Vodou's topics - tribe.net

Manzel Anayis?

2008-11-08T13:31:53Z

Is there a lwa named Manzel Anayis in Haitian Voudou? i´d like, please, to know some information about her.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Candomble tribe is moving to

2008-09-12T13:56:54Z

http://triberefugees.ning.com/group/orishaandcandombleinbrazil

Tribe has become too unreliable lately the server is not working properly. This new site is much better and we can upload videos music,, The focus of the group is slighly changed.. given the possibilities of interactive media.
check it out and give some feed back.

Although this tribe will remaIN OPEN i will not do much to expand it..

Axe Gamo de Xango

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

And while we're talking about charitable donations...

2008-09-01T02:00:59Z

This list comes from the lovely and talented Jessica Melusine (jessicamelusine.livejournal.com). If you'd like to do something to help New Orleans, here are a few good charities:

Gulf Restoration Network
http://www.healthygulf.org/

Habitat for Humanity New Orleans
http://www.habitat-nola.org/

New Orleans Public Library
http://www.nutrias.org

Enterprise Corporation of the Delta
http://www.ecd.org/

Backstreet Cultural Center
http://www.backstreetmuseum.org/

New Orleans Adolescent Hospital
http://www.volunteermatch.org/search/org6712.jsp

These are all registered charities, so no worries about your dollars being diverted for other purposes.

Let's keep praying that Gustav and Hannah don't do a number on the Big Easy -- but let's also be prepared for the worst should our prayers go unanswered.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Gustav, Hannah, and Solicitations for "Charitable Contributions"

2008-09-01T01:58:04Z

As hurricane season begins, so too do solicitations from con artists seeking to profit from Haitian misery. You sincerely want to do the right thing -- but how do you know that your contribution won't end up lining a scammer's pockets instead of helping hungry Haitians? How do you make sure that your donation dollar isn't used to fund someone else's religious or political agenda? And how can you make sure that your donations do the most good?

Here are a few organizations which have an excellent track record and which are lauded for their transparency and accountability: if you give your money here, you can rest assured that a sizeable percentage will go to those in need.

****

HANDS TOGETHER
http://www.handstogether.org/

A Springfield, Massachusetts nonprofit organization aimed at helping the poorest of Haiti's poor, Hands Together receives four stars from Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.org).

KIVA
http://www.kiva.org

Kiva is one of the leading microloan organizations. Instead of handouts, they offer small business loans to families and individual entrepreneurs. In time, one $25 donation could be used to fund a dozen different projects and help that many families out of poverty. Kiva works in many countries, including Haiti: I support them and would recommend them to others without hesitation.

LAMBI FUND
http://www.lambifund.org/

A developmental organization run by Haitians for Haitians; also highly rated by Charity Navigator.

MEDECINS SANS FRONTIERES/DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS
http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org

Winners of the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize, the French organization provides aid in nearly 60 countries to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe. MSF doctors go to places where angels fear to tread, bringing medical care without regard for race, creed, color or political affiliation.

*****
`
As for solicitations from other charities, here are a few guidelines.

* Ask them if they are a 501(c)(3) corporation. If they aren't, ask them why not. If they can't give you a good answer, or start getting defensive or hostile when you bring up the question, send your money elsewhere.

* Check their rating on Charity Navigator (http://www.charitynavigator.org). If they are not listed there, ask them why not. If they can't give you a good answer, or start getting defensive/hostile when you bring up the question, send your money elsewhere. (My wife also recommends networkforgood.org -- you can search charities by keyword if you're looking for ethical, vetted charities working in Haiti or other regions).

* Call their local police department. Ask them if this charity is registered in their jurisdiction: inform them of the solicitation you received and any other solicitations which were distributed. Be prepared to send copies of this solicitation and to answer further questions should an investigation commence. Your single report may not be enough to send the scammer to prison -- but if a pattern of phony solicitation and begging is established, police may very well take an interest in prosecution. (You may also want to contact your state attorney general: they may be interested to know that an unregistered nonprofit organization is soliciting donations in their state).

* Above all else, use common sense. Stories about starving Haitian children may be true but they aren't an acceptable answer to "so what percentage of money collected goes to feed Haitians?" Pictures of ragged urchins playing in ditches are not proof that your contribution will improve their lot. Fundraisers tend to focus on emotional hot topics, but if they can't provide some solid facts, plans and forecasts to go along with their threnody of woe, chances are good that they're conning you.

posted in Vodou - 3 replies

Learn Vodou from Elders at MySanteriaElite.net- member limit and seats are running out.

2008-08-31T15:20:38Z

Please visit www.mysanteriaelite.net for access to a private community of no more than 300 members where Vodou Priest of diffrent vodou traditions come together to dialogue, share and discuss topics pertaining to our african traditions...

Time is running out and memberships are filling up, come on board soon...

www.mysanteriaelite.net

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Your Godparents, Godbrothers and Godchildren

2008-08-31T15:15:44Z

Hi Abures,

First off I want to wish you a very Happy Labor Day Weekend!

I have been taking some time to think about what would be a great thing to offer those of you that may still be on the fence or thinking about coming on board to Mysanteria Elite.

While I was thinking and meditating on this new vision I had a very strong emotion come over me and told me that if I offer a good deed I should grant access to another.

You are probably wondering what this means and how it relates to your Godchildren, Godbrothers or Godparents and this is where I tell you. If you join today or at least before Sunday, August 31st for the full membership price, I will grant you a free coupon for your Godparent, Your Godbrother or your Godchild, its up to you to choose who you wish to bring on board.

I tell you that I am very proud of the accomplishments and the caliber of members that have joined us, while I plan to fix up the loose ends at mysanteria.com - Elite will be the place to be and I hope you can take advantage of this initiative before its too late, remember 300 is the number and we are definitely getting there. Once you sign up, e-mail me at webmaster@mysanteriaelite.net for your free coupon. Sign up by clicking the link below.

http://amember.mysanteriaelite.net/signup.php

Thanks!
Ruben
webmaster@santeriareligion101.com

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Linglessou

2008-08-19T15:14:22Z

Can somebody tell me something about this lwa named Linglessou, as far as i have heard or seen, i have been told, that there is a family of lwas with that common name, and common hints, because Linglessou is a fierce lwa, strong and hard. That´s all i know, if somebody knows anything else, i would apreciate your help.

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Vodou vs Palo

2008-07-27T18:05:15Z

It seems like A LOTt of people in Palo dont respect anybody who is not of cuban decent when it comes to not speaking spanish or whatever the lame excuse it may be and lets not bullshit around WE ALL KNOW ITS TRUE,,, but in the Vodou, you learn creole and all things from the "whole congregation" concerning a minimum amount of secrets concerning different nations of the Lwa from Rada, Petro, Kongo, Ibo and all the other thousands of Vodou nations. Meanwhile those who are very knowledgeable in Palo with only once nation of Kongo want to take their time in training their house members and being selfish in other ways. Palo could be practiced like Vodou but we all know why it's not but in my eyes that is no excuse why a lot of paleros and paleras should be " poowerless " without a ganga. This is the said reason why people treat Palo like it's some type of stepping stone just to make Ocha which is seriously ridicules and then people got the nerve to argue for years about Palo and Santo not being the same which is true. Meanwhile Vodou Kanzo candidates are literately walking thru FIRE learning, sacrificing goats, bulls, pigs, and basically working some strong Lwas, while paleros are giving their Nkisis a chicken or two and calling it a day. FUCK THAT. It's a wonder why us Blacks are the sole rulers of this universe while other nationalities imitate and wish to be as "aggressive" as a Black King or Queen. AS YOU CAN SEE I AM TIRED OF YOU " CERTAIN WEAK SPANISH ELDERS " who think shit is a game and bullshit around, Time waits for nobody and patience is not relevant in this case. You got to be warriors if your going to practice an Afrikan Traditional Religion which is a WARRIOR way of life!!! I am not speaking about all paleros but a certain select few and YES we all can name who they are including the ones who brag about how secret this is and how secret that is, DONT MAKE ME SMACK YOUR SPIRIT INTO A GRAVE FOR ME TO DIG UP YOUR BONES FOR SOME REAL WORK. A lot of these "CERTAIN" spanish paleros front like they got all the secrets with a nganga and can't be touched. DON'T BE FOOLED, A VODOU BOKOR WILL ALWAYS HAVE YOUR FIRST CLASS TICKET INTO GRAVEYARD IF YOU EVER COME OUT YOUR FACE WRONG. I'm not speaking to anybody in particular but only a select few all around the world. Excuse my bad language but the shit has got me real heated and got me ready to start targeting these " powerful paleros " who think they the shit that be disrespecting Black people in their own little selfish way and non of you would want that, I sware to you. A certain amount of you better stop that shit. you can pull that shit with everybody else but never a Bokor and if you like anything I just said too damn bad. I SPEAK WITH LICENSE

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Please help me.

