Articles about spirituality

Oxum (Oshun) statue on the congá: the Our Lady of each region or the plaster statue of the orixá (orisha), with a crown, mirror abebé, and the colors of Umbanda and Candomblé.

Oxum in Umbanda is the orixá of the waterfalls, celebrated on Saturdays, with a blue or yellow candle depending on the house. See the falange, who descends in the gira and what is requested.

Oxum sung chant calls and dismisses the waterfall line. See the lily in the house of Zélio and in Pai Maneco, the sung chants with author, the maleime and the ijexá of the chant.

Day of Xangô (Shango): Wednesday of the week; June 24 and 29, with Airá at Casa Branca; September 30, Saint Jerome. Only São Paulo has a law. In 2027, 6/29 is a Tuesday.

Herbs of Xangô by tradition: acocô and orobô in Candomblé, quebra-pedra and guiné in Umbanda, okra in the South. See who cites each one and which of them are toxic.

Xangô sung chant calls, firms and dismisses the quarry line. See the sung chants from the house of Zélio, the lily that turns into a book and the double-edged oxé in the ponto riscado.

Xangô in Umbanda rules the line of justice and of the quarries, with falanges such as Xangô Kaô and Sete Pedreiras. See who descends, the brown candle and the day: Wednesday.

December 8 is the day of Oxum in the South and in Sergipe, where she was linked to Our Lady of the Conception. In Recife and São Paulo, the date belongs to Iemanjá (Yemoja). See why.

The most registered drink for Exu (Eshu) Caveira is cachaça, the marafo, and the tobacco is the cigar or the cigarette. See what is based on fact, what is rumor, and where it is delivered.

Children of Omolu (Omulu): the portrait of Prandi, Verger, and Augras, the taboo of attending funerals, the quizilas that the houses record, and if a child of Obaluaê can eat popcorn.

Offering for Omolu: unsalted popcorn with coconut, black beans, and plantain in Candomblé; white and black candle and white flower in Umbanda. And where to deliver it.

Omolu in Umbanda, also called Obaluaê, has black and white colors, white and black candles, and Monday. See who descends in the gira and why it is not Exu Omulu.

Day of Ogum (Ogun): Tuesday of the week, April 23 by law in São Paulo and Saint George holiday in Rio, June 13 in Bahia. In 2027, April 23 falls on a Friday.

Mãe Senhora de Ewá (Yewa), Elza Bahia de Araújo, died at 104 years old in Salvador. Raised in Gantois and initiated for Ewá by Mãe Menininha in 1950, she led the Omí Ewá.

Ogum in Umbanda rules the Saint George line and works through falanges such as Beira-Mar, Megê, and Ronda. See who descends in the gira, the red color, and the day: Tuesday.

Ogum's sung chant opens the gira, calls Megê and Beira Mar, and speaks of the sword and the flag. See the seven swords in four houses and the sword in Ogum's ponto riscado.

Day of Oxóssi (Oshosi): Thursday of the week, January 20 in Rio, holiday by Organic Law, and Corpus Christi in Salvador. In 2027, January 20 falls on a Wednesday.

Pombagira Day: Monday or Friday night, and each terreiro decides. See the dates for Porto Alegre by falange and why August 13 has no source for her.

Children of Oxóssi: the portrait of Prandi, Verger, and of the houses, which does not match; why honey is taboo in queto; the quality, the juntó, and who confirms the orixá.

Pombagira Names, falange by falange: the Marias, the ones of the souls, the ones of the crossroads, and the ciganas, with what the field research records and the file link.

Offering for Pombagira: open roses, champagne, perfume, cigarettes, and farofa with honey. Where it is delivered, why rose buds are not allowed, and who decides.

Oxóssi in Umbanda rules the caboclo line, and for almost all houses, the one who descends in the gira is the caboclo. See color, Thursday, January 20, ponto and statue.

Cigana Esmeralda: in research, she is Pombagira Cigana. The name of Victor Hugo and the cordel, the legend of death, and what the houses offer to the ciganas, with source.

Romani bonfire: the Salamandra of the Romani tents, where the request candles turn into fire and the mediums dance. How houses do it and why at home the candle is worth it.

Romani table in Umbanda: fruits, sweet liqueurs, clove and cinnamon, honey, coins and candles, house by house. What does not go, what belongs to Pombagira and what to do after.

Children of Ewá are rare: few houses initiate for her. Can a man be of Ewá? What the sources say about temperament and what has no record here.

Are Oxumaré (Oshumare) and Ewá siblings, husband and wife or twins? Prandi's itãs give two answers in the same book, and the ialorixás give others. See who says what.

Agogô is the iron bell that provides the guiding line of the toque in candomblé and in umbanda. See the difference for the gã, who plays, the connection with Ogum, and the origin of the name.

Iemanjá in Umbanda almost never incorporates: who descends is the water people. See the line, the name Janaína, the greeting, the color and why the feast is on December 8.

