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we must use it to open the doors that have so many times been slammed shut on us."

Sydney Noel

Vodou Spirits

Spirits in Vodou are known as Loa. Catholic Saints lithographs are used to represent them. During slavery in Haiti, the masters forbade the slaves from pursuing Vodou as a religion, and anyone caught practicing any religion other than Catholicism were severely punished. The slaves, still deeply attached to their African roots, were obliged to use Catholic Saint Image in Vodou; pretending to be praying to them while deep in their heart, they were praying to their African gods. This is the main characteristic, that differentiate the Vodou that is practiced in Haiti and in Africa. Over 300 years have passed, but the tradition strangely still remain today, it is so deeply rooted in the religion that it is almost impossible to even imagine Haitian Vodou without the representation of the Loa with Catholic Saints' images.

Legba

When one says the word Vodou, the first spirit that comes to mind is Legba. Legba is undoubtedly the most important spirits in the hierarchy of Vodou; he is the guardian of the gates, crossroads, courtyards and all Vodou temples (Peristil). He is the necessary intermediary between the livings and the spiritual world, his powers are absolutely a must for any kind of interaction with the Loas. No Vodou ceremony of any sort can take place without his permission. Because of this important privilege Legba is always the first invoked in all Vodou ceremony.
Although his possession are extremely violent, his caring nature and politeness earned him the affectionate nickname "Papa Legba" He is a small, crooked lovable old man, his body covered with sores and his crutch or cane is always presented to him for support , old age prevents him from standing on his own. He wears a straw hat and carries his djakout (straw bag) full with rare herbs and plants that he uses and, his favorite drink clairin.
During his celebration, either a goat or a grey rooster, with yam and other roots vegetables are prepared for him as offerings, put inside the djakout, then hung on trees. In Haitian Vodou, the image of Saint Lazarus for the crutch that he uses for support or St Peter for the keys that he holds, are used to represent Papa Legba.
If you are a non initiate, you MUST acknowledge Legba and ask for his permission and guidance when addressing other Loa(s), by lighting a yellow candle and place it at the entrance of the door.

Alternatives: Atibon Legba, Alegba, Legba Sanyan, Legba Zankliyan, Legba Mizè ba.

Color: Yellow.

Marassa

The Marassa are the sacred twins of Vodou. They represent abundance, blessings, the gift of children and the sacredness of family and the mysteries of conception. They also represent love, justice and the purity of children innocence. The Marassa are always invoked at the beginning of every Vodou ceremony, right after Legba, emphasizing their high importance in the religion. They are male and female, and both male an female. The Marassa are very different than the rest of the Loas, in their concept of one plus one equal three: One male and one female together equal three for their abilities to give birth. The Marassa are usually called Marassa Dossou Dossa. In possession they embody children. They play with each other, eat their offerings, usually on a banana leaves with their hands and are very fond of popcorn, candies, sodas (...)
Although portrayed as children, the Marassa are very powerful Loas. Besides ceremonies held specifically for them, they most of the time only make appearances to help those having problems conceiving children, or other very important matters such as the dying of an infant. The Marassa are also known for their malicious behaviors, if not properly served, or forgotten they make people sick and are responsible for bad luck. It is very common in Haiti for families to light up lamps in ivory plates begging for their grace.
The Marassa are commonly syncretised with the Catholic saints Cosmas and Damian.
Color: Yellow

Alternatives: Marassa Dossou Dossa, Marassa 2, Marassa 3, Marassa Boi (twin of the wood) Marassa Kay ( House twin)

Song for Marassa

"Marassa nou nan nwa e (bis)
Marassa Ginen nou nan nwa devan bondye
Dossou Marassa pote chandel pou klere nou"

"Marassa we are in the dark (bis)
Marssa from Guinea we are in the dark in front of God
Dossou Marassa bring the lamp to shine upon us"

Damballah

Although not invoked first, Damballah is the father of all the Loas. He is the archetypal wise Loa, the patriarchal serpent divinity, associated with wisdom, peace, purity, benevolence, life and innocence.
Damballah is highly respected and is one of the most revered African gods. Along with his companion Ayida Wèdo, the rainbow serpent, he is viewed as the Loa of creation.
Ceremonies for Damballah and/or Ayida Wèdo are extremely particular and highly elaborate, and all rules must be followed to the letters. First, everyone in the assistance must entirely be dressed with freshly clean, immaculate white clothes, women are to have their head tied with silk white scarves. It is very common for people to be asked to leave the temple if they're not in proper attire when Damballah is expected. Smoking, and alcoholic consumption are strictly forbidden. After many sacred African litanies, Damballah will finally come in possession. As a snake, he doesn't have feet; the possessed immediately falls on the ground; undulating just like a snake to get by; does not talk, but only makes hissing and whistling noises. It is believed that his wisdom is too preeminent for us mortals to be expressed through words.
Damballah is not a very demanding Loa in terms of offerings; usually a hen egg placed on a mound of flour, along a bottle of white anisette syrup or honey. A clean white bed sheet usually covers his head while he consumes his offerings.