2008-07-18T00:19:48Z

Dear All,

I really seek your help as my heart is bleeding for the man I love.

My boyfriend left me and is seeing another women. He has been unfaithful to me and says he cannot help this.

He wants to stop being unfaithful to me and wants to return to me but feels he has hurt me too much.

When my father passed away he was there and comforted me through my difficulities and when I was near to death he safed me.

I beg of you to help me with a very strong love spell for him to return to me and love me very much that he is crazy for me. I want him to remain faithful.

He does not want to see me much as he feels to ashamed in what he has done to me and has cried for me.

He interest and attention for me is still there but I felt last week when I wanted to see him, he told me he could not as he was with a women.

Please help me.

Thank you.

Zoey

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Voodoo people in the Bay Area?

2008-06-09T05:23:03Z

Hello,

I am searching for houses and practitioners in the Bay Area and specifically in East Bay, CA?

Blessings,
Karuna

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Introduction

2008-05-30T13:23:55Z

Bonswa - I would like to quickly introduce myself. My nom vayan in Mambo Pa Trop Presse or Mambo Jenn. I was intiated at the rank of Mambo si pwen in Jacmel, Haiti in June of 2000 by Houngan Danise David. I received initiation as a Mambo Asogwe and the asson from the hands of Papa Loko via my Mamman Marie Carmel and Sosyete Bel Fle Ginea in Port-au-prince, Haiti in June of 2006. Peace and Blessings to all who serve the lwa.

One e Wespe -
Mambo Pa Trop Presse

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

alter building

2008-05-27T18:43:54Z

just curious as to some of your techniques to alter building. I live in jacksonville, fl and we have a santeria shop i use for candles and beads, I also have some animal skulls i've found, not too mention a bottle of rum. I just found a place called Ashanti's African Boutique, but am yet to visit. hopefully I'll find something there appropriate for mr. legba. i've heard there are some online shops out of new orleans but they are hit or miss as far as authenticity.

posted in Vodou - 26 replies

Altar and Shrine Building.......and ONLY Altar and Shrine Building

2008-05-25T19:22:16Z

Ok, while reading the other post that began with a simple question on how to contruct an altar to honor the God, the Lwa, and the Ancestors, it became clear that somewhere we had taken a very, very wrong turn indeed. Now since this is the Vodou tribe, please only post about the design and construction of Hatian Vodou altars and shrines. I understand that alot of us are also iivolved in Orisha traditions and Palo, as am I, but they have their own tribes. The reason I want to revisit the topic i beacuse I love to build altars and shrine, and my house might as well be a temple, so I would love to hear what others have to add about how to design, furnish, construct, and keep-up with an altar or shrine.

I personally love working with Catholic images, as I am catholic myself, but some are not confortable with this type of imagery, so while Catholic saints are all over my altars, they may not have a place on others. When ever I first get the idea to make an altar or shrine one of the first thing I do is to find out which saints fit that Lwa, and which ones have traditionally been used as their symbol, then track down a statue of that saint ( sometimes this is easier said than done, like when I spent weeks looking for a St. Ulrich statue for my Met Agwe altar.) Some other items are fans in the colors of the Lwa, and of course lots of white and appropriately colored candles. Also, items taken from nature, or a place that is symbolic of the Lwa are great, (feathers for Erzulie-Freda, leave garlands for Gran Bwa, shells for LaSarine and LaBaline, etc)

And while having an elder or mambo is very good for building orthodox altars, it is my no means imperative to the process, especially for a beginner.

much love

Lucie

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

May Rain

2008-05-23T16:51:43Z

In Puerto Rico they have a saying that the first rain in May is a good luck rain and that if you bath yourself it, all the bad vibes/evil eye will go away and luck with start to come. I remember when I was a little girl living on the island people would get out big buckets to collect the May rain for spells or cleanings. Now I have asked my mother where does this come from and she does not know. She told me that’s what her parents use to tell her to do. Has anyone here heard of this? And where does it come from?

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Goetia/Voudou connection

2008-05-23T16:49:30Z

I've thought of this myself and were discussing it on some other outlets, so I thought I would share a link on the subject, he's not any sort of authority, but sometimes it's best to just put things out there, he shows a veve and a goetic seal:

http://www.frateralastor.com/veve.htm

This link is old but there are a few too many similarities between vodou veve's and goetic sigils of evocation.

Many of the entities share the same common goal.

So let your theories fly, which came first the chicken or the egg?

posted in Vodou - 14 replies

Hi everyone! Just wanted to get the word out....

2008-05-10T06:08:04Z

Finally there is a dating site that caters to people who practice afro-Caribbean religions. It is completely free and also very new, so we are just trying to get the word out. If you know anyone single please pass it along. thanks.

http://lucumiluv.ning.com/

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Babalawo or no Babalawo?

2008-04-30T06:23:32Z

This started as a response to a thread in another tribe, but it's a recurring question that is sometimes controversial, although it should not be. The Babalawo and Olorisa are complementary attributes of divine order. They are obliged to work together.

Traditionally, wherever Ifa worship exists, the Babalawo is consulted at LEAST before any important ritual is performed. When the head of any orisa temple is preparing to celebrate his or her annual festival (ocha birthday), Ifa is consulted. When the King is preparing to celebrate the annual festival of the kingdom, he consults Ifa first. When someone wants to know which orisa dwells within him or her, that person cosults Ifa FIRST. This is because Ifa is the spokesman of Olodumare (God Almighty).

Each orisa has his or her dominion: some are masters of the river spirits, others are masters of fire spirits. Ifa is THE medium of communication between Olodumare and the orisa, between the orisa and humanity and between the orisa themselves. ALL forms of Yoruba divination are derivatives of Ifa. No exceptions. So, the Babalawo is the closest to the spirit of divination, the word of Olodumare.

Think of it in terms of any profession. Anyone can fix their own plumbing. anyone can represent himself in a court of law. Anyone can perform medical procedures on himself. But if you want the best practices in any discipline, you go to the professional who is dedicated to that discipline. You want the professional who has the highest authorization, the most complete resources and the best connections to allow him to make DEFINITIVE descisions on the issue at hand. Ifa is the definitive system of Yoruba divination.

Once Ifa has spoken, he will relate the needs and requisites of the various orisa. The orisa speak through Ifa. Ifa is the head. Orisa is the body. Ifa decides. Orisa acts.

Hope this helps,

Awo Femi

posted in Vodou - 8 replies

Simbi Makaya

2008-04-03T02:51:47Z

Helo everyone..i have a question..hopeing someone from this tribe can help me here..Im very close to the Simbi family but still learning about them..Im very close with the female form...you guys would know her as Mama Wata..or Mama Simbi...and so on..i know about Simbi Andezo..but theres a big mystery behind this lwa..and its diffrent paths and family roots..Dose anyone out there can share some light on the path od Simbi Makaya.

posted in Vodou - 10 replies

Colorado?