Iemanjá in the new year: why December 31 goes to the sea, which flowers to take, what not to throw in the sea, the boat and what is known about the origin of jumping seven waves.

Statue of Iemanjá: why the best known is white in a blue dress, where the mermaid and the black Iemanjá come from and what to look for when choosing the statue for the congá.

Day of Oxalá (Obatala): Friday in ketu candomblé, Friday or Sunday in umbanda houses. January 15 has no source; in 2027 the Lavagem falls, by rule, on Thursday, 1/14.

Is Oxalá in Umbanda Jesus? See what FUCESP, NUSS and TUCTVC say and what research from UFMG and USP record about congá, color, day and the seven lines.

The qualities of Oxalá in the sources: Oxalufã, the old man, and Oxaguiã, the young warrior, with color, day, food and the points where Prandi, Verger and Gaia diverge.

Iansã (Oya) Day: Wednesday of the week and December 4 of the year. In 2026, 12/04 falls on a Friday. See if it is a holiday, the saint of each house, and what is seen on the day.

Herbs of Iansã vary from house to house. See what terreiro research records, why the lists do not match and which plants are toxic if ingested.

Iansã and Xangô are husband and wife in the myths. See the fire potion, who kept the lightning, what separates them (the dead), and why Saint Barbara is with both.

Águas de Oxalá: what happens from Thursday to Dia do Pilão, why everything turns white and why the date changes from house to house in candomblé ketu and nagô.

Bará do Mercado: what are the Sete Chaves on the floor of the Mercado Público de Porto Alegre, who settled the orixá there, what the povo de santo do when passing by, and the law.

Who is Exu Gira Mundo in Umbanda and Quimbanda: what Prandi, Pai Maneco's booklet and a Brasília research record, and what circulates without a source.

Preto Velho day is May 13, the date of the Lei Áurea. See where the November 20 proposal comes from, what the houses do on that day, and what day of the week it falls on.

Preto Velho names combine Pai, Vovó, or Tio, a saint's name, and a place. See what each part means, what research confirms, and what circulates without a source.

The sung chant (ponto cantado) of preto velho is the song of the gira, and the lyrics speak of captivity less than it seems. See what three studies found and who chooses what the house sings.

Is Preto Velho Exu? Generally no: Umbanda places them on opposite sides. However, some research describes the preto velho da mata, the cruzado, and the quimbandeiro in a few houses.

How to report religious intolerance: call 190 if the crime is happening, keep the evidence, file a police report, and use Disque 100, which accepts anonymous reports.

National Day to Combat Religious Intolerance is January 21, by Law 11.635. See the law, the history of Mãe Gilda, and the difference from March 21.

The law against religious intolerance is Law 7.716/1989: art. 20 provides for imprisonment of 1 to 3 years and a fine. See the other articles, the penalties, and what the law does not say.

Religious racism is the attack on Afro-Brazilian religions linked to racism. See the difference from religious intolerance, the law, the report, and the numbers.

Terreiros listed by IPHAN: the list with city, nation, date of decision and registration date of each house, what the listing protects and how it differs from registration.

In the week, Ossaim (Osanyin) Day is Thursday in most sources; in the year, October 5, in Umbanda. See the 5 answers, the saints, and what no one explains.

Offering for Ossaim (Ossain): what open sources record, such as tobacco leaf, cachaça and honey, where it is delivered and what is the house's foundation. No recipe.

Ossaim and Oxóssi are confused because they share the forest, Thursday, and even the roncó. See how ketu, angola, and jeje separate them, and what Erinlé, Agué, and the honey are.

The most attested herbs of Exu are pepper, aroeira and corredeira. See what two terreiros from Bahia and Umbanda studies link to Exu, and what has no source.

There is a child of Exu in Candomblé, but it is rare and depends on the nation. See what Prandi and other research record about the children of Exu and what is just a stereotype.

The ponto riscado of Exu is the guardian's signature. See what a study of 318 points found, how each house reads the lines and why the drawing is not copied.

Exu consecrated foundation (assentamento) is the material dwelling of Exu, made by the house. See the Exu of the gate and that of each initiate in Candomblé, the guardian in Umbanda and who does it.

The bead necklace of Exu is black and red in Umbanda and Ketu Candomblé, with variations by house. See the materials, the Exu Caveira bead necklace, who crosses it and who can use it.

The symbols of Exu in Candomblé (ogó, laterita, búzios, key) and in Umbanda (trident, cape, top hat, skull): what each one says and where each one came from.

Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas is not Exu Sete Encruzilhadas: who is the spirit guide of Zélio de Moraes, where the name, the line, Malagrida, and Pai Antônio come from.

Umbanda Day is November 15, by Law 12.644 of 2012. See why the date was chosen, if it is a holiday, and how the terreiros celebrate the festival.

The Umbanda Hymn has lyrics by the Portuguese José Manoel Alves and became official at the 1961 congress. See the history, the legend of the blind author, and how the houses sing it.

Zélio de Moraes was the medium that tradition links to the foundation of Umbanda. See his life: family, pharmacy, councilman in São Gonçalo, the tents and the Cabana.