Damballah is associated with the biblical figure Moses and, the Catholic Saint Patrick, in consideration of his affiliation with snakes.

Alternatives: Damballah Wèdo, Damballah Laflanbo (Damballah the torch),

Damballah Tokan (intelligent snake),Odan (wisdom and endless life), Pyè Damballah.

Color: White

"Kreyòl m'ape di ou bonswa
Bonswa Danballah Wedo (bis)
M'ape mande kouman nou ye o!
M'ape mande kouman nou ye o!
Wi nou la, Wi nou la Damballah Wedo Lavi nou nan men bondye"

"Creole I am saluting you
Salutations Damballah Wedo (bis)
I'm asking how're you all doing
I am asking how're you all doing.
We're fine, we're fine Damballah Wedo our lives are in the hands of God."

Loko

Loko is the first Hougan (priest); the priest of all priests and the guardian of the deepest secret in Voodoo: The initiation secrets. He is the one who personally conferred the Asson to all Hougans and Mambos. Needless to point out his importance in Voodoo and the level of respect accorded to him; not only by initiates, but all. No secret is unknown to him. Loko is so powerful that he never makes appearance through possession; he is too Supreme for us humans to face him. He is portray as the wind and usually shows himself as a butterfly. Offerings to Loko are put inside a djakout (straw bag), then hung in tree branches. Loko is ONLY served by Hougan and Mambos.
The image of St Joseph is used to represent Loko, in consideration of Joseph being the father figure of the most important figure in Catholicism; Jesus.

Alternatives: Loko Atissou, Loko Atissougwe, Papa Loko, Azagon Loko, Loko Miwa(Loko the mirror), Loko Dayifre, Loko Mayifado.

Colors: Green and Yellow.

Here is a song us initiate sing for Loko.

"Papa Loko se Ou ki Banm Asson
Le ou te ban mwen'l ou dim kenbe'l nan kè mwen
Ala'm tonbe mwen leve li nan kè mwen
Ala'm tonbe mwen leve li nan kè mwen
Pechè latè ki fè'l sèvi ponya yon jou l'ap ponyade yo."

"Papa Loko it is You who gave me the Asson
When you gave it to me, you told me to keep it in my heart.

I have fallen, I have gotten up, it is still in my heart
I have fallen, I have gotten up, it is still in my heart
Sinners of this earth who use it as a dagger , one day will be stabbed by it."

Ayizan Velekete

Ayizan is the patroness of the initiation into Vodou with her husband Loko. Her name Ayizan Velekete means(very well chosen friend of the earth).She is one of the most important spirits in Vodou and also the first Mambo(priestess). She only makes appearance during Kanzo Ceremonies(initiation ritual).
She is seen as a market woman wearing a white dress with very large pockets where she keeps small candies, and change to hand out to children. Ayizan is symbolized by mounds of earth sprinkled with oil and surrounded by fringe of palm. In personification, she is represented by an old woman.
She is Dahomean of origin and one of the oldest Voodoo Spirits and is therefore entitled to first offerings. She rarely comes in possession, and when she does, her possession are never violent and might even take quit a while for people to spot her.
She punishes adults who take advantage of the young; the rich of the poor; the strong of the weak and the husband of the wife. Salutes to Ayizan and Loko are the most complicated and beautiful in Voodoo; giving them all respect. They are extremely strict when it comes to tradition. Along with Damballah and Loko, Ayizan is the guardian of African Vodou traditions in Haiti. Almost all her songs are still in ancient African languages.

Ayizan is depicted as St Claire.
Color: White

Alternatives: Ayizan Velekete, Mambo Ayizan, Gran Ayizan(Ayizan the grand mother), Mambo Afrekete.

