african gods

Shango is a deity in Yoruba mythology, symbolizing thunder, lightning, fire, dancing, and justice. He holds a dual role as both the king among the Orishas and the judge, upholding order and balance, and prioritizing truth. Frequently depicted as a tall, muscular figure, Shango wields a double-edged axe and a thunderbolt, symbols of his role as a dispenser of justice. Legend has it that Shango came into existence when lightning struck the sky on a stormy night. He is known for his intolerance towards injustice and his ability to both incite and pacify storms. Shango’s dance, powerful enough to make the world tremble, highlights his strength, and he is celebrated alongside his consorts Osun, Oya, and Oba, with whom he has several children.

Yemaya, known as the queen of the sea in Yoruba and Afro-Brazilian religions, is revered as the mother of all life, closely associated with the ocean, rivers, and fertility. Often depicted as a mermaid or a stunning woman dressed in blue and white, she controls the waves, providing protection to sailors and fishermen. Yemaya represents compassion, empathy, and strength through her maternal, loving nature. Legends state she originated from the primordial waters, granted the ability to manipulate the ocean by Olodumare. She holds a special place as one of the earliest Orishas and the mother of all of them.

Ogun, the deity of iron, battle, and hunting, is depicted as a fearsome warrior with a metal helmet and a machete. A son of Yemoja and Oduduwa, he fell in love with Oshun, the goddess of beauty, fertility, and rivers. Ogun’s story includes a solemn promise to honor him with a day of silence and fasting, which ended in tragedy when he returned from battle to a silent city, leading to his disappearance into the ground.

Oshun, the goddess of beauty, love, fertility, and wealth, is present in freshwaters around the world. Known for her beauty, she maintains balance in emotions, fecundity, and nature. Oshun, a powerful and compassionate Orisha, was the consort of Shango and is linked with water and honey. She created the world’s first river, blessing it with beauty and sweetness. Oshun is considered a maternal figure, providing nourishment, care, and protection, and she is also recognized as the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Oosi, associated with hunting and justice, is a proficient hunter and a Divine Hunter due to his exceptional sight, agility, and precision. He is considered a companion of Ogun and Oshun, forming a remarkable team that embodies physical prowess, foresight, planning, intuition, and tact. Oosi, the king of Ketu, brought prosperity to his people and holds special significance in Brazil, especially within the Candomblé tradition.

Oba, associated with marriage, relationships, and fertility, is known as the spouse of Shango. She represents intense love, resilience, and the capacity to endure hardship for love. Oba is a renowned warrior, emphasizing not just physical strength but also the bravery to remain resolute and advocate for justice.

Esu serves as the intermediary between the gods and humans, embodying the balance between light and shadow, order and chaos. He is the protector of crossroads and plays a crucial role as a mediator, gatekeeper, and adviser to Shango, offering valuable guidance and insights.

Babalu Aye, the Orisha of sickness and healing, is respected for his ability to both cause and cure illnesses. He is depicted as an elderly man with sores, symbolizing the diseases over which he presides. Babalu Aye is known for his compassion towards humanity and his healing powers.

Oya, associated with winds, lightning, storms, and feminine strength, is revered as the queen of the Winds. A powerful and independent warrior queen, Oya controls natural phenomena and is known for her ability to protect against enemies and evil spirits. She serves as the protector of the cemetery and the ancestors, guiding and protecting souls during their transition to the afterlife.

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