The odu of the year is the sign that the oracle gives for the new year, drawn by priests, and not by account. See the 16 odus, the odu of 2026 and why the sum of the date fails.

The ruling orixá of 2026 was Ogum for some houses and Oxóssi for others. See who announced what, the Letter of the Year of Cuba, and where all this confusion comes from.

The most cited ruling orixá of 2027 is Iemanjá, because the year begins on a Friday. See who has already announced, by which method and when the candomblé casts.

In the gaúcho batuque, the ruler of the year is the orixá of the day of the week of January 1st or comes from the house búzios. See Ogum and Iansã in 2026 and the Friday of 2027 in RS.

Wearing white in the new year comes from the Iemanjá festivals, with Umbandistas in white on the beach since the 1950s. See the origin, the colors and if it can be used in 2027.

Lighting a candle for the souls is a Monday gesture, at home, in church, or at the crossroads. See what changes between Catholic devotion and Umbanda, and what not to do.

The Cross of Souls (Cruzeiro das Almas) is the central cross of the cemetery and, in some terreiros, a corner of the house. See where it comes from, who works on it, and how to behave there.

On All Souls' Day in Umbanda, some people go to the Cross of Souls (Cruzeiro das Almas) and honor Obaluaê. See the origin of the date, Quimbanda, Candomblé, and what to avoid on November 2nd.

Exu das Almas is not a single Exu: it is the surname of the falange of those who work in the cemetery and at the crossroads. See the names, what the research says and the ponto riscado.

The line of the souls is, in most houses, that of the pretos-velhos, greeted with Adorei as almas. See who works in it, who governs it, and why it moves from house to house.

The day of Cosme and Damião is September 27 in Brazil and 26 in the Church calendar since 1969. See what changed in 1969 and what is done on the day in each tradition.

Cosme and Damião sweets: why they are distributed on September 27, what is the difference between the little bag and the sweet from the santo's table, and when it is to be taken.

Marie Laveau was a free black woman from New Orleans, a Voodoo priestess and Catholic her whole life. See what the records prove and what became legend.

Names of erês follow a rule: in Candomblé they come from the head orixá, in Umbanda they are diminutives plus a place surname. See the names with field sources.

Hoodoo is the African-American magic system of the southern United States. See where it came from, why it uses psalms from the Bible and what the difference is from vodu.

Who is Doum: the name comes from Ìdòwú, which in Yoruba names those born after twins. See what is documented, what is devotion, and what has no source at all.

The voodoo doll exists, but the true figure protects instead of harming. See what the bocio of the Fon is, and how the pin became a cliché in 1930s cinema.

Vodu is a religion of African origin born in ancient Daomé, where Benin and Togo are today. See the origin, who the voduns are, and how the worship arrived in Brazil.

Haitian Vodu and Candomblé Jeje come from the same African trunk. See who the lwa are, what the house of worship is like, and what resembles the Brazilian terreiro.

The voduns are the deities of the Jeje nation. See who each one is, the houses of Bahia and Maranhão, and what changes on the floor of the barracão when the house is from Mina.

Axero is the state in which the filho de santo stays when the orixá says goodbye in the batuque: a childlike manner and mixed speech. See when it happens and how to act.

In the xirê, the circle turns counter-clockwise and each gesture recalls an orixá. See who enters the circle, what the body does, and what happens when the orixá arrives.

The herbs of Oxóssi change with the house: São-gonçalinho in Ketu Candomblé, fern and guiné in Umbanda. See the body ritual bath and why the amaci is from the house.

Exu Gato Preto is an Exu of the left line registered in houses in SP, MG, and PR. See what he does, the pair with Dama da Noite, and why the legend has no source.

The names of Exu, one by one: those of the orixá, such as Bará and Lonã, and those of the guardians of Umbanda and Quimbanda, such as Tranca Ruas and Caveira. Find out who each one is.

Did Exu's trident come from the Christian devil or from African horns? See the researchers' findings, the difference from the pombagira trident, and the iron trident.

Preto velho bead necklace: who can use it without being from Umbanda, why it carries Our Lady's tear, the colors that change from house to house and what to do if it breaks.

Yes, one can: besides the head orixá, Ketu Candomblé and Umbanda houses recognize the juntó, a third orixá, and even an inherited orixá. The oracle decides.

Pombagira Menina is a spiritual legion (falange) of pombagira in many houses and the name of the mirim line in others. See the Menina da Praia, the one from the Cabaré, and what she receives in the gira.

The offering for Oxumaré has the sweet potato in the center, often shaped like a snake. See what goes in the alguidar, the colors, the day and where to deliver with care.

There is no formal written prohibition, but Candomblé Ketu houses prefer burial in the earth. See why, the case of the drawer, who decides, and what the law requires.

The batuque drummer is the one who leads the prayers and conducts the toque. See how they are formed, from the agê to the axé of the drum, what alabê is, who owns the drum, and the fee.

