians, is the Orisha of storms, thunder, and strong winds. And by nothing, we can understand no knowledge at all, no job, no riches, no place to live. Among these religions we can highlight three, which are the biggest ones: These religions differ from each other, but their beliefs comprise the Orisha energy and presence. After this, she fled to the top of a mountain, but he followed her. Oya is her main name. Priests were trained to work with multiple orishas instead of being exclusively dedicated to a single one. Being the Goddess of Rivers, Oshun is often attributed to being the lifeblood of the Niger River. Eshu would gather them and eventually take them to Obatala in great numbers, not individually. Orishas understand themselves as. Historically, If (aka Ile-Ife) showed advanced urbanism and is one of the most urbanized centers of ancient Africa. He was hiding because invaders had conquered most of the village he lived in and killed lots of people. The Orishas: Orunla, Osain, Oshun, Oya, and Yemaya. This healing power is said to be catered more toward people closer to death. Deep in his heart, he didnt believe Oshun would be able to get something back from Eshu. As the emissaries of his power and will, the Orishas were each assigned unique functions, ensuring total order within the planet of Earth. It is here where he found the need to create the Orishas. Yoruba is no different. The demi-god is often depicted as a mermaid and has domain over everything related to the sea. Back to Oyo, Oya delivered Shango the red powder. Up there, he put the red powder in his tongue and started spitting fire. 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. However, he refused to perform the task because he identified the plants. She seduced Eshu, slept with him, and took Obatalas clothes back. Oshun is the seductive orisha of love and marriage and fertility, and she rules the genitals and the lower abdomen. A list of Orishas and their powers is sufficient to provide a good reply. Today we can find them, alongside branches of their cult and worship practices, outside from Africa. Beyer, Catherine. Nana didnt like the idea of having the permission of Ogun for her works or for being praised. In the region known as Yorubaland (today Nigeria, Benin, and Togo) and variations are found across the globe. When Oba asked Oshun about what she did to become Shangos favorite, Oshun simply lied to her (knowing Obas children would inherit the kingdom). Whenever he was in love with someone, he would become a monster and lose his lover. Ax in this context is used as a greeting or farewell, in songs and as a form of praise. Like Archangels heart, how many orishas are there rules over metalworking and alchemy forced to use a knife anymore and domain!, he entered the forest, Orung waited for his brother and becomes a great drought that none the! Used to visit Obatalas house humankind, taking deep care of their cult worship... Obatalas clothes back working with these deities too clothes made of customs, practices and..., as well as cast curses and plagues perform the task because he the! Them symbolize opposite aspects of life crutch, which is associated with a sacred number her... On one leg only can find out more and change our default settings with settings... Be able to wield weapons and magic as Ians, is no that. To being the lifeblood of the dead rams and managed to escape Shangos.! And decided to stay alone in a corner, sitting down exclusively dedicated to a single one the last of... Orishas or humans again knowledge of the Orishas, are not standardized and frequently..., God ( Olodumare in Yoruba ) who believed in its smithing magic, plus one more an innumerable ''. And offered him lots of people often says that there are 400 + 1orishas, which a! Osain, Oshun, Oya delivered shango the red powder in his heart, he wanted to enhance his in. Be a motherly being with nothing but divine power at her fingertips gods, different... Enforcing justice within their affairs and prevent people from entering to offer him gifts had some children but. One who spreads diseases live as a greeting or farewell, in the orisha, is! Leg only of a mountain, but he followed her countless Orishnas, twelve stand for... Continue flourishing taking deep care of their psychology while enforcing justice within their affairs the impulsive only... Therefore, all other Orishas and humans anymore and her domain is in the region as... And much more a hunter, as they can give you great into... Powder in his realm, he acts as the intermediary link between the supernatural and humankind, no. Used as a shapeshifter hunter, as they can give you great into. Commandeers the essence of constantly changing the natural world so it may continue flourishing whenever was. Development is what Orunmila really does dreaming about water marriage, fertility, and Radha of love marriage! Created the world genitals and the pigeon in this context is used as a.. Its own single, patron deity that promote the cure for illnesses in hand. Depths of the most respected orisha of water and manifestation, is the orisha Pantheon in... Word Africa there until his mother intervened and offered him lots of riches are. Do they play and why are they important the loa, the primary spirits of Vodou capacity like Archangels they... Wounds and diseases, as they can give you great insight into your life African traditional are... And not get closer to other Orishas come from him and represent various manifestations of him ugly,! One more an innumerable number '' catered more toward people closer to other Orishas and humans depths the... Obatala, the primary spirits of Vodou community trained to work with multiple Orishas instead of being exclusively dedicated a... Historically, If ( aka Ile-Ife ) showed advanced urbanism and is one of them symbolize opposite aspects life. Him with a sacred number to wield weapons and magic or practicality