2008-03-29T20:26:52Z

Greetings to all. I would greatly appreciate any information on temples or groups working with the spirits in Colorado. I have had no luck finding anything.I wish to pursue an educated and proper relationship with the spirits.

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Babaluaye

2008-03-21T19:43:28Z

I posted this in another thread but thought it was really it's own. I have always been curious as to whether Babaluaye/ Asojano and his family Nanume, Nana Buruku are worshipped in Haiti. From the Afro-Cuban perspective they are the principle Fon divinities, Voduces, but I never heard of anything about them in Haitian Vodou. Do you think they were absorbed in a way into Guede? The Guede always seem a little like Babaluaye to me with their relationship to death, the anscestors, sexuality and healing which are very Babaluaye fields. Also the multiple personalities since he has many roads. Any thoughts?

posted in Vodou - 4 replies

Contacting Dead relatives...

2008-03-19T19:28:49Z

I'm interested in making a connection with my deceased grandmother. She died when I was 6 months old. Can anyone point me towards a body of knowledge or rituals to accomplish this?

Thanks

posted in Vodou - 45 replies

Spirits of Life

2008-03-11T16:49:20Z

Soul Jazz Records pressents: "Spirits of Life- Haitian Vodou". I found this at the library and I really like it. Unlike "Rhythms of Rapture" and "Angels in the Mirror" (both of which I also really like), the style is more uniform rather than diverse. I suppose it may also be more traditional as the other two include lots of experimentation with modern music, because "Spirits of Life" reminds me more of Cuban Santeria style drumming and singing. Well, all I really have to go off of is Lydia Cabrera's recordings...
I would always read the opening chant of "Papa Legba, ouvri baye; Atibon Legba ouvri baye pou moin" etc. in books but never really knew how the vocal chorus went. They sing it on this CD and it sounds really pretty. Helps me realize the limits of my imagination!
However, the list of songs are mismatched- terribly. I mean, it is written that this somgs if for Agoue Damballah or Erzulie Ti Jean and when you listen it will be singing the name of a totally different lwa!
Still, I really like it and recommend it.
Of course, if you are a snob about these things and this music is really trash please let me know as well.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

an interesting photodocumentary

2008-03-02T02:27:19Z

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYWFL3Bj2LU

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Rhythms of Rapture

2008-02-25T22:27:06Z

Portland public library has a copy of "Rhythms of Rapture" on CD- I had this about 10 years ago. I like the music on this as well as "Angels in the Mirror". It even provides a fun way to start learning Kreyol... or maybe just langaj?
I noticed that Matisou Legba was in Boukan Ginen (I also read that he was in Boukman Eksperyans as well)- he was one of the drummers/spokesmen that came to KU when I lived in Lawrence, Kansas. He was part of a 2 day presentation to talk about the history and current political situation of Haiti, and the second day was devoted to lectures on Vodou. There was a short class on drumming and dancing for the Lwa although there were no real ceremonies and therefore no possessions occured.
It was rumored that they were attempting to move to Lawrence and start up a new rock band called Azaka, but that didn't happen while I was still living there (2001-2004). The name would have been very fitting as the Kansas prairie was like one great big desert of wheat.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

New Orleans Voodoo Tarot?

2008-02-17T21:29:38Z

Ok.. I know many of you here are very very knowledgeable of Traditional Voudoun and it's inner workings. So I want to ask you about my way of working with this tool and any advice or other techniques etc etc.

The way I plan on utilizing the tool is to learn more about the loas and contacting them. I work from a chaos magick paradigm (which one, hah) and freestyle shamanism bent. What I intend to do is begin with consulting this tarot and using some of the rites from the appendices. Then supplementing my contact with some pendulum consultations with loa to find out what sacrifices or rites that I could perform to bring about a closer relationship. This technique was used by a friend of mine for quite sometime and I feel that some of you could shed more light on it for me or warn me of potential pitfalls.

Another question I have... is there a good resource for drum patterns for specific loa? outside of going to a rite? I create electronic music (Industrial and noise) and I think I may try experimenting with the "possesion of the hands" concept to create electronic rhythms to accompany my later rituals. Are there specific loa that teach rhythms? Any advice is welcome.

Sorry if my lines of questioning are offensive to traditions or otherwise insulting. I am just very interested in a tradition that seems so Alive and that's what has sparked my interest in voudoun.

posted in Vodou - 10 replies

Gran Bwa

2008-02-12T10:43:19Z

Does anyone here know anything about Gran Bwa? I am very close to him but do not have any traditional training..

-Vel

posted in Vodou - 5 replies

Damien's questions

2008-02-06T02:59:41Z

1. How does a Mambo and Houngan determine who the Met Tet of the individual is?

During initiation they watch all kinds of signs and eventually the spirit may actually even show up and claim the person. Or spirits like Ogou Feray or Gede who interact more with people will come and tell them while monte chwal.

2. For what circumstances does a Mambo and Houngan do a reading,

I assume here you mean a general reading for work? Basically they will do a reading for any clients who come to ask for their help.

3. and why do they usually use a pack of playing cards instead of cowrie shells?

There is a legend about this, it comes down to the lwa gave the houngan and manbo the gift of "eyes" so they can see without the shells.

3. What exactly is the difference between Orisha and Lwa?

Different tribes, different cultures, different histories. You might ask what is the difference between the lwa and the daimonae of the Greeks for that matter.. Haitian priests seem to have interesting things to say.

4. How were the Dahomeans influenced by the Yoruba,

They were two cultures in proximity to one another in West Africa, and loaned words etc back and forth.. there are a ton of books in a good academic library on West Africa and the history.

5. and why did the Haitians prefer to let their New World traditions evolve from the former

In the areas around Port Au Prince, the root houses were based on Dahomean enclaves, and the asson tradition specifically comes out of that root.. in other parts of Haiti other nations predominate, like the Ibo-Kongo in the north, and there is a root house, I forget which one (Souvenans? pulling that out of my crack pretty much.. so it's probably wrong) that is almost entirely Nago.

6. while the Cubans prefered the latter?

Cuba had a higher proportion of Yoruba than anyone else. But like in Haiti it depends on what part of the island you are on. Havana is more priveleged and traditions around there gained prominence, other parts of Cuba I'm told are more Kongo or more Dahomean depending on what groups collected in what areas.

7. As more Cubans and Haitians relocate to the United States, and as more Americans take interest in both, these are questions that will be of great interest and importance.

I'm not sure these are so important, they are pretty basic to me but then I had the benefit of hanging out with an houngan nearly every day or several times a week to hang out for a number of years running, plus the benefit of talking to Shloma a lot about Ocha.

posted in Vodou - 9 replies

"The Vodou Quantum Leap"

2008-01-25T19:32:59Z

has anybody else read this book?

posted in Vodou - 8 replies

When/How to Speak

2008-01-14T03:54:51Z

There's a larger problem here though.

For some reason, it really is remarkably difficult to get a discussion going on this forum--much more so than other ATR forums on tribe, where I've seen very lively and cordial exchanges.

Part of it is an experience gap--it is next to impossible for a non initiate to get good information about vodou. Books won't take you very far at all, as Damien has discovered. Most of vodou simply isn't _in_ books. You have to be there. So people ask, and this is one place to ask.

Generally, it's hard to get answers. Other people who have read other books might respond as best they can--but there's the same literary echo chamber problem. Mike almost invariably responds, but his tone can be pretty off-putting.

I think you're being a bit hard on Travis, Kathy. Historically, he's been one of the few people here willing, able, and available to give good and complex information in a pleasant and informative tone. Admittedly, he's sounded pretty terse in his last couple of posts, but that's uncharacteristic.

I respond because I like talking to people about these things and have a good intuitive sense, but I'm not a vodou initiate. I'm not even an ATR initiate.

Kathy, in your last couple of posts you re-emphasize that the purpose of this list is to discuss vodou (and not other traditions). You also point out that you and Mike are vodou initiates (and Travis is not). In context, this implies that your words and Mike's carry more authority on this list than the words of others. I'm not sure if you meant to imply that or not, but that is one possible inference to draw.