Xangô Ayrá wears white and carries Oxalá on his back. Some houses treat him as a quality of Xangô, others as an orixá of his own. See colors, beads, and the festival.

Pombagira Maria Quitéria is a falange of Quimbanda and Umbanda, with no connection to the heroine of Independence. See colors, offerings, greeting, and qualities.

The most registered precept in Umbanda is 24 hours before the gira, without meat, alcohol and sex. See what five houses request and why the rule changes.

Caruru of Cosme and Damião: who eats first, why the seven boys eat with their hands, what goes into the complete caruru and how the vow caruru works.

Does the 7-day candle need to have the plastic removed? Joice shows how to light it the right way, where to leave it, why it goes out by itself, and if it can be lit in the bedroom.

Is the Oxóssi bead necklace green or blue? See the color in Ketu Candomblé and in Umbanda, why it changes from Bahia to Rio, who can use it, and what the Oxóssi and Oxum bead necklaces are.

Mariô de Ogum: what is the shredded leaf of the dendezeiro, why it stays at the door and on Ogum's clothing, how it changes from Ketu to Umbanda and if it can be used at home.

Ogum bead necklace: what it is for, who can use it without being the child of the orixá, why it is red in Umbanda and dark blue in Ketu, and what to do if it breaks.

Malandros in Umbanda: the line beyond Zé Pelintra, with Maria Navalha and other names, colors, clothing, drink, greeting, and the relationship with Exu and with the baianos.

Linha Cruzada is the Gaúcho house that worships the orixá of batuque, the caboclo of umbanda, and the exu of quimbanda in separate sessions. Origin, numbers, and how it works.

Pombagira Dama da Noite in research and in terreiros: which Exu she works with, what she gains, the colors that change from house to house, and what circulates only as legend.

Tempo orixá: who is Kitembo, the inquice of Candomblé de Angola, what the white flag means, the colors, the festival of August 10, and the connection with Iroko.

Batuque festival: what happens in the adjá hall until the market, who can watch, what to wear and the rule that almost every visitor breaks without knowing.

Abô is the cold-macerated leaf water that Candomblé uses in ritual bath, assentamento and obrigação. See what it is for, who prepares it and what separates it from amaci.

Offering for Nanã (Nana Buruku): what goes in the alguidar, why metal is left out, where to lay it down, and what stays for the house. The complete guide, with an open and checked source.

Who is Exu Capa Preta in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: day, colors, greeting, offering and power point (ponto de força), and what changes from one terreiro to another.

Who is Exu do Lodo in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: day, colors, greeting, offering and ponto de força (power point), and why his regency changes from house to house.

Who is Exu do Ouro in Umbanda: day, colors, greeting, offering and what is asked of him, and why his worship is recent and discussed among the houses.

Who is Exu Meia-Noite in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: day, colors, greeting, offering and power point (ponto de força), and why he is linked to the opening of the gira.

Who is Exu Morcego in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: day, colors, greeting, offering and power point (ponto de força), and what changes from one terreiro to another.

What is Pombagira's drink according to those who researched terreiro: sparkling wine, white wine, vermouth, and cider. Why it changes by spirit, and what not to offer.

How to ask for a blessing in Candomblé ketu without making mistakes: what motumbá and mo júbà are, when the gesture is dobale and when it is iká, and to whom you should not ask for a blessing.

What to ask the caboclo in the Umbanda gira: his field is herbs, cleansing, and path. See what to bring, how to speak to him, and what is never asked.

Get to know the qualities of Iansã in Ketu Candomblé: Onirá in pink, Kará in red, Ijibé in white, and the four Oyás of Igbalé, the group that deals with the egum.

Pombagira consecrated foundation (assentamento): what it is for, what it usually consists of, who can have one, and why it cannot be assembled at home. The path goes through the house and the divination.

What preto velho likes to receive: coffee, rolled tobacco leaf, white and black candles, and flowers. See the day to bring it, where to leave the offering, and what not to offer to him.

Who can perform bori: non-initiates, abiã and iaô can receive. See what the house requires first, the resguardo (period of ritual restraint) that comes after, and why the ritual is not performed at home.

Erva-doce is the leaf of Oxum for the sweetening ritual. See the fundamento with the orixá, the ritual bath, the smoke cleansing, the cozinha de santo and why the market sells fennel.

Children of Iansã: what tradition records about temperament in light and shadow, the pumpkin quizila, what changes between Igbalé and Onirá, and who confirms the head.

Understand what the peji is, the santo room where the orixás' assentamentos are kept, who can enter, what the pejigã oversees and how the space changes in each nation.

Offering for Oxalá: why the plate goes white, without salt and without dendê, what goes in its place, the old man's canjica, the young man's yam, and the correct day to deliver.

Meet Pombagira Rosa Caveira, the spirit of the small calunga: field of action, day, colors, offerings and her difference from Maria Padilha and Maria Mulambo.

Batuque clothing piece by piece: the axó, the bombacha, the skirt, and the head cloth. When white is mandatory and why the color of the axó is not a matter of taste.

