Santería

Havana - Cuba - 0616

Trinidad-Santería (1)

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SanteriaBudo - 4

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Trinidad-Santería (2)

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Havana - Cuba - 0583

Santería, also known as Regla de Ocha or Lucumí, is a Afro-Cuban religion that blends Yoruba mythology, brought to the Caribbean by enslaved Africans, with elements of Roman Catholicism. Originating in Cuba during the late 16th century, Santería has since spread to other countries, particularly those with significant Afro-Cuban populations, including the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Beliefs and Practices

Santería is a polytheistic religion with a pantheon of deities known as Orishas, who are believed to act as intermediaries between humans and the supreme god, Olodumare. Each Orisha represents natural elements or human endeavors and possesses distinct personalities, sacred colors, and symbols. Some of the most venerated Orishas include Eleguá (guardian of crossroads), Oshún (goddess of love and fertility), Yemayá (mother of all and goddess of the sea), and Changó (god of thunder and lightning).

Followers of Santería, known as Santeros or Santeras, seek to build relationships with the Orishas through rituals, offerings (ebó), and divination. These practices are intended to guide the practitioners in their daily lives, protect them from harm, and bring them closer to achieving their personal and spiritual goals.

Rituals and Ceremonies

Santería rituals are complex and varied, often involving drumming, singing, and dancing to invoke the Orishas. Animal sacrifice is a significant aspect of some ceremonies, primarily as a means of offering to the Orishas. The religion also places a strong emphasis on the initiation process, known as asiento or hacer santo, which is considered a rebirth into a deeper spiritual life. This process involves several rituals, including the Kariocha, where the initiate becomes a Iyawó and is dedicated to an Orisha.

Divination

Divination is a central component of Santería, used to communicate with the Orishas and determine their will. The most common forms of divination are the Dilogún, which uses cowrie shells, and the Ifá, which involves a complex system of signs interpreted by a priest known as a Babalawo.

Syncretism

The syncretic nature of Santería is evident in the blending of Yoruba deities with Roman Catholic saints. This syncretism was initially a response to the suppression of African religions by colonial authorities and slave owners, who forced enslaved Africans to convert to Christianity. As a result, Orishas were often identified with corresponding saints to preserve the religion covertly. For example, Saint Barbara was syncretized with Changó, and Our Lady of Charity with Oshún.

Contemporary Issues

Santería has faced misconceptions and persecution, partly due to its secretive nature and practices like animal sacrifice. However, it has also gained recognition as a significant cultural and religious expression, contributing to the global understanding of Afro-Cuban heritage and spirituality.

See Also

• Afro-Cuban culture
• Yoruba religion
• Orisha
• Roman Catholicism in Cuba