Color:White

"Ayizan eh, Ayizan eh
Ayizan eh, Ayizan eh
Ayizan m'prale nan Ginen pou'm we si m'a lage
Ayizan nou tout mare

Ayizan eh, Ayizan eh
Ayizan eh, Ayizan eh
Ayizan I'm going to Guinea to see if I can free myself
Ayizan we are all tangled"

Agassou

Agassou is believed to be the product of a divine mating. A leopard is said to have mated with a princess named Aligbonon of Tado. He is also noted as a ruler and king of an African sect, that has come to be known as the leopard society. Agassou was chosen by Ayida Wedo, to be sent to Haiti, to bring the practice of Voodoo to her African children to ease their pains and sufferings from slavery, according to popular beliefs. He was given a crab for his journey thus Haitian associate him with crab instead of a panther like in Africa. He is referred to as " Agassou de bo Miwa" meaning "Agassou the two sided mirror." One side facing Guinea and the other, Haiti.He is the guardian of the old traditions of Dahomey. and is usually called when money is needed in the temple. His color is white.
Alternatives: Agassou Do, Agassou Lèlè.

Song for Agassaou

"Agassou o! M'ale nan Ginen
Agassou o! M'ale nan Ginen
mwen di Agassou o! M'ale nan Ginen
Pechè latè pa Bondye."

"Agassou oh! I went to Guinea
Agassou oh! I went to Guinea
I said Agassou oh! I went to Guinea
Sinners of the earth are not God"

Erzulie Freda

The agile and elegant goddess of love and of sex. beauty, jewelery, flowers, luxury, wealth, dance, femininity as well as discord, vengeance, jealousy in the Haitian Voodoo is Erzulie Freda. She is the loa of ideality She has tremendous power and is feared as much as she is loved. She is respected and wealthy, wears her hair long and is also very demanding. She requires her lovers to dedicate a room entirely for her ritual lovemaking. The Rada aspect of Erzulie. She wears three wedding rings, one for each husband. Agwe, Damballah and Ogou. Her symbol is a heart and she is always envisioned as a beautiful spoiled mulatto woman. She is very specific and particular about her offerings. Erzulie Freda's offerings are sweet white or pink cakes, liquors, pink champagne, pink and white candles, white and/or pink dresses, rice pudding with cinnamon, fine cheeses, expensive perfumes, flowers, jeweled daggers, beautiful and expensive gold or/and diamond jeweleries. Coquettish and very fond of beauty and finery. White dove is usually sacrificed for her. Freda is fabulously rich, and, when she mounts someone the first act is to accomplish her elaborate toilette. She will bathe using soap still in a fresh wrapper. She will dress in silks with fresh flowers and other signs of her femininity Erzulie Freda is femininity and compassion embodied, but she is also seen as jealous and considered to be lazy. She is also legendary considered to be the mortal enemy of her sister Erzulie Dantor.(Voodouisant always separates their services. Even offerings to them are not made on the same day) When she mounts a servitor, she flirts with all the men, kiss and caress them. Sometimes in very embarrassing manners and treats the women as her rivals. In Catholic symbolism, she is often identified as the Mater Dolorosa and strangely, the Virgin Mary. She is conceived of as never able to attain her heart's most fervent desire. For this reason, she always leaves a service in tears. The world is too much for her. At first people will try to comfort her with more delicate food or drink or other gifts but her tears continue to flow. Erzulie Freda is usually identified with gay men. She is one of the most served Loa in Haiti and she is very powerful in resolving love life, bad lucks and money problems. She speaks French, a little bit of Creole and fluently English, But in possession she rarely talks. She prefers to ask for what she wants by making signs with her hands since she is too pretentious to talk to people.

Alternatives: Erzulie Freda, Erzulie Freda Lada Dahomey.

Colors: Pink and white and light blue.

Song for Erzulie Freda.

" Erzulie Oh, kay la mande wouze
Erzulie Oh, kay la mande wouze.
Erzulie Freda, Erzulie Dahomean
Si pa gen dlo, wouze avèk losyon ou"

"Erzulie Oh, the house needs to be doused
Erzulie Oh, the house needs to be doused
Erzulie Freda, Erzulie Dahomean
If there's no water
Douse it with your lotion"