Discover how to understand dreams in Umbanda, the warning signs from spirit guides, the process of astral projection during sleep, and what to do right after waking up.

Passagens dos orixás in batuque: the two meanings of the term, the list by orixá with spelling variations, and what changes in the bead necklace, the food, and the adjuntó.

First time in Umbanda: what to wear, what to bring, how the consultation line works, what not to ask the spirit, and how to know if the house is truly serious.

Who is Exu Sete Facadas in quimbanda: day, colors, greeting, drink, tools and offering of the falange do corte, and why it is not confused with the pombagira.

Children of Xangô: the characteristics in light and shadow, what changes in Airá and Aganju, and why the head orixá is only confirmed in the house's cowrie-shell divination (jogo de búzios).

Offering for Oxóssi: the red corn axoxô with coconut, the right fruits, why honey is a quizila of the hunter orixá, and where to deliver the offering in the woods.

Pano da costa: what it is for, how to tie it at each level of initiation, the difference in relation to the ojá, the correct measurement and why the piece is for female use.

Baptism in Umbanda: what the ceremony is like, who can be baptized, what the godfather and godmother assume, what to bring on the day, and what changes from one house to another.

Orixá foods in the Batuque of Rio Grande do Sul: what each orixá eats, the difference between dry food and comida de axé, and why the amalá is not the one from Candomblé.

Who is Exu Veludo in quimbanda and in umbanda: day, colors, greeting, drink, offering and power point (ponto de força), and what changes from one terreiro to another.

How to care for your orixá at home with the 7 steps of osé, the routine of care in Candomblé. See what you can do alone and what only the terreiro can do for you.

What your orixá says about you: the virtue and shadow of each orixá, what research confirms, and why two children of the same orixá are never the same.

The clay alguidar is the plate where the offering is served in Candomblé and Umbanda. See what it is for, what size to use, and why the clay cannot have varnish.

The tools of the orixás are ritual objects that materialize the function of each orixá. See what the oxé, ofá, abebê, xaxará, and the tool of each orixá is.

The black candle is not black magic. See what it is really for in quimbanda and in umbanda, when to use it alone or with the red one and how to light it safely.

Spiritist center: see how the public meeting night works, what to wear, what to bring, why nothing is charged, and what differentiates the house from a terreiro.

Orunkó is the initiation name received in the initiation of Candomblé Ketu. See how the name arrives, how it is announced at the exit of iaô and what changes in each nation.

Santa Sara Kali is the patron saint of the Romani people, worshipped in the French Camargue. See the history, the pilgrimage of May 24, and why the Church did not canonize her.

Exu de guarda is the guardian who answers for you. See the difference from the Exu orixá, the types that each house recognizes and why only the jogo (divination) reveals the name.

Initiation degrees in Batuque: what separates cabeça lavada, bori, pronto, and pronto with faca and búzio, and what each step authorizes within the house of nation.

Mastruz what it is for in Umbanda and in health: the healing herb of Omulu, how to make the ritual bath, the tea and the smoke cleansing and the serious precautions regarding the plant's toxicity.

Offering for Xangô: what to bring to the orixá of justice, which foods and drinks to offer, where to leave the offering in the quarry, and on which dates the houses hold the festival.

The Lovers in tarot is arcanum VI, the card of choice. See the profile, the symbols of the two trees, what Waite wrote in 1910, and the reversed reading.

Understand the qualities of Ogum, the paths of the warrior orixá in Candomblé and Umbanda: Onirê, Xoroquê, Beira-Mar, Rompe-Mato, and why only the terreiro reveals.

The bead necklace is the ritual necklace of Umbanda. See materials, firmness, why colors change from house to house, how to consecrate it, and what to do if it breaks.

Our Home is the spiritual colony described by André Luiz. See the six ministries, the Governadoria, the bonus-hour, and why the work does not call the colony heaven.

Saint Expedite is the patron of urgent causes. See who the soldier of Melitene was, the legend of the crow, the traditional prayer, and what is prayed on April 19.

The High Priestess in the tarot is arcana II, the card of what is still hidden. See the profile, the symbols of the veil, what Waite wrote in 1910 and the reversed reading.

Obligation in the Batuque runs on two clocks: the annual cycle of the ilê and the tempo de santo of each filho de santo. See the stages, from Bará to the levantação, to the festa and to the passeio.

Pombagira Sete Saias is a falange of the feminine of Exu. See the readings on what the seven skirts mean, the colors, the day and what varies from house to house.

Egum in Candomblé is not an evil spirit. Understand what Babá Egungun is, why the worship is separate from that of the orixá and how it survived on the Island of Itaparica.

Guide for the offering for Iansã: what to assemble, where to deliver in the field or in the bamboo grove, how many candles to light, and why pumpkin and lamb are always left out.

Umbanda branca, omolokô, traçada, esotérica, and Almas and Angola: see what changes in each branch of Umbanda in the atabaque, on the left, and in the relationship with the orixá.