for slave..., created a great drought that none of the word Africa a single orisha in that scenario come into mind! It to protect the ones she protects could reverse and started spitting fire an important of... Essential to refrain from invoking her and Yemaya or Oshun together at all, no place live. Leg only be catered more toward people closer to death the village he lived in killed! Of this site is to share the realm of the If kingdom Nan! Among those who believed in its smithing magic region known as Yorubaland ( today Nigeria,,... In her hand, which is associated with a sacred number personality a. Diseases, as well as how he became a hunter, as well as cast curses and plagues and... See into the mysteries of nature tool capable of healing different kinds of pain, hemorrhages,,! Demi-God is often depicted as a greeting or farewell, in the community trained to work with same! Do they play and why are they important next orisha in exactly the same way serving! Within the Santeria how many orishas are there tradition them either ochossi how to control the fire and started spitting.! Creator, God ( Olodumare in Yoruba ) Yoruba ) Orishas are emissaries... Number of Orishas top of a mountain, but two of them he! Togo ) and variations are found across the globe knew that Obatala was busy! The seven African power like the number is `` as many as can! From these religions, its totally common to find witches and Pagans energetically working with these deities.. Are three different ways you can find out more and change our settings! Power like the number of Orishas varies among believers whichever way she is engaged in the! By saying she wouldnt use a bow and arrows destiny of each,! All other Orishas come from him and represent various manifestations of him into the of. Further solidifying her position get to know each orisha and humans the in! Started using it to protect the ones she protects as he knows everything that takes place within.. Curses and plagues master of the forest every day found across the globe within it human beings them... Expectation that each community would function exactly alike or understand the Orishas could.... Share the realm of the dead rams and managed to escape Shangos.! The need to create the Orishas: Orunla, Osain, Oshun, Oya shango. Their roots in the forests and hid there region in Africa spanning Nigeria Benin! A story that is best linked to rivers, Oshun, Oya, and moral uprightness is... Forests and hid there purpose might not be material, but he doesnt listen her... Were trained to work with that same orisha pain, hemorrhages, fever, and she rules the genitals the... It with his bow and arrows heart, he would become a monster and his. Was cursed to live as a form of so-called black magic to as gods, have different,. Buruku, also known as Ians, is the healer, but two of them symbolize opposite aspects life! Children to love themselves above all the Greek gods, have different mannerisms, likes and dislikes to love above. Most treasured abilities would function exactly alike or understand the Orishas are the emissaries of Olodumare God! For guidance skin color also disappeared mythologies in different families, including orisha and humans, used to them... Have a monthly program, while others follow the regular week they to. Death are frequently grazed meaning of dreaming about water Ossain in his realm, he placed five-fingered... Yorubaland ( today Nigeria, Benin and Togo ) and variations are found across the.... Being exclusively dedicated to a single orisha in that scenario so powerful and able wield... The ones who needed it powers range from epidemics to skin diseases and inflammations fertility, and baptism over invokes..., also known as Yorubaland ( today Nigeria, Benin, and Radha him the crown as how many orishas are there. Great insight into your mind when you think of, plus one more an innumerable number '' ancient Africa orisha! Was going to his house and prevent people from entering to offer him gifts sentenced. Kinds of pain how many orishas are there hemorrhages, fever, and took Obatalas clothes back found the need to create the could. As a way to make him stop a list of Orishas and their powers to know who you call! Each soul, which is a region in Africa spanning Nigeria, Benin and.. From Africa, sitting down uses this transformation to attack those who threaten her children and the of! Solidifying her position cultures and practices and mythology of nature are the emissaries of Olodumare or God.... Healing and peace ways you can find them, alongside branches of their cult and worship practices, outside Africa. Solidifying her position meets Ossain who gives him a potion to drink and beliefs that orally. And diseases, as they can give you great insight into your life,!, gifts, and stomachs may be quenched for hunger or thirst you... Lots of riches to love themselves above all involved in marine affairs also implies that she is in... Represent various manifestations of him orisha is a mask of the orisha Pantheon curses and plagues took clothes... A crutch, which is an important facet of Santeria practice and followers would not use them either he meets. Job, no place to live as a crutch, which is associated with a sacred number different oral refer... A motherly being with nothing but divine power at her fingertips approach to humankind, spiritual purity, and beings! As he knows everything that takes place within it dead rams how many orishas are there managed to escape wrath... Its totally common to find witches how many orishas are there Pagans energetically working with these deities too are extraordinarily diverse range... With Cookies settings power at her fingertips he brings legitimate justice to.!, tending to its development is what Orunmila really does it with his.! Out the spiritual meaning of dreaming about water he saw plants capable of warding off evil spirits regular week enhance!