Ogou

Ogou is the Loa who presides over fire, smithery, politics and wars. He is viewed as the ultimate fighter, the faithful warrior that will defend you through the end. According to legends, during the Haitian Revolution, the majority of the slaves were possessed by the mighty Ogou, including Jean Jacques Dessalines, Haiti's father of Independence. Ogou is by far, the most known and served Loa in Haitian Vodou. He is masculinity embodied, he is the husband of both the gracious Erzulie Freda and the fierce Erzulie Dantor. Ogou is very famous for his love of women; although greeted as Papa Ogou in possession, he chooses the most beautiful women in the assistance as his wives for the time being, and usually ask their hands in spiritual marriage. As the traditional warrior, in appearance, he always displayed his attributes: A machete or saber, rum and tobacco, and curses a lot. Ogou is a very severe Loa, he usually punish his worshipers for their misdeeds; on their knees, Ogou never hesitates to use his machete to slap them (in the butt)
The image of Saint Georges is usually used to represent Ogou, for the soldier shown fighting a dragon.

His offerings can be a bull, a goat, or a red rooster with mixed rice and beans and yams.

Alternatives: Ogou Feray, Ogou Badagri, St Jack Le Majeur(a Catholic Saint),Ogou Balendjo, Ogou Balizay(who's the captain of Agwe's boat), Ogou Ashade, Ogou Panama,Feray Aleman, Ogou Batala and so many more.

Colors: The Haitian Flag colors blue and red.

Song for Ogou

Ogou Fe Fe Feray o!
Ogou Fe Fe Feray o!
Sa ki fe yo byen, ba yo lavi pou mwe
Sa ki fè yo mal la lese san yo koule
Ogou Fe Fe Feray o!

Ogou Fe Fe Feray oh!
Ogou Fe Fe Feray oh!
Those who's done good to others, give them life for me

Those who's done bad to others, let their blood runs down
Ogou Fe Fe Feray oh!

Erzulie Dantor

Erzulie Dantor is a dark-skinned, hardworking woman with tough country ways and she is fiercely very independent and vengeful. Erzulie Dantor is considered to be an extremely though lady who is often wild, over bearing, aggressive, and very difficult to deal with.The goddess of Jealousy, romance and passion. Despite her wild nature, she is seen as very maternal; Erzulie Dantor is the protector of children and women who have been abused or betrayed by a lover. Her personal story is a tragedy. She was a warrior who fought with her people during the However, her own people cut out her tongue, so that she would not tell their secrets if she got captured. Thus she is mute and can only speak a stammering monosyllable "ke-ke-ke-ke-ke-ke-ke" She is often pictured with her daughter Ti Koukoun who serves as her translator and interpreter. Due to her woman power, Erzulie Dantor is highly feared and respected. Silver Jewelery, Creme de cacao, ginger tea, black coffee, rice mixed with black beans, dry red wine, black female pig, fried plantain, two daggers, Florida water Perfume and strong unfiltered cigarettes are her offerings. In Haiti, Erzulie Dantor is mostly served by women maltreated by men and some men serve her as well, especially those who honor, love, respect and cherish women. Her husbands are Ogou and Ti jan Petro who is believed to be her cousin. Erzulie Dantor is mistakes as a lesbian due to her tough and sometimes masculine ways. Her days are Tuesday and Saturday. Her Catholic saint associations are: Our Lady of Czestochowa, Mater Salvatoris, Our Lady of Lourdes, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, our Lady of Prompt Succor and she is also associated with the Hindu divinity Kali-Ma.

Alternatives:Erzulie Dantor, Erzulie Fanm Tijan(Erzulie Ti Jan's wife), Erzulie Je Rouj(Erzulie Red Eyes[her most dangerous and violent manifestation.]), Mambo Zila, Erzulie Kè Nwa(Erzulie black heart)

Colors: Blue, Red and sometimes Green

Kouzen Zaka

Kouzen is the patron loa of farmers in the Haitian Voodoo and Known as the Minister of Agriculture. A very good natured man in the mountains, very gentle and respected by all for being a hard worker, he enjoys the most simple things in life. He is the brother of Guede. For this reason, Guede will often come to the ceremony for Kouzen. He is always wearing a broad brimmed straw hat, barefoot, smoking a pipe, wearing denim clothing, carrying a straw sack called(djakout) and a sickle or machette when he comes in possession. Kouzen is extremely popular in all of Haiti. He is a master at treating illness using herbs and leaves that he always keep in his "". with his high pitched voice Kouzen always say in his songs that he doesn't steal, he'd rather ask for charity, but then steals. He is also complaining in his songs about how people are always asking him for things he doesn't have. He is very suspicious by nature, out for profit, and has a fear and hatred of town folks. Kouzen is also a very lively dancer. Kouzen is also well known for his gossip. When he mounts someone, he spills out all the local gossip to the embarrassment and amusement of all. St Isidor is the Saint Catholic image uses to portrayed Kouzen. Chaka,, boiled corn, cassava bread, sweet potato, yam, coconut, toasted corn and peanut, a gray rooster or a goat. Cola, coffee, and all kind of fruit are Kouzen's offerings. His tree is the avocado.