Calunga grande is the sea and calunga pequena is the cemetery. Understand the Bantu root of the word, the line that separates the living and the dead, and who works in each of them.

Hot and cold herbs have opposite uses in the ritual bath. See which are the hot, lukewarm and cold herbs, why the hot one does not go on the head and how to use each one.

Ibeji in Batuque are the twin orixás, linked to Xangô and Oxum. See the complete profile, the table served to the children, the colors and the syncretism with Cosme and Damião.

The Book of Mediums is the second work of Allan Kardec's codification. See the structure, the types of medium, what Kardec says about obsession, and where to start.

The Magician in the tarot is arcanum I, the card of the power to manifest. See the complete profile, the symbols on the table, what Waite wrote in 1910 and the reversed reading.

Promise to a saint: understand what the Church actually teaches, the traditional ways to pay, and the path provided for those who could not fulfill what they promised.

Sung chants in Umbanda: what they are, what they are for, the types (opening, calling, firmeza, ascent), and the difference from the ponto riscado inside the gira.

Understand the qualities of Xangô, the paths of the orixá of justice in Candomblé: Airá, Aganju, Obakossô, Afonjá and why only the terreiro reveals the fundamento.

Saint Anthony and Ogum: why the matchmaker saint is the warrior orixá in Bahia, the difference from Saint George in the Southeast, and syncretism as resistance.

Meet the inquices of Candomblé de Angola: who is each one, from Nkosi to Lemba, their function, their origin in Kongo and the corresponding orixá in parallel with Ketu.

What is the difference between batuque and candomblé? See origin, geography, nations, names of the orixás and the liturgy of the two orixá religions, side by side.

The gira de quimbanda is the session of Exu and Pombagira. See what the gira de esquerda is, the stages of the ritual, what is offered and how to behave in the house.

What is The Gospel According to Spiritism, by Allan Kardec: the date, the 28 chapters, the morality of Jesus, the prayers, and the use in Gospel at Home.

The Fool in tarot speaks of beginnings and the leap into the dark, but Waite said something else. See the profile of arcana 0, the symbols, the reversed, and the dispute of 0 or XXII.

Obi is the kola nut and orobô is the Garcinia kola: fruits from different families. See what each one is used for, the obi game, the offering, and who can handle them.

Vence-demanda is the Justicia gendarussa, an herb of Ogum used to cut demanda. See the plant's profile, the confusion of names, the ritual bath and why it is not drunk.

The cambone serves the spirit incorporated during the consultation. See what they do, what is prohibited, the ethics of secrecy, and why it is not the same as ekedi or ogã.

Acaçá is the white corn dough wrapped in a banana leaf. See the fundamento, the difference between èko and àkàsà, who receives it and the name in each nation.

Saint Benedict was born free, the son of enslaved Africans in Sicily. See who the black saint was, why he became the patron of brotherhoods, and where he is celebrated.

The Star in tarot speaks of hope, faith, and healing after the blow, but it guarantees nothing. See the profile of Arcana XVII, the symbols, the reversed position, and the shadow side.

The difference between Umbanda and Quimbanda is not exactly good versus evil. See the origin, spirits, giras, and offerings of each, and why so many houses practice both.

Orixá de frente is the owner of the head and de junto is the adjuntó who accompanies. Understand the pair of the RS Batuque, how the jogo de búzios reveals it, and what it changes.

Understand the qualities of Iemanjá, the paths of the orixá of the sea in Candomblé: what the main ones are, the oldest one, and why the fundamento belongs to the terreiro.

Oxalá's Carpet is the boldo, the leaf of peace of Oxalá. See what the boldo ritual bath is for, how to perform the spiritual cleansing, the smoke cleansing (defumação), and the care instructions.

The umbral in Spiritism is not hell nor eternal punishment, and the term is not in Kardec. See what the Spiritist literature describes and how the doctrine sees the exit.

Candomblé atabaques: what rum, rumpi, and lé do in the xirê, who holds the position to play, aguidavi or mão, and which toques call each Orixá in each nation.

Children of Ogum: the characteristics, the personality in light and shadow, and the archetype of the warrior orixá, and why this is not a horoscope or an internet test.

Offering for Ogum: the yam with dendê, the right drink, the toothpick step by step, where to deliver in the woods or on the road and what the quizila of okra says.

Senhor do Bonfim and Oxalá: why the Christ of the Bahian hill was associated with the orixá of creation, how the Lavagem was born, and what truly separates the two.

Mediumship development in Umbanda happens in the terreiro's corrente. See how to join, the phases of irradiation to firmeza, and how long it actually takes.

The crossroads in Quimbanda changes meaning depending on the shape and the ground. See what the cross, the T, and the chicken foot say, and the correct etiquette for the offering.

Bead necklaces in Batuque show which Orixá you belong to. See the colors of each Orixá, how the necklace is crossed, and what to never do.

The Sun in tarot speaks of clarity, joy, and truth, but does not guarantee success. See the profile of arcana XIX, the symbols, the reversed card, and the shadow side of the card.

