The 7 African Powers

The 7 African Powers, also known as the Orishas, are a group of deities found in the religious traditions of many African diaspora cultures, such as Santeria, Candomble, and Lucumi. These deities are believed to be powerful forces that can be called upon to bring blessings and protection, and they are often associated with specific aspects of life such as love, wealth, and health.

The 7 African Powers are believed to be the manifestations of the Supreme Being, Olodumare, and they are typically represented as the following:

1.     Elegua: The god of the crossroads, Elegua is believed to be the messenger of the gods and is often invoked for protection and guidance.

2.     Oya: The goddess of death and rebirth, Oya is associated with change and transformation and is often invoked for protection and guidance through difficult times.

3.     Chango: The god of fire, thunder, and war, Chango is associated with strength, power, and justice and is often invoked for protection and success in business and legal matters.

4.     Yemaya: The goddess of the ocean, Yemaya is associated with fertility, motherhood, and feminine power and is often invoked for protection and blessings in matters of love and family.

5.     Obatala: The god of wisdom, purity, and peace, Obatala is associated with healing and spiritual development and is often invoked for protection and blessings in matters of health and spiritual growth.

6.     Ogun: The god of iron and war, Ogun is associated with technology, industry, and the environment and is often invoked for protection and blessings in matters of work and career.

7.     Yewa: The goddess of the earth and the marketplace, Yewa is associated with abundance, prosperity, and commerce and is often invoked for protection and blessings in matters of wealth and success.

These powers are often invoked through rituals, offerings, and ceremonies, and are believed to be able to bring blessings and protection to those who call upon them. It is also believed that the Orishas can also manifest in the form of possession, where the deity takes over the body of a person who has prepared himself/herself through rituals and ceremonies.

In summary, The 7 African Powers, also known as the Orishas, are a group of deities that are a central part of the religious traditions of many African diaspora cultures. They are believed to be powerful forces that can be called upon to bring blessings and protection, and they are often associated with specific aspects of life such as love, wealth, and health. They are invoked through rituals, offerings and ceremonies, and they can also manifest in the form of possession.