Alternatives: Kouzen Zaka, Azaka Mede, Minis Zaka, Zaka Klib, Zaka Tonné(Zaka Thunder).

Color: Green, Denim sometimes blue and red.

Song for Kouzen

" Jaden mwen lwen; mayi'm ape kase ago e!
Jaden Mwen lwen; mayi ap kase ago e!
Jou'm pran yon fanm, ki pa pote panye nan tèt samalouwe?

My field is far away; my corns are being stolen ago e!

My field is far away; my corns are being stolen ago e!
The day I take a woman who doesn't carry a basket on her head, what will I do?

Gran Bwa

Gan Bwa meaning Great Tree is a nature oriented loa, closely associated with trees, plants and herbs. He is the master of the sacred forest and also the protector of wild animals. Like Loko, he is the loa of healing, knows the secrets of herbal medicine and the secrets of magic hidden in the plants. Gran Bwa represents the rich earth that you spring from and the dark woods of life you stumble through. He is one of the loa who presides over the Kanzo cycle.

His rites fall under the petro style of service. He loves leaves and plants as offerings. He loves cigars and drink kleren or rum through his ears when he makes appearance.

Together with Kalfou and Baron, Gran Bwa forms the triad of the three greatest, most powerful Voodoo magicians. His colors his green, red in some houses and he's linked to Saint Sebastian in Catholic hagiography, for the tree that Sebastian is pinned against.

Agwe

In Voodoo, Agwe, invoked under the names "Shell of the sea, Captain of the seven sea" is the sovereign of the seas. He symbolizes the intuitive powers and deep knowledge of the ocean. Agwe is the husband of La Sirène and one of the husband of the gracious Erzulie Freda. Children of Agwe are usually water people(sailors, swimmers and water signs of the zodiac) Agwe is always saluted and signaled to, by the blowing of conch shell during his service. When Agwe comes in possession, he moves with an infinite grace and power. He does not talk, but only makes with his mouth the sounds of the ocean waves and water should constantly be poured on his head. Altar offerings to this loa have nautical and marine themes. Offerings to Agwe are quit different from others since it takes place at the sea itself. His favorite foods and drink, which include champagne are left on constructed rafts which are floated out to the sea. If the bark(s) sinks, then Agwe has accepted the offering. Agwe is syncretise with the Catholic Saint Ulrich who is depicted holding a fish.

Alternatives: Agwe Taroyo, Agwe Woyo, Akoki Lanmè(shell of the sea), Koki Dore(golden shell).

Colors.Blue sea and white.

A popular song that is usually sing when Agwe makes appearance.

Mwen tande yon kanno ki tire
Ann ale wè, papa sa sa ye.(bis)
Batiman Agwe Taroyo a ki rive
Batiman Koki Dore a debake
Mwen tande yon kanno ki tire
Ann ale wè papa sa sa ye.

I heard the firing of a cannon
Let's go see what is it (bis).
The ship of Agwe Taroyo has arrived.
The ship of the Golden Shell has arrived.
I heard the firing of a cannon
Let's go see what is it.

La Sirène

La Sirène is usually pictured with green blue-eyes and mulatto skin with long straight dark hair. She is the wife of Agwe who she rules the seas with. She is known for her power to bring luck and money from the ocean's depth were she makes her own music. All treasures of the ocean are hers and the underwater palace she shares with Agwe is filled with gold and precious items that have come from sunken ships. Due to this, La Sirène adores objects of beauty, jewelery, gold and diamond, as offerings to her upon her altar. La Sirène is a seductress rich mulatto woman like Erzulie Freda and fierce like the dangerous Erzulie Dantor. Each Lwa has a personality and mannerisms that are exhibited during possession. La Sirene, when in possession, often finds it difficult to walk because she does not have the legs and feet of a human! To make it easier for her in ceremony, she will often be lifted by two strong men either side of her and carried around the temple. She is kept wet by other celebrants who douse her continually with buckets of water, and if she runs towards a large body of water the celebrants will hold her back. Her main work is to help those who have instability on their marriage or relationship. La Sirène is usually discerned in the image of Our Lady of Navigation.