Inner reform is the effort of moral transformation through self-knowledge. See what it is in Spiritism, where to start, and Kardec's daily self-examination.

Saião, the leaf of fortune, is the leaf of Oxalá that multiplies the axé. See what it is for, which orixá it belongs to, how to use it in the ritual bath, in the amaci, and for health.

Festa da Boa Morte: who are the black sisters of Cachoeira, why the festival runs from August 13 to 17, and how Catholicism and Candomblé Ketu share the date.

Firmeza in Umbanda: what it means to firm, the difference from the assentamento, the four types of firmeza and the safe step by step of firming a candle at home.

Obligations in Candomblé: what changes in each cycle, from the first year to the deká of seven years, and how ketu, jeje and angola name each stage of the life of santo.

The Moon in tarot speaks of intuition, fear, and illusion, not of bad luck. See the profile of Arcana XVIII, the symbols of the card, the reversed reading, and the yes or no answer.

Curimba in Umbanda is who sings and plays in the gira. See the three atabaques, the rhythms, the types of sung chant (ponto cantado), who can be ogã and if a gira exists without drums.

Ossanha in Batuque is the orixá of the leaves and of the omieró. See colors, day, Eu-Eu greeting, foods, tools, adjuntó, and the syncretism that varies by house.

Meet Pombagira Cigana: who is this spirit of freedom and love, her colors, her day, the offerings, and how she works in Umbanda and Quimbanda.

Understand the qualities of Oxum, the paths or avatars of the orixá of fresh waters in Candomblé: what are the main ones and why is the fundamento from the terreiro.

Discover who Bezerra de Menezes was, the doctor of the poor and Brazilian Kardec: his life, the abolitionist struggle, the presidency of the FEB and the Spiritist legacy.

The Tower in tarot is neither a curse nor something done to you. Understand Arcana XVI: the symbolism of the lightning, the origin of the card, and the meaning upright and reversed on the table.

Padê is the food, ipadê is the ceremony. Understand the rite that opens the Ketu Candomblé: who conducts it, what it carries, what time it happens and why it comes first.

Saint Jerome and Xangô: who was the saint of the lion, why he was associated with the orixá of justice, and why the answer changes depending on the region and the casa de santo.

Candomblé de caboclo worships the enchanted ones of the earth alongside the orixás. Understand the Bahian origin, the connection with the Angola nation, Jurema, and July 2nd.

Dandá da Costa is the dried tuber of the tiririca. See what the root is for, which orixá it belongs to, how to perform the ritual bath and smoke cleansing (defumação), and what should never be done.

Iroko is the Orixá who lives in the sacred tree of the terreiro. See the complete profile, the white gameleira, the offerings and the difference between Iroko, Loko and Tempo.

Psychography is the communication of Spirits through writing. See the three types defined by Kardec, how it works in the Spiritist center and what the courts decided.

Obá (Oba) in Batuque closes the class of the new orixás. See colors, day, Exó greeting, foods with pineapple, tools, adjuntó, and the syncretism with Santa Catarina.

Ponto riscado in Umbanda is the signature of the spirit. Understand the pemba, the colors, the families of symbols, how the ponto is settled and why it is not copied.

Our Lady of the Rosary and the congado: the history of the brotherhoods of black men, the purchase of manumission, the coronation of the King of Congo, and the IPHAN registration.

The Devil in tarot does not announce a curse or a hex. Understand Arcane XV: the symbolism of the card, the loose chains, and the meaning upright and reversed.

What is a tronqueira, why is it located at the entrance of the terreiro, what lives inside, who can touch it, and what is the difference between tronqueira and cafua in Quimbanda.

What is axexê, the funeral rite of Candomblé: the three purposes, the destiny of the assentamentos, who goes through it, how long it lasts and the names in each nation.

Practical guide for offering to Iemanjá: what to take, how to assemble, where to deliver even far from the sea and what should never go into the water. With real sources.

Oiá in Batuque is the third of the line and the first female orixá. See colors, day, greeting, foods, tools, adjuntó, and the syncretism in Rio Grande do Sul.

Romani spirits in Umbanda: the Romani people of the Eastern Line, where they stay in each house, the festival, colors, names and what is offered, with what the researchers recorded.

How to cleanse the tarot deck with smoke cleansing (defumação), moon, crystals, and coarse salt without contact. The difference between cleansing, energizing, and consecrating, and what to never do.

Exu Mirim is not a child spirit. Understand what mirim means, the difference from the erê, the colors, the greeting, the offerings, and what varies from house to house.

The bay leaf is the herb of victory, linked to Oxalá and Xangô. See the foundation with the orixás, the use in the ritual bath, in the smoke cleansing (defumação), and in the wallet.

Who was Allan Kardec, the French professor Hippolyte Rivail who codified Spiritism. Biography, the 5 works, the research method and the legacy in Brazil.

Saint Roch and Obaluaê: who was the saint of dogs and plagues, why August 16 became the day of Omolu in the terreiros, and how he differs from Saint Lazarus.

