Wisdom Of The Orishas

256 Meditations On The Ẹẹ́rìndínlógún

De: Philip Ryan Deal, Imọlẹ̀gbọ́n Awolowo Ifabileke, Ifágúnwà Omilana Ifabileke

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

The Orisha religion is a major world faith, standing alongside traditions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity. Originating in West Africa, archaeologists suggest it has been practiced since at least 500 BCE, though it is likely much older. During the transatlantic slave trade, the Orisha faith spread extensively to the Western Hemisphere, taking deep root in the Caribbean and Brazil. Today, it is known by many names, including Isese (the tradition), Cuban Ifa, Lucumí, Santería, Regla de Ocha, Candomblé, Umbanda, or simply the Orisha religion. After over twenty years of studying comparative religions, I find the Orisha faith most comparable to Taoism. Both are indigenous wisdom traditions that existed long before the rise of later pantheon religions. The Orisha faith is built upon the world’s oldest spiritual elements: animism, ancestor veneration, and mediumship. Over thousands of years, this foundation developed into the solid pantheon of powerful Orishas (deities) we know today. The influence of the Orishas is now reaching global pop culture: Shango, the god of thunder, appeared in Marvel comics' Thor Annual in 1982. Beyoncé’s 2020 film, Black Is King, streams on Disney+ and explicitly celebrates African culture with references to Orishas like Oshun, the goddess of love. Furthermore, the Orishas are a vital source of magic and spiritual power in Tomi Adeyemi's popular novel, Children of Blood and Bone, soon to be a major film. This book explores the oracle of the Orishas, offering deep insights into their teachings through philosophical reflections, journal prompts, and meditations.