Alternatives: La sirène Diaman(La Sirène the Diamond), Mambo La Sirène

Song for La Sirene

Mwen mache lannwit o mwen pa genyen chans
Mwen mache lajounen La Sirene malè rive Mwen (bis)
Yon sèl pitit fi mwen genyen Mambo La Sirene o
Yon sèl pitit fi mwen genyen Mambo La Sirene o
Gade'm mache lannwit o malè rive mwen.

I walk at night oh! I don't have any luck
I walk during the day misfortune happens to me (bis)

I only have one daughter Mambo La Sirene oh!
I only have one daughter Mambo La Sirene oh!

See I walk at night misfortune happens to me.

Filomèz

Filomez is considered to be a cheerful merchant girl who brings prosperity. She is served with colors like light blue, light green, light yellow and white. Her love for perfume, flowers have people claim her as a sister of Erzulie Freda. Although she is also a Rada Loa, she is not related to Erzulie Freda. Filomez is a water spirits and when she comes in possession, she walks on her knees and a bouquet of flower is presented to her which she scatters on the ground. Other times, she takes a broom and sweep away all negativity and bad luck from the area.
She is known to reveal secrets to people in dreams. She is a very rare loa, and almost never comes in possession. The image of Saint Philomena is used to depict her.
A very popular song is usually sang when she comes in possession.

"Mwen mande ki Lwa sa a, Yo di mwen se mambo Filomèz( bis)
Filomèz bèl fanm ki kote ou prale?
Filomèz bèl fanm ki kote ou prale?
Mwen prale nan so, mwen pral siyen non mwen"

"I ask who is this loa, they told me it's Mambo Filomèz (bis)
Filomèz beautiful woman where are you going?
Filomèz beautiful woman where are you going?
I'm going to the waterfall to sign my name"

Simbi

Simbi is a well known and venerated Loa in Haitian Voodoo. Although an image of Mami Wata is used to portray that spirit, most of the Simbis are considered males, they lives in rivers, lakes and springs. (sweet water), it is generally believed that Simbi usually abducts his/her followers or any random person that they might like, while swimming or boating; bringing them to their paradisaical underwater palace according to legends. Abductions are usually not forever, after 121 days, victims are sent back with all the knowledge needed to be a Hougan or Mambo. If you steal her golden comb, you will be sent back even faster and will be rich for the rest of your life. The same legend goes, when abducted, if you do the complete opposite of everything asked of you, you will be sent back; rapidly, without any spiritual knowledge of course.
Most Simbis are sorcerers specializing in dark magic and usually served in secret Voodoo societies. (sanpwèl)
Plants, poisons and dark magic are usually their area of expertise.
As a snake, Simbi's possession resemble that of Damballah, but in a more violent way.

Alternatives: Simbi Andezo ( Simbi of Two Waters.) Simbi Makaya, Simbi Anpaka

Ti Jean

Ti Jean is a fire Loa, who lives in the bushes. He is a powerful magician who primarily deals with black magic and he's part of secret Voodoo societies (sanpwèl). Like most Loas who fall under the Petro rite, his possessions are unbelievably violent and it takes quite some times for people to regain their consciousness after hea leaves the body. He dances on fire, and his offering, a sheep, is usually burn to the ashes.

He is viewed as a one legged dwarf who is surprisingly very agile in climbing his favorite tree; the coconut tree. He always wear a straw hat, and carry a baton for support.

People show great respect for Ti Jean, as he is known to set houses on fire when he is mad. He always wears a straw hat, and carries a baton for support. Many considered him to be the son of Erzulie Dantor, and believe that they are also involved an in incestuous relationship. But that is untrue, Erzulie Dantor is known to have only one child named Anaise who is affectionately called Ti Koukoun. He is also involved with Marinette.

His ceremony takes place on Saint Jean Day, June 24th, whose image is also use to depict him. His color is Yellow.

Agaou

Agaou is the god who rules over thunder, rain, lightning, wind, storm and earthquake. Very powerfull and violent, Agaou is feared and respected by all. It is said that when the earth tremors, it is because Agaou is angry. One has to be very strong to harbor this spirit. His possessions are so violent, there have been deaths associated with them. Even Mambo and Hougan are affraid of this spirit. When Agaou comes in possession people are trembling of fear cause his voice is like the thunder itself and he's always ready to beat those who do not serve him correctly, with his machette or sword. In possession he keeps repeating " It is I who am the gunner of God; when I roar the earth trembles." The image of St Michel is used to represent Agaou.