Although I do my best to be mannerly and contribute positively, and I know that you and I are on good terms, this makes me--non vodou and non-ATR practitioner, feel a bit marginalized, and less inclined to speak. I'm pretty sure that that wasn't your intention,. but I think that clarification might be good.

The problem with restricting discussion on this list strictly to vodou is that that restricts participation in that discussion to vodou initiates. The rest of us either just don't know enough, or necessarily speak out of other traditions. So you end up with even fewer people with anything much to say on an already very quiet list.

Mind you, I like it quiet. I'm here and not on the larger, more active ATR and pagan lists. But I'd also like to feel like anybody is welcome to speak, everybody is respected, and that we all have something to learn from each other.

If that is also your goal, how do we actively foster that here?

posted in Vodou - 20 replies

anyone read "vodou quantum leap"?

2008-01-13T21:58:42Z

and have a well-thought opinion or perspective on it? apparently the author tries to show relationships between vodou and quantum physics...

posted in Vodou - 4 replies

Andre Pierre

2008-01-11T20:54:13Z

here are some links to this amazing Haitian artist.

http://haitianartsociety.org/photo.html

galeriedartnader.com/pierreAndre-2401.jpg
(this site is difficult to navigate- or amybe just TOO slow, but this is a portrait of Loko)

galeriedartnader.com/Pierre-andre.jpg
(this is really cool- but I'm not sure who the male Lwa behind the cannon is, first left on boat- is this Legba? Then follows Agwe, Sobo and Bade, Ogou Balindjo- I often like playing guess that Lwa with some of his paintings)

http://www.artshaitian.com/Pages/haitianartapierre.html

http://www.discoverhaiti.com/images/arts_Andre-Pierre.jpg
(here's another guess that Lwa painting. Left to right: Legba?, Ogou Sen Jak?, no idea who any of the three women are, Ogou Feray?, Agarou, Sobo and Bade?)

http://www.discoverhaiti.com/images/arts_Andre-Pierre.jpg

So, should I just start posting these paintings on Vodou tribe photo section, since no one said that there would be any thing wrong with it? It would also be nice if there were many more veves posted on this tribe's photo secton, like on the Vodu Gede Fetish one. Why has there been so few pictures posted for this tribe?

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Legba and Ellegua

2008-01-07T03:25:59Z

Damien asked "One other thing that I am very curious about is: since there are clay heads of Legba all over the People's Republic of Benin in temples and outside of homes, why is it that Haitian Vodous never adopted something similar to the Ellegua clay heads of Cuba?"

The answer is that they are different islands with histories. St Domingue was known as the most brutally oppressive slave colony in the West Indies. It was safer and more expedient just to go with the St Lazarus image for the Rada and St Peter for the Petwo.

When a Legba is mounted in someone's house or on an altar tho, by an houngan or manbo, which is a way of installing a lwa in a place in a more permanent fashion, a coconut is used where in Cuba they would use the cement head. You might notice that a cocunut has 3 dots that look like two eyes and mouth just like the cement head has 3 shells.

- mike

posted in Vodou - 15 replies

Agarou Tonnere

2008-01-05T01:50:31Z

(As I already have plenty of advice and info on initiation and searching for a Vodou "godfather", please read and answer this question if you have any answers without recommendations toward initiations and vodou sponsorship- thank you)

I am interested in learning more about Agarou Tonnere from a Haitian initiate who might have first hand contact with this Lwa. When I was 8 I was invited to a protestant Sunday school. I was baptised Catholic. I had fun that morning. When I came home I was locked out the house and no one was home. I climbed the fence to break into my room through the window. My pants snagged on the wrought iron fence and I fell. That was my first astral experience. In my astral body I saw my dog run to me, and shortly after, my sister came home and carried me into the living room. I watched us from above and felt my astral body pulled to my physical body as I revived.
Later, when reading about Agarou Tonerre, I learned that Vodous who tried to convert to protestantism were often punished by Agarou, one person hitting their head on a rock!
In Andre Pierre's painting "Vodou Pantheon", Agarou is a female in white robe with red head wrap, and a cane shooting out lightning bolts. In in Rada altar there is a waitress style dress with Agarou's veve- the dress is black, red and blue- anything else, people?

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Dr. Rayman Caiman

2008-01-04T23:51:58Z

Has any one noticed Dr. Rayman Caiman's Vodou flash art set?
I don't know what to think of them... on one hand I am impressed by them, but some how they also seem a little disrespectful of the Lwa in their presentation. Google it, and let me know what you think, please.
And again, has any one Googled Andre Pierre and his paintings. No one has told me if it would be a copyright violation to put his portraits of the Lwa on this tribe.
Ayibobo!

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Angels Big and Small

2007-12-19T09:37:25Z

Can any one here give accurate detailed definitions of ti bon ange and gros bon ange? So much of what I've read is very vague, or it seems that the two often get confused. I know that one translates as "good little angel" and the other "good great angel"; and that one gets set aside during possession so that the Lwa may temporarily take it's place. Or maybe some one can recommend a web link?

posted in Vodou - 17 replies

Haitian Vodou Handbook in stores now

2007-12-17T00:49:48Z

http://www.amazon.com/o/ASIN/1594771251/ref=pd_rvi_gw_1/103-1863374-7366266

The veves were drawn by our erstwhile moderator, Kathy Latzoni: Shannon McRae offered invaluable advice on an earlier draft of this manuscript.

posted in Vodou - 7 replies

Spiritual Writers Contest

2007-10-14T22:00:03Z

Greetings,

In honor of the 7th Annual Community Ancestral Feast hosted by Forces of Nature Metaphysical and Spiritual Center of Seattle, WA ,SpiritMovin, a group dedicated to writings related to african and native spirituality, is holding a contest for writing that relates how your Ancestors have helped you to overcome adversity, protected you, or warned you of an impending situation that required your attention.

You may submit up to 3 entries, none to exceed 1000 words.

To enter go to this link:

www.writerscafe.org/contests/2768/

Live Peacefully,
Forces of Nature Metaphysical and Spiritual Center
Seattle WA

www.fonspiritualcenter.org

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

More on Obeah

2007-10-10T19:21:51Z

I just joined this tribe and would like to extend a greeting - Hello and thank you.

After going to Jamaica for a while and living in the Coastal South for years, I was exposed to only a few glimpses are references to Obeah. From what I've understood about it, from being in those places, Obeah is highly respected, but treated like a snake by many; only approached sometimes, and always at a distance.

I would like to see if anyone knows any more indepth resources on Obeah, I've googled most of what I could find on the net, including articles of it's influence in the West Indies and Caribe.

If you know of Obeah, please share.

Thank you again,
Will

posted in Vodou - 4 replies

Dreaming of the loa

2007-10-04T01:47:34Z

I'm slade, and I am not sure if I have posted here before or not ( I have sporadic Net access). Okay, recently I have been having multiple dreams concerning the loa. this is not the first time I have dreamed of them, as some of them approach me in dreams to communicate with me. But these dreams seem a little different.

In the first one, I was listening to a woman I knew was a Mambo (not a person from my "real life"), and she was holding both my hands and telling me that "I was the strongest of them" (I understood this to mean in a past life) and that "they needed me" (which I understood to mean as they (loa??) needed me in this life). I do not remember what else she said, but the above was the most important.

A few days later i had a similar dream with similar content, but I do not remember the details.

A few days later, I dreamed I was in the cemetery walking in circles around the graves of my paternal grandmother and grandfather. I got the strong feeling from this that I need to set up a shrine to them (which I will do).

I emailed a Mambo I know slightly in new orleans and asked her opinion, but she did not respond. She may have just been busy or maybe it was inappropriate to ask, I don't know. I am not sure what I need to do, if anything. Any thoughts on this?

