Orishas
Who Are the Orishas? An Introduction to the Lucumí Pantheon
The orishas are the divine spirits at the heart of Santería Cubana. Learn who they are, how they relate to humanity,...
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Explore in-depth articles on Cuban Santería — orishas, rituals, history, divination, sacred objects, and the living faith of the Lucumí tradition.
Rituals & Ceremonies
Kariocha: Understanding the Crown Initiation in Santería Cubana
Kariocha is the central initiation rite of Santería Cubana. Discover what happens during this sacred ceremony, who...
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History & Origins
From Yorubaland to Cuba: The Origins of Santería Cubana
How did a West African spiritual tradition survive the Middle Passage and take root in Cuba? Trace the remarkable...
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Divination
The Diloggún: A Guide to Cowrie Shell Divination in Santería
The Diloggún is the primary divination system of the Lucumí tradition. Learn how cowrie shells are cast, how to...
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Sacred Objects
Elekes: The Sacred Beaded Necklaces of the Lucumí Tradition
Elekes are consecrated beaded necklaces that represent the orishas in Santería Cubana. Learn what they are, what each...
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Living the Faith
The Year of the Iyawó: What to Expect in Your First Year After Initiation
The year following kariocha initiation is one of the most transformative periods in a Lucumí practitioner's life....
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