Alternatives :Agaou Wèdo, Agaou Tonnè( Agaou the Thunder) Agaou Loray( Agaou the Orage) Agaou Zèklè ( Agaou the Lightning) Agaou Lefan(Agaou the Elephant), .( who was a king of an Arada group in Africa and the father of the great ),Agaou Misan, Agaou Potokli, Agaou Bèt Sansan(beast without blood)

Colors: Red and sometimes light blue.

Bossou

The Loa Bossou is believed to be the spirit of the deceased Dahomean king Tegbésou. He is a very powerful, mighty and aggressive loa, who's appearance is that of a man with three horns. Each horn has a meaning. (Strength, wildness and violence) When he comes in possession, he appears as breaking chain that he was restrained from, acts like a bull and often goes crashing into things, altar, people and walls. He would charge everything around with his head like a ferocious bull would do with its horns. He would sometimes eat grass, moo like a cow, drink rum or bull's blood. He protects his followers when they travel at night an he's also an amazing healer. His female counterpart is called Madan Bossou literally translates into (Bossou's wife) which is a cow and they have a son named ( Kabwatye). Sometimes all three will appear together in a ceremony.

His colors is Red and he's represented by the Catholic Saint image of Jesus de la Buena Esperanza.

Alternattives: Bosso Dlo (Bossou water), Bossou twa kòn (Bossou triple horned.), Bossou kondyanman, Kadja Bossou, Djobolo Bossou

Kalfou

Kalfou is the twin brother of Papa Legba, and him too control the crossroads; but unlike Legba, Kalfou is very evil and only allow the crossing of bad spirits. He controls all the evil spirits of the dark. Kalfou is viewed as a strong, young, muscular, tall and handsome man; whereas his twin brother got old from wisdom. Very authoritative, no one speak in his presence, or he will deliberately allow misfortune, destruction, injustice to cross over. During his services, soAme of the most devilish spirits,such as Krabinay, Marinette, Lenglensou, Bakoulou Baka, always make appearance. He is the Grand Master of sorceries. It is said that the world would be a much better place without him, but he always denies his involvement with demons,and since he controls the mind, no one would even dare think otherwise. Kalfou is very respected but highly feared. His symbol is the moon and his ceremonies always take place in the middle of crossroads at night. Kalfou is undoubtedly one of the most important spirits in Voodoo. His powers and energy are needed to balance the world, and everything related to black magic and spells must get his approval, therefore, many seek his work. Although an extremely powerful magician, Kalfou only uses 7 leaves in almost of his work.

Colors: Black and Red
Offerings: Bull

Lenglensou

Lenglensou is a fierce Loa, strong and hard. He is considered to be a Free Masson and very knowledgeable in all spiritual and soteric matters. He executes judgment on those who can't keep their word and the Hougan or Mambo who can't keep the Voodoo secrets from the uninitiate ones. He likes sharp objects such as knives, scisors, barbed wire and specially razor blade. Everything that tear the flesh. Lenglensou is feared and respected by all. He almost never comes in possession, but when he does must be served correctly, otherwise the Hougan or the Mambo will be cruelly punished. When Lenglensou comes in possession he only eats glasses, razor blades and drinks warm bull blood's. The Sacred Heart of Jesus is the St Catholic image uses to represent this wild spirit.

Color: Red?

Alternatives: Lenglensou basen san(Lenglensou basin of blood), Lenglensou Gè(Lenglensou War), Lenglensou Tonnè(Lenglensou the Thunder).

Baron

Baron is one of the most important Spirits in Haitian Voodoo. He is the the God of Death; the ultimate crossroad; that all living souls, must fording. As Master of Death, he is also a giver of life. No one can die if baron refuses to dig their grave. His powers are also often use, on curses and dark magic. Baron is one the few spirits, where all his manifestations are as widely known as people seek service from them. He is the father of all Gede, and his wife is Grann Brijit. Some of is manifestations are known as Baron Lacroix (Baron the Cross); in connection to grave crosses. Baron Samedi (Baron Saturday), Baron Kriminèl (Baron the Criminal), and Baron Simityè. (Baron of the Cemetery.) He is the Supreme Lawyer. Give him all your complaints, and he will make a just judgement. The first male to be buried in all Haitian cemeteries, are known as Baron Simityè. People buries letters in front of those tombs, they burn candle and drop alcohol. Even making small food offering in Kalbas. (Calabash) As the God of Death, he is familiar with all types of deaths. The bloodiest included; therefore, although he is viewed as the Spirit of Death, which usually represents darkness, he has no problem using red.