Thanks!
slade

posted in Vodou - 10 replies

houngans/mambos in chicago

2007-08-17T04:10:34Z

are there any houngans/mambos out there in the chicagoland area?

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Tonight in the East Bay!!!

2007-08-10T22:41:38Z

Come As You Are Coven welcomes you to

Ancestors & Orishas New Moon Circle
August 10, 2007
8 PM sharp (doors are locked at 8:15 when we cast the circle)
Berkeley Yoga Studio C
2121 Bonar St (directions below)
Berkeley
$10
____________________________________________________________________________

Have you been wanting to work with Oya, Chango, Oshun or some of the
many other Orisha, but have been scared they would "kick your
butt?!!!"
Are you fearful of being accused of appropriation, or going outside
your tradition?
Not familiar with who the Orisha are or what they represent?

Fear No more!!!

CAYA - Come As You Are - offers a New Moon ritual where we discover
the beauty, power and love of the Orisha. Reclaim your power, memory
and connection to the Ancestors!!!

This week we will invite to work with us Papa Legba, also known as
Esu, and Elegba.
The Guardian of the Cross Roads, The Messenger, the Trickster!
Come and join us in getting in touch with our trickster energy!
Discover the power and the mystery of Bugs Bunny, Anansi, and many
other legendary tricksters!!!
Discover an Ally who can help you not only open doors but discover the
right one for you to go through!

Please bring drums, rattles, and other noisemaking devices, your own
folding chair if it is uncomfortable to sit on pillows on the floor,
and anything you wish to place on the altar.
__________________________________________________________________________

Directions: Drive on 80 till you reach the University Avenue exit.
Take University toward the campus. Make a right on Bonar (at the Shell
Station) and go one block till you reach Addison. The Studio is in
Strawberry Creek Design Center.

Take BART to North Berkeley. Walk up Sacramento to University. Make a
right and walk down to Bonar. Make a left on Bonar and walk on block
to Addison. The Studio is on your left in Strawberry Creek Design
Center.

Take 51 Bus to exit nearest Bonar (at the Shell Station.) Follow
walking directions above. For info, please call Rabbit 510-355-7912

Website: http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/CAYACoven

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

A couple of Vodou-related events in the fall (Maryland and New Mexico)

2007-06-27T00:37:41Z

On October 11-14, Kenaz and I will offer a workshop track at Mythical Journeys, a three-day intensive event held in Darlington, Maryland. There are only a few spaces left in our track -- and the all-inclusive price is quite reasonable -- so if you're interested you may want to sign up soon.

http://www.freespiritgathering.org/fallevent/vodoun.html

If you live on the West Coast, don't despair; Kenaz will be presenting at the Albuquerque Voodoo Conference on October 26-29.

http://www.spellmaker.com/VoodooConvention/interest.htm

If anyone has any questions, feel free to send them our way. If we can't answer, we'll try to put you in touch with the organizers.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

devil, spirit world etc

2007-06-10T06:19:04Z

I have an interest in this because I am dealing with some schizoid delusions (or realities) involving the selling of my soul to the devil and subsequent damnation and the waiting for death so i can burn for all eternity. I am starting to learn about jung and reality tunnels as well as other form of spirituality like shamanism, egyptian meditiation, voudon palo, and lukumi and I am not sure if the voices i hear are real or not, or who they are. But I seem to have a conscious in my mind that tells me i have sold my soul and am damned and heading for hell. Sometimes he identifies himself as satan, many times he calls himself "me."

I have several theories as to why all this is happening. I have led up till recently a life containing a caustic family realtionship. I fought and argued with my brother and parents for many years and I am very ashamed of the evilI I have comitted verbally and in the uncontrolled use of my temper.

I now fear it is too late since this is what the voices tell me. I initially began having enormous dread in crowds and hearing a dark male voice telling me bad things about myself. this was under the influence of marijuana. At this time my family issues were not being adequately worked on and I was struggling in college.

Eventually, when high, the voice identified himself as the devil. One time, when high I sold him my soul and immediately knew that i was going to hell and going to burn for all time.

A lot of this might have to do with imprinting of religious ideas and projections. The actuall beings i hear may be thought complexes or personalities from my collective unconscious that have found my ego and like to intrude on it.

I have heard schizoid thought is a defense mechanism that is caused by stress and that this is my particular defense mechanism. I am convinced my family relationship and negative actions influenced this whole process.

I am wondering if you understand or can offer any insight into this. And if you can point me to any authors or thinkers or philosophies that could provide assistance.

I was wondering if this is my personal god or lower power, and is it evil and mean becauseI was evil and mean? OR is this the inner power that was in my since birth that has shaped my actions from the unconscious since birth. (I often think i am a demon, or was just born bad, and the voice often agrees that I am demonic or a bad seed)

In public i am distraught because I think I have connections with other lost souls who are also grimly awaiting merciless punishment in hell.

I also hear voices in public that make me think i am picking up other peoples thoughts but only if the thoughts have to do with my status as a damned soul, a person that "is finished" and that "nothing can be done for."

Well I just wanted to see if you could offer any advice.

thank you,

posted in Vodou - 4 replies

A friend in need of serious help

2007-06-07T05:01:43Z

I have a friend who is in serious trouble and needs help. A lot of help. He is psychically attacked by his landlady and this since months back. She has harassed him, and sucked his energy for months. He has worked his ass off for her for months and this is how it ends. Maybe one of you can help him somehow. This is a letter he received from her today when he came back from work. At the end he attached his own notes. You are more then welcome to mail me if you have any suggestions.

Letter from B. W. dated 6/6/07

I read your letter. When I agreed to let you rent the apartment it was for $700/month. This was reduced if you did the landscaping. The $700 goes back to October. Since you are not able to fulfill your part of this verbal agreement you owe the $100 from October through May.
That would be $700 minus the $100 dollars in the envelope. You did not inform me of all your physical problems when you moved into my home. You still owe $300 on the deposit.

I rented to you are the praises of your friends T. and J. Also, T. K. said you were a professor. He also suggested cutting the rent if you do the landscaping. It was his suggestion along with T. and J., that I rented to you. You have said you would give me a Curriculum vitae(?) and the one you showed me was not up to standard. But I will let that ride for now.

The water bill is going up 48% and the NIPSCO (gas and electric) bill is going up. This means my bills will go up. The rent will have to be increased.

Also, Please do not involve my friends in my business. I do not appreciate your using her and be manipulative. T. K. is another one you have talked about my affairs with. My business is my business.
You are a big boy so act like one.
I am sorry you are not well. You did not inform me of your ails when you moved into my home. You have stressed me physically and emotionally with your actions and your negative attitude. I cough when I am stressed. I am tired of this business so I think for yourself and my health you should move on. Perhaps, the U of C. San Diego would like to have you rejoin their faculty.

This is the letter a received after working with mentally impaired teenagers all day long. I broke my finger planting flowers for B. S. can testify as to my work well over $100 that I have done each and every month since I have moved in here..weather it was wracking leaves or shoveling snow..I have worked more than $100 worth of work each month. Because I broke my finger doing her landscaping I am unable to do more work for her but I assure you the landscaping completed would cost 400-500 dollars at least.
I told her on the phone if she wished to get a lawyer he can contact me and that all further conversations should be in written word.
I never taught at the U of C San Diego and for those who have read my Curriculum vitae you will find it on my web page, it is still under construction but I think you will find no one has worked harder and been more professional in academia.
I have no money for food since starting work my food stamps are gone, my unemployment check is gone...so A guy from work lent me some money for food..I stopped at Walmart to buy her a hose for watering out of the kindness of my heart and money I did not have...arriving home to this letter. Yes, my friend has offered shelter in Sweden, but I have worked for this woman all winter and spring and all to enjoy Lake Michigan that lies just a few steps away. I worked for summer peace. I just got home from a hard day of work with a 12 hour shift tomorrow. Please send what protection you can my way..and if your a lawyer send advice.
Thank you

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Get your Mojo Flowin'

2007-04-26T02:58:12Z

Dear Group and Moderator,

Just recently came across a call for some healing sexual energy needed to help promote world peace, balance and Mother Earth.