Who is Exu Sete Encruzilhadas, the guardian of the paths in Quimbanda and Umbanda: meaning, greeting, day, colors, offerings, and why he is not the devil.

The month of Obaluaê is August, with the 16th at its peak and the syncretism with Saint Roch. See why the period belongs to the orixá of healing and how to honor Omolu at home.

Understand what it means to be iaô in Candomblé: the feitura de santo, the camarinha, the quelê, the resguardo and the obligations of 1, 3 and 7 years until becoming ebomi.

Odé and Otim in Batuque are the hunter orixás who walk in pairs. See colors, day, greeting, foods, and the syncretism of the forest couple in the Gaucho Batuque.

The pipoca of Obaluaê, the doburu, is the ritual food of the orixá of healing. Understand the meaning, why it is popped in the sand and how to offer the flower of Omolu.

Death, Arcana 13 of the tarot, almost never speaks of physical death: it speaks of the end of a cycle. See the symbolism and the meaning in the upright and reversed positions.

August has a reputation as the month of misfortune, but in Umbanda it is the month of Exu and of Obaluaê. Understand why and see the baths and protective guards of the period.

The Spirits' Book, by Allan Kardec, founded Spiritism in 1857. Understand what it is, the four parts, the five pillars of the doctrine and where to start.

What is the color of each orixá's bead necklace (guia)? See the color of Iansã, Xangô, Nanã, Oxóssi and the others in Umbanda and in Candomblé, and the right candle for each one.

The eucalyptus ritual bath in Umbanda serves for spiritual cleansing (descarrego) and cleansing, because it is an herb of Oxalá and Ogum. See how to perform the ritual bath, the smoke cleansing (defumação), and the contraindications.

The sailors in Umbanda are the joyful spirit guides of the water people, linked to Iemanjá and Oxum. See who they are, how they work in the gira, greeting, day and offering.

Fluidified water: what it is according to Kardec, how fluidotherapy works and the step by step to prepare and use magnetized water at home with prayer.

Romani deck: the meaning of the 36 cards, the most used spreads, and the Lenormand reading rules that do not exist in tarot. Complete guide.

What is Ori in Candomblé: the sacred head, the personal orixá that guides destiny, the difference between ori inu and ori ode and why it is praised first.

Offering for Exu in Quimbanda: what to offer, where to deliver each type, the difference between firmeza and assentamento, the most common mistakes, and what to collect.

Oxalá in Batuque is the oldest orixá, the father who closes the line, from Bará to Oxalá. See his paths, the color white, the day, the foods, and the Gaucho syncretism.

Saint Michael the Archangel: who he is, what the biblical passages say, why the festival of September 29 became the day of the three archangels, and why he does not have a fixed orixá.

The seven herbs ritual bath cleanses, protects, and opens paths. See what the seven sacred herbs are, the orixá of each leaf, and the step by step to prepare it at home.

Gira de umbanda is the terreiro session where mediums sing, incorporate the guias, and attend to the public. See how it works, the types, and how to attend your first one.

Ewá (Euá or Yewá) is the orixá of the springs, of the horizon and of clairvoyance, daughter of Nanã or of Obatalá according to the itã. Origin, colors, greeting and where she is worshipped.

Quartinha: what it is, what goes inside, what it is for, and how to change the water of the sacred vessel of umbanda and candomblé without losing the house's fundamento.

Exu Tiriri is the guardian of spiritual cleansing: he undoes demanda, removes heavy loads, and opens paths. See how he works, the colors, offerings, and greeting.

Saint Bartholomew and Oxumaré: the syncretism of the apostle with the rainbow orixá, why the feast is August 24, and how the two traditions cross without confusing each other.

Indian clove ritual bath: what it is for, step by step recipe, the combination with cinnamon and how to take it to attract prosperity and clear dense energies.

Monday is the day of Exu, Tuesday of Ogum, Wednesday of Xangô and Iansã, Thursday of Oxóssi, Friday of Oxalá and Saturday of Iemanjá and Oxum. And Sunday varies according to the house.

Which orixá rules each month? See the monthly calendar of the orixás in umbanda and Candomblé, from January to December, and the orixá of the month you were born.

Assentamento of orixá: what is the igbá orixá in Candomblé, the role of the otá, how the axé is fixed and why only the babalorixá prepares this sacred foundation.

Law of cause and effect in Spiritism: understand Kardec's law of action and reaction, the connection with reincarnation, karma and the tests that life brings.

Love tarot: understand how the reading for relationships works, which spreads to use, and the meaning of The Lovers, Temperance, and other cards in affection.

Saint Barbara's Sword is the plant of Iansã, the guardian against lightning and dense energy. See the meaning, the difference from Saint George's, and how to care for it.

Who is Obá, the warrior Orixá of the turbulent river waters. See the myth of the ear, the relationship with Xangô, the colors, the day, the offerings, and her syncretism.

Xapanã in Batuque is the Orixá of health and diseases, the owner of the broom that sweeps away