A popular song is sung, emphasizing on Baron impartiality in rendering Justice. Not even the children are exempt.

"Baron Oh! Baron Oh!
Baron Oh! Baron Oh!
Timoun fronte kap'e joure granmoun
Mennen' y'ale nan Simityè"

Baron Oh! Baron Oh!
Baron Oh! Baron Oh!
rude children, who are disrespecting the elders
bring them to the Cemetery."

Gede

The Gede are the Family of spirits that embody the power of death and fertility. They are the largest family Loa in Voodoo. There numbers are only known to their Father, Baron Simityè (Baron Cemetery) and their Mother Grann Brijit. (Grand Mother Brigitte). They are the intermediaries between the living, and the dead. Gede has the capability to read people minds and to know everything that happens in both worlds. If a child is dying, Gede is prayed to. It is believed that he will not take a life before it's time and will protect the little ones. Aside from occupying an extremely important place in Voodoo, they are the goofiest. They love to dance sexually suggestive dance. The rythm is known as Banda. they are also known from their foul mouth, and their favorite drink, Piman Kleren; a fiery rhum with 21 hot peppers soaked in it.They love it so much, that they pour it on their body, wash their faces, and even their genitalia with it. Their presence seem to always put everyone in the assembly in a sexual type mood, some are known as gay. There's male, and female Gede. When Gede come in possession, they wear sunglasses, with a missing lens, some cover their faces with baby powder. They wear white, black or purple clothing. They gossip and put people's embarrassing secrets out, at the leisure of laughs from participants, but pull one aside, and ask him a serious question; he will give you the best answer that he can give. Some has the funniest name.
Gede Pete (Gede the farter), Gede Egare ( Gede the retarded), are some of them; but there are also, some respected, old, wise and very rare. Such as Brav Gede Nibo. (The Brave Gede Nibo). Nibo is the name of an ancient village in Nigeria. Gede Avoka, ( Gede the Lawyer), Gede Mazaka, Gede Zariyen (Gede the Spider), also my personal Loa. Gede's feast are usally celebrated throughout Haiti, on November 2nd, in reference to its description of Tous les Saints (All Saints Day). Huge crowds are on the streets, en route to cemeteries. Drums are beaten, candles are lighted, songs are sung; VèVè are drawn on the grounds. It is a real party.
Black Goats are sacrificed for them.

Here is a popular song for Brav Gede

Brav Gede alovi e

M'pat vin isi pou'm ret a moun o
Fouye twou a se mwen, antere a se mwen (bis)
Mwen pat vin isi pou'm ret ak moun o

"Brav Gede Alovi eh
I didn't come here to be anyone's servant
Digging the hole; it's me. Burying; it's me (bis)
I didn't come here to be anyone's servant.

Marinette-Bois Sèch

Marinette Bois Sèch, meaning Marinette of the dry arms, is one the most dangerous, violent, unpredictable in the pantheon Voodoo. She is extremely evil, her ceremonies are around huge bonfire, in which salt and gasoline are thrown into. She has the authority over all werewolves. She is one of the great sorceress and she is feared as much as she is respected.
In possession, she openly talks about the horrendous crimes she's been committing lately. Her hands are crooked, she has a scratchy voice, lower her head and scratching. She behaves like the owl, which is her symbol. Her offerings reflect how much of a cruel spirit she is. A black hen, or goat, is presented to her, which she would douse gasoline on and set on fire alive. She finds pleasure in the horrific view, and the burning smell really delights her; also because she doesn't want anyone to come to her hidden house in the forest, with offerings. If she needs it, she will come for it. Nothing is usually prepared for her, since most are afraid to call upon her. Marinette Bois Sèch presence are always unexpected. Her rite is the Bizango.
Bizango is the most extreme form of petro. In possession she walks on fire. for Marinette Bois Sèch' ceremonies take place, extremely late at night, where the djab live. Djab meaning devil.
She is the wife of Ti Jean Dantor, cousin of Erzulie Dantor.

Alternative. Marinette Pye Sèch (Marinette of the dry feet).
Color: Red

01 prye ginen.mp3

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