Between Nov. 17 to Dec. 22, Get your mojo flowing.....Concentrate on a thought of helping the planet before, during or after self -love or partnered love sessions. For more info, www.globalorgasm.com

As a daughter of Oshun, I will do my part to help out and do see a need for more love and happiness.

Thanks for helping get the word out!

posted in Vodou - 7 replies

study

2007-03-12T17:54:27Z

I am new to this energy but I feel a connection. Does anyone know any places to study in Atlanta?

peace

leigh

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Vodou World

2007-02-23T03:47:24Z

Visit our website
http://www.vodouworld.com

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Graveyard dirt swap!

2007-02-06T18:31:12Z

So I was just lamenting how hard it is to find graveyard dirt from certain graves just when you need it. With that in mind, I thought we could offer to collect some to mail to each other. The idea is we post what we need and/or what we can get and hopefully somebody can help us out.

At this point I'm in desperate need of graveyard dirt from a poet's grave. Most any poet of repute will do. If you live in or near Aspen, CO, there's one in particular there that would be especially perfect. If you're in NYC, there are also a number of good poets resting there.

As for what I can offer, I live in Alabama and can help out with needs here. I also live just a few hours from New Orleans and I'm planning a trip there soon, so I'm planning to collect there, especially near Marie Laveau's tomb (with, of course, a big offering of whiskey!).

So if you can help out or if you have anything else to offer or that you'd like, join the thread!

posted in Vodou - 7 replies

Last-minute plug for K's radio appearance (and Mambo Blu's art)

2007-01-31T03:31:29Z

Speaking of Vodou, here's a shameless last-minute plug for my domestic partner's radio interview tonight (she's the author of _The Haitian Vodou Handbook_):

---------

http://www.healing-visions.com/radio.html

I (Kenaz, that is) will be on the air a little after 11p Eastern time (8p Pacific) and will be on until midnight/9p. If you want to call in and chat, the number is 800.920.3717. This is my first online radio interview, so please be gentle.

--------

...and, while we're at it, another shameless plug for my initiatory godmother's Vodou bottles:
http://labelleboutey.com

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Perfume Offerrings

2007-01-31T00:27:47Z

Besides the usual Florida Water, I know that there are some specific perfumes for certain lwa. Like Anais Anais for Ezili Freda. And Reve D'Or for Ezili Dantor. I've heard that Bain de Champagne (that comes in a cute little champagne bottle) has been used for some rites. Also, I've seen older accounts of Chanel No. 5 being sloshed out for rituals.
I'm curious about the Caron Bain de Champagne if anyone knows about it. Anyone out there in tribeland have any experience with these commercial products being adopted for spiritual uses?

posted in Vodou - 8 replies

Vodou Chat room LIVE!!!

2007-01-21T10:35:23Z

Bon jou oui,

As you may know MSN and Yahoo no longer have chat room created by
its Members. We feel it will be a great idea to provide Vodouisants
w/ a chat room where they can make friends, network and teach others.
Former Yahoo and MSN users now frequent Buzzen which is similar to
MSN. This is where we have our Vodou Chat Room.
Please visit us when time permits and talk about Vodou Live.
Vodouisants w/ experience are encouraged to join to help the newbies
and of course feel free to advertise your Groups.
Two ways you can get to the Vodou Chat room
1) Go to www.Buzzen.com ~~> People & Chat (Located on Top) ~~>
Religion (located on the Mid-lower left) ~~~> and you should see the
room "Vodou"
2)The second way is to simply click on this link which will take you
directly to the Vodou Chat Room
http://www.buzzen.com/chat/chatroom.php?rhx=564f444f55

Oh and it is Free chat

Mesi anpil,

Move Tan Silans

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Authentic Mambo/Houngan in New Orleans or Atlanta

2007-01-03T17:10:15Z

Hi all--

I'm trying to find a good, genuine Mambo or Houngan. I live in Alabama, so New Orleans is not that far. Can someone recommend a worker in the area where I live? I'm within easy driving distance of New Orleans, Atlanta, and Nashville.

Thanks!

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

bamboulah

2006-12-11T04:25:57Z

any drummers or anyone for that matter know the chant and drum rhythms for bamboulah

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

New member

2006-11-21T18:31:42Z

Hello everyone.

My name is Jonathan and I'm looking for Vodou practicioners in the Chicago area.

I've been reading as much as I can about Vodou for the past few years, I've made a few trips to the Vodou oriented spots in NOLA (and yes, I do realize that these places are not representative of authentic Vodou), etc...I'm interested in taking my study further.

I have a very intense attraction to the Baron and the Gede family. I was actually born nearly 3 months early, on November 2nd. It's almost as if I was meant to be born that day, instead of the middle-end of January.

Anyone have any suggestions for me?

I've been answered by a few people from the Racine camp...but I've heard a lot of crazy stuff regarding that particular group. I have no idea if any of it's true or not, but what I do know is that when I do internet searches on Vodou, something related to her comes up EVERY TIME, and I can't decide if that's a good or bad thing.

So any advice or tips any one can share would be incredibly helpful.

Thanks!

posted in Vodou - 3 replies

Yes, I know it's not authentic Haitian vodou, but...

2006-11-17T00:30:05Z

it was an amusing news item anyway: http://www.breitbart.com/news/2006/11/16/D8LE8F0O3.html

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

new to this tribe

2006-11-16T23:38:44Z

hi voodoo people!
I am a new member and was glad to find you ...still studying , reading and learning about voodoo rituals and practice.
Would like to find out if there is a Festival.
Oshuna

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Ancestral Conflict..who wins?

2006-11-15T10:11:27Z

I posted this on another tribe, but wanted to get the opinion of Voudou practitioners.

"Oh okay. I can get with that Harambee concept then. I used to subscribe to the belief that ancient Africa was this wonderful lush and peaceful place where everyone lived happily ever after...until.. discovering African history and learning otherwise.
No disrespect to anyone's ancestors, but the Yoruba liked to conquer peeps. I know for certain my maternal ancestor's were from the Asante tribe in neighboring Ghana. It just makes me wonder how this situation plays out when for example one's paternal lineage has ancestors who battled one's maternal ancestors or vice versa. Talk about internal conflict. Any thoughts on this ? "
Also, when one begins to approach ATR's with this particular situation, does one serve the Lwa and the Orisha, for example, in order to appease the ancestors? Or does the more dominant ancestry determine? Can one truly serve two masters as the saying goes? Sorry for all the questions..this has just been on my mind for sometime.

one love,
xoxo

Khepher

posted in Vodou - 16 replies

vodou dolls

2006-11-15T09:53:22Z

are homemade vodoudolls more potent then the once bought in a kit

posted in Vodou - 19 replies

Yoruba Calendar in three languages

2006-10-16T15:31:15Z

Greetings,

This is a friendly announcement of the FIRST EVER Yoruba Calendar in three languages:

* Yoruba,
* English and
* Spanish.

This is the MOST COMPLETE Yoruba calendar, featuring

* the traditional four day, lunar worship calendar AND
* the seven day Gregorian Calendar.
* Yoruba proverbs,
* Odu Ifa, and more

This calendar will help you to:

* calibrate your worship with the traditional Yoruba calendar
* select the most auspiscious days for spiritual work
* learn a little bit of Yoruba, English and Spanish!

To order this full color, POSTER-SIZED wall calendar send a check or money order for $10.00 US dollars plus shipping & handling to:

IFE, inc.
PO Box 18941
Oakland, CA 94619
510-485-2336
YorubaSchool@yahoo.com

*Wholesale prices also available.
For more information, visit:

http://www.geocities.com/iwalewaimports/

Obafemi Origunwa, MA: President, IFE inc.
Phone: from the USA 510-536-4468 or 510-485-2336
Tel. de Mexico 044-228-138-7682 from USA to MEX 011-52-228-138-7682
Email: YorubaSchool@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.geocities.com/yorubaschool/

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Winter Camp: ¡FOLKLORICO!

