Some basics of Santeria

Some basics of Santeria

Santeria is a vibrant nature religion, based on stones, seashells, water and herbs, as well as other natural objects. The Yoruba slaves who brought the Religion from Africa identified the Orisha' s or Gods with the Catholic Saints, in order to preserve the tradition from the abuses of the Church. Practising Santeros, or priests recognise the Saints as having the same natural powers as the Orishas fro healing and spell-casting.

As the practitioners of Santeria believe in one creative force called Oloddumare, the Orishas are worshipped as Spirit guardians who offer Divine guidance and protection to reverent followers rather than as Gods. Every individual in the Santeria Religion, has a personnal Orisha to help him or her along the path of life.

Elleggua (St. Anthony) Is the trixter Orisha, tending to create confusion wherever he goes. Because he knows all things, he demands his due before all the other dieties. Elleggua brings us into balance and wholeness.

Orunmila (St. Francis of Assisi) "one who lives both in heaven and earth" Divination is his gift to mankind. Because he know our ultimate fate, he helps us to improve our destiny.

Obatala (Our lady of Merci) Is a male Deity, embodying female aspects as well. He is known for peace, purity, and the white robes in which he dresses. Obatala helps us control our thoughts.

Chango (St. Barbara) is the patron of power. He wears a red coat covered with cowrie shells, and is fond of women, food, dancing, thunder, lightning, and all things hot anf fiery. he can help us attain passion in our relationships.

Oggun (St. Peter) is a warrior God, and the patron of all metals. Although he creates much Chaos here on earth, he also helps us to gain employment and protects us against violent crime.

Ochosi (St. Norbert) is the Divine hunter. He resides in the woods, sometimes "eating and living" with Oggun.Ochosi protects and assists hunters. He also has curative powers, and can help with relocationas well as courtroom trials.

Aganyu (St. Christopher) is the Volcano God, and the father of Chango, through his union with Yemmu. One can only recieve Aganyu's helpfull control over harmfull influences, through Chango's intercession.

Babalu-Aye (St. Lazarus) is the patron of healing, and one of the most well loved Orishas. He carries a bag filled with corn, and helps those in financial distress achieve prosperity.

Yemaya (Our lady of Regla) is an ocean Goddess, and patroness of fertility. This much-revered Orisha is very beautiful. She brings young girls to womanhood, and is associated with the moon.

Oshun (Our lady of Charity) is a river Goddess, the Venus-Aphridite of the Santeria Religion. She is the Patroness of Love, marriage, money, joy, and abundance.

Oya (Our Lady of Candelaria/St. Theresa) is the Goddess of the winds and the cemetaries. Because she is a warrior, her behavior is very aggressive. She offers her followers protection against death.

References

Gonzales-Whippler, Migene. "Santeria: the Religion". St.Paul: "Llewellyn's Magical Almanac 1997" Llewellyn Publications:St Paul

Changó beads - red/white - To give power over others and as a symbol for sensual pleasures

Elegguá beads - red/black - To open all doors of opportunity and remove all obstacles

Ogun beads - black/green - To control quarrels and give work to the unemployed

Oshún beads - amber/yellow - To attract love,beauty, and money

Yemayá beads - blue/white - For fertility and protection of women

7 African beads - 7 colors - For several objectives... money, power, love, opportunity, work, peace, protection