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Religious Figures of Santeria |
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Santeria
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Babalú Ayé |
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Babalu Aye is concerned with disease and epidemics. Originally associated with smallpox, many current worshippers ask him to cure HIV/AIDS. |
| Changó |
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Chango is the orisha of thunder, drums and dance. He is historically a brave warrior king. | |
| Elegguá |
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Eleggua is the divine messenger. He is related to new endeavors and crossroads. Eleggua is characteristically a trickster and must be appeased through opening prayers and songs. | |
| Obbatalá |
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Obbatala embodies composure and intelligence. He was the creator of the human body. Obbatala is also the protector of the deformed, addicted and mentally ill. | |
| Ochosi |
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Ochosi is a hunter. He is often portrayed with a bow and arrow. He is also the Orisha that rules justice. | |
| Ochún |
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Ochun is the youngest Orisha. She symbolizes motherhood and water. Worshippers ask her for help with love, marriage and fertility. | |
| Oggún |
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Oggun is a warrior. He represents machines and metals. Oggun is often associated with weapons and tools. | |
| Orula |
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Orula is connected with divination and wisdom. Orula is often worshipped by priests and priestesses. | |
| Oyá |
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Oya is a female Orisha who is associated with winds and lightning. She is a warrior and protector of cemetery gates. | |
| Yemayá |
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Yemaya is the mother of the Orishas. She rules the oceans, and like them, can be either peaceful or violent. | |
| African Art Home | Orisha information taken from VII |
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The syncretism of Yoruba belief and Catholicism in Cuba has resulted in the parallelism of divine figures. Click here for more information about these correspondences
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