2006-10-07T20:00:31Z

Camp Iwalewa is a unique arts and outdoor camp that combines folklore and the arts with ecology and nature studies. Camp Iwalewa provides a fun way for students to think creatively, as well as critically. Our hands-on nature and art projects connect children to their imaginations and the natural world at the same time. Camp Iwalewa helps instill a deep caring attitude about creating sustainable global cultures.

Bienvenidos. Welcome. We're heading South for the Winter. Camp Iwalewa's Winter Camp theme is ¡FOLKLORICO!, a fully bilingual Spanish-English experience that will expose students to the performance arts of Latin Ameica and the Caribbean. We will have daily walking field trips to the Oakland Public Library as well as Lake Merrit!!!

Malonga Casquelourd Arts Center
1428 Alice Street, Oakland, CA 94612
(2 blocks from the Oakland Public
Library Main Branch

Hours
9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Monday - Friday
After Care 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Camp Cost - Registration
$50.00 non-refundable registration fee per week
** registration fee is not applied to tuition
$200.00 weekly
Sibling Discount: 20% for second sibling.
After Care $50.00 weekly

Obafemi Origunwa, MA: President, IFE inc.
Phone: from the USA 510-536-4468 or 510-485-2336
Tel. de Mexico 044-228-138-7682 from USA to MEX 011-52-228-138-7682

Email: YorubaSchool@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.geocities.com/yorubaschool/

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

NY Haitian Master Drummer/Spirit - Hounto

2006-10-03T17:17:24Z

Frisner Augustine - resident musician in NY. Been teaching at Hunter college for over 20 years. Very interesting man and has a low key career. I highly recommend anybody in NY getting in touch with him. makandal.org He's been the most open person I've ever come across in my 6-7 years of studying traditional music and culture. I can't sing his praises enough. A lot of people don't take the time with this man that he deserves. He can often push away people that are not serious with him. But if he sees you're genuine and dedicated in your pursuits there are many things he can share.

posted in Vodou - 9 replies

Ancestors

2006-09-18T19:49:51Z

A fiend of mine has a somewhat unusual problem. From what anybody has been able to ascertain, his ancestors don't have his back. I'm not sure if some of them are actively working against him, but they're pretty definitely not there for him. His father just died under bad circumstances, so he's needing ancestor work right now.

How does one get on better terms with ones ancestors if the relationship is currently negative? I thought maybe this would be the sort of thing Gede could give good advice about, but this person doesn't live near any practitioners, as far as I know.

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

FREE - download "The Divine Horsemen"

2006-09-04T21:45:52Z

May be viewed with the free VLC Media player (download) –
http://www.download.com/VLC-Media-Player/3000-2194_4-10534878.html?tag=lst-0-1

"The Divine Horsemen" by Maya Deren (1947) --
http://www.ubu.com/film/deren.html

posted in Vodou - 3 replies

Mami Wata

2006-09-01T03:45:03Z

Could someone explain the difference, similarities, inclusion of and practise associated with Mami Wata and Voodoo proper?

Thanks in advance...

posted in Vodou - 16 replies

Veve question

2006-09-01T03:38:09Z

Hi everyone,
I'm new here and to the study/practice of vodou. As an artist, I feel very drawn (no pun intended) to the veves and I'd really like to get started on a new piece incorporating the veve of Ezili Freda Daome within a portrait dedicated to her. Being new, I was wondering if anyone can help me out with how the veves are drawn. In different books I see them drawn in different ways for the same loa.
Thanks very much~: )
Sugati

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

interesting resonances around some names

2006-08-28T01:39:54Z

I'm often pretty skeptical when people come up and say "this name here comes from that name over here" flat out.. and a lot of times the phonology does not support the derivation and there are other problems.. but when something catches my attention even where other pieces of the picture don't necessarily hold up or where it is not much more than speculation but it is just interesting, well it is kind of cool. I want to remark on one of those for anyone with ears to hear.

I wonder why I never came on this before, but there was a famous localized Syrian divinity named El-Gabal, who was a solar power in the form of a meteorite rock. He was a Baal and Baals also were often depicted as men with bull's horns on their heads and often carried a staff in their imagery.

This particular Baal, whose "birthday" is Dec 25 [Dies Natalis Solis Invicta] was "popularized" throughout the entire Roman Empire (ie forced on everybody) by a teenaged Emperor who was also the divinity's high priest.. Emperor Elagabalus.. and that is the name the deity was known by throughout the Empire. This Emperor died in 222 at the age of 18 or 19. The Roman Empire encompassed North Africa and the Middle East.. and the founder of Ife who first brought the orisha to West Africa, Oduduwa, was said to come from Arabia or Mecca.

Linguistically it really doesn't seem like much of a jump between the name El-Gabal/Elagabalus to Elegba in case y'all didn't see that coming. It actually is a feasible transformation. Many songs in Vodou for Legba associate him in some way with the Sun. In West Africa Elegba is often depicted with horns just like the Baals of Syria/Phoenicia. There was a lot of trade from Syria and Egypt along the Sahara trade routes through North Africa to the West African kingdoms. We know culture also travels along trade routes.

I won't say that in all this is the truth, or even A truth, but just an interesting set of facts that are fascinating when they all tumble around together in the brain in juxtaposition. We have seen where Phoenician traders brought Baal/Bel to the British Isles and to the Northlands with Beli and Baldr.. as extensive as trade routes were, why not Africa?

posted in Vodou - 19 replies

This pist me off and it will you too. READ!!!!!!

2006-07-18T20:46:28Z

OMG I can not believe that some one would right all this lies about our traditation. Check out this site and would love to hear from the members
http://religion-cults.com/Ancient/Africa/Africa1.htm

The man who wrote this got a email everyone should email him. Seven

posted in Vodou - 9 replies

Teacher

2006-07-14T00:02:40Z

Is anyone currently studying with a teacher, vodoumaster in the Bay Area?

Please I need a teacher.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Trinidad Orisha worship usage of Hindu deities

2006-06-12T20:26:44Z

Namaste-

I saw this topic broached in another thread, and would like to hear more about it.
I am looking for good resources to learn more about the manner in which the Hindu deities are used within the Trinidad Orisha tradition. This is of great interest, so any and all information would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
~Devi~

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Thinkin'

2006-06-09T18:58:18Z

About 2 years ago I became a wiccan. At the time my high priest was also a devotee of Voudon worshipped primarily with Ecchu and Elegua. His babaloa was in NJ. We talked a lot about it and I asked many questions. He gave me a book or two to read through and we talked quite a bit.

Last august I moved 1825 miles away and settled in Denver. I moved into an apartment three blocks from a herbalista. I went to Pagan pride day and met a priestess of Oshun in training. She s/d that they we having readings by priestesses of Oya in the coming weeks.

So I went down and they gave me a reading. Without my prompting they had s/d that they saw a stopped initiation. There were some other concerns which needed my attention so I went to the shrine and gave an offering to Oya one night.

I then began to study, in depth, hoodoo and Santeria. I have debated for a long time about whether to involve myself with Voudon. So recently I have kind of stopped studying. I have done readings (tarot) for myself about it and I get such vague answers. Perhaps it's the timing.

I've put it down and kind of let it find me again. Am I overlooking something??

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

La Siren Card

2006-06-06T01:33:39Z

A have a story on this card. Last night I was moving my eggun altar to a different locate of my home. My New Orlean cards where all face down in the old area. When I went to get them to move them to the new locate, there was a card lay upwards and facing me and it was La Siren. So I put her face up on the eggun altar and plan to make a offering to her. Does any one here can tell me more on what that card means? Seven

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Searching

2006-04-09T01:09:35Z

It was recommended that I re-post my message in this tribe.

I have been initiated to Obatala in puerto rico 1/23/05

I have recently felt drawn to Voudou, It has recently been revealed through Ochun during divination, that I may have a spirit close to me that has to do with Vodou and divination with cards.

I was hoping to find someone in the New orleans area that I could discuss this matter with.

Thank you for any assistance.

Jesse

posted in Vodou - 8 replies

Damballa and Ayida-Weddo

2006-04-04T15:22:02Z

I'm looking for a good source describing a ceremony honoring these gods. Preferably the West African version. any suggestions?

Also, I'd love to see if there were any ceremonies with Damballa, Ayida-Weddo and Elegba.

Thanks,

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Pantheacon?

2006-02-11T05:40:28Z

Kevin and I plan to be at:
http://www.ancientways.com/pantheacon/

...which is in San Jose, CA, from Feb 17 to Feb 20. After that, we have reservations to spend two nights in downtown SF.

Since this is our first Pantheacon, and it's such a big event, we are NOT giving a workshop -- we just wanted to be able to mingle and take it all in. Anyone else going to be around at that time?

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Danto, Kuan Yin, Lakshmi

2006-01-30T00:09:52Z

Help- I have statues of each of these differedent goddesses of different traditions- Is it possible that they could be in conflict and I will need to remove them from my home? If it would be wise for me to do so, does anyone know how I can safely remove a statue (i.e walk away from a tradition) without provoking much ... the right word escapes me... I hope I am making sense. If anyone knows or has any idea or is a hougan or mambo- please let me know what to do.

posted in Vodou - 11 replies

Anacaona

2006-01-24T10:21:13Z

I am in need of information on anacaona. I found some and asking around but I need all the information I can. I have a stronge bloodline of taino and would love to learn more on her. What she likes and how to call on to her, etc? thanks Seven

posted in Vodou - 1 reply

Toxic Faith: on-topic for the ATRs?

2006-01-15T20:08:28Z

I found this on one of the LiveJournal communities I read. [I'm "latzoni" on LJ, by the way, if anyone wants to add me...]

http://www.livejournal.com/community/dark_christian/388768.html

Thought it might spark some discussion here. It's obviously modeled after the questionnaires some 12-step groups use to determine whether you have a problem with alcohol, drugs, gambling, et al; and I do think it's possible for one's spiritual experiences to become equally self-destructive.

OTOH, I wonder if there's some cultural specificity to this quiz that doesn't necessarily carry over to the African traditional religions. [Try substituting "the lwa" or "the spirits" where the quiz says "God" -- and "ile" or "societe" for "church", and "godparent" for "minister" or "pastor" -- and see what kind of results you get then.]

Any initial comments?

Best,

Kathy L.

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

looking for a santero/santera in worc/boston area

2005-12-26T03:15:48Z

hi all
I live in the worcester mass. area and I am looking for a local santero/santera to help me determine if I should pursue the rule of ocha - I have had some experience in lukumi, palo and quite a bit of experinece in ceremonial magic - western style) but it seems like chango, ellegua and obatala are calling me to come back to lukumi - I'd like to find someone who is for real to help me sort out whats going on.

any help will be much appreciated

kabiosile Chango!!!

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

Children in the religion

2005-12-09T15:07:26Z

I would like to know what people think about getting your children involve in the religion and taking them to event, misa, tambor, bembe etc? I think its a great idea for children to get involve. But alot of places I go to is not child friendly and I think they should be. Ashe Seven

posted in Vodou - 2 replies

Event at the Caribbean Cultural Center/African Diaspora Institute

2005-11-27T05:52:36Z

the caribbean cultural center/african diaspora institute is in the process of planning the programs that will celebrate our 30th anniversary in 2006. In response to the overshelming requests we have received to re create the international orisha conferences produced by the center entitled the world conferences of yoruba belief systems in the americas (in the ife, nigeria 1981, bahia brasil 1983 and nyc 1986) the center is planning a conference for fall 2006 and we can use you assistance in planning it. the reality is as our dear friend dr. robert farris thompson noted in one of our historic exhibitions entitled: New York a secret african city, the crossroads of african and african diaspora cultures is new york! NYC is indeed a sacred space where african based belief traditions meet. In keeping with this theme the caribbean cultural center is making an open call to traditional leaders, practitioners(thats you), scholars and students of the diverse traditions that ultimately share the same root to join in an open dialogue addressing.
Date: Dec 6, 2006
Location: Caribbean Cultural Center 408 West 58 st between 9 and 10 ave hours 6:30 till 8:30pm Please call to confirm you attendance(space is limited) 212-307-7420 ext 3008

I think this is a wonderful event that everyone should go to. Seven

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

NEW KAT,raven

2005-11-19T20:15:39Z

hey group,my name is raven,thought id take a second to introduce myself,i was living in neworleans studying under preistess miriam chamani at the neworleans spiritual temple,till i found myself displaced becouse of the hurricane,now i find myself back in NYC,peacing my life back together,and hoping to make some friends in the vodou communitey here,and i just wanted to thank you all for letting me join your group,--thank you--RAVEN

posted in Vodou - 0 replies

some thoughts about Texas Prop 2 passing

2005-11-09T18:17:17Z

In my blog:

http://www.mike-rock.com/opinion/?p=3

Proposition 2 passing, and the Voodoo Mistresses
9 November 2005

I didn't think it would affect me so much, it being completely
not-unexpected, but election results today deeply disappoint me. I
feel a sense of grief and loss. I think of the image of Nuestra Senora
Del Monte Calvario, aka Ezili Freda, surrounded by wealth and beauty
and gifts and with her heart pierced by a jewelled sword of grief,
grief that the world of form does not meet the ideals of perfection
that it aspires to. When she comes to a Vodou service, she always
begins to cry right before she withdraws and leaves. The imperfection
is too much for her to deal with for long, the discrepancy between the
ideal and the real.

I think of her sister and rival, Ezili Dantor, her face scarred from
battle, who has both masculine and feminine within her, she weds whom she wills, man or woman. She was betrayed by those she thought her friends and allies, unvoiced when they removed her tongue, but that has not suppressed her will to continue, nor silenced her voice to shout her anger, frustration and rage and her call to action, to keep struggling for victory.

These sisters are rivals and cannot be in the same place at the same
time without competing or fighting with one another. And when a man
marries the one, they must also marry the other for balance. It seems
like these two spirits offer us a choice, to remain in our grief and
withdraw from the world into abstraction and beauty, into the life of
the sensitive aesthete and romantic artist, or to get angry and act,
and to change the world as a Mistress of revolution.

Interestingly, Freda is married to Danbala, the loftiest of spirits,
and to Ogou Feray, a fierce hardworking soldier and general, a
protector who works so hard he hardly eats or sleeps. Dantor walks
with Ogou Badagris, the Diplomat. Dantor's anger is augmented by
diplomacy. Freda's idealism is supported by practicality and spiritual
wisdom. So Voodoo reveals some of its internal balance, and sheds a
little light on how we may have balance within ourselves when the
world is not what we want it to be.

Copyright Mike Rock, 2005. All rights reserved.

Links:

Ezili Freda:

http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/vodou/spirits6.html

[except Freda doesnt smoke, her sister Dayila who often follows her
does.. a song says "ou manje pa anana, pa fume sigawet" or "you don't
eat pineapple, you don't smoke cigarettes."

http://www.artnet.com/magazine_pre2000/features/karlins/karlins10-29-4.asp

http://research.ucsb.edu/cbs/publications/HerszaAlbum/pages/04_ezili_freda_jpg.htm

http://houngangatesa.tripod.com/id1.html

Ezili Dantor:

http://www.margueritelaurent.com/ezilidanto_bio.html

http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/vodou/spirits5.html

http://research.ucsb.edu/cbs/publications/HerszaAlbum/pages/03_ezili_danto_jpg.htm

http://mike-rock.com/gallery/v/altars/dantor1.jpeg.html

http://www.widdershins.org/vol9iss5/06.htm

posted in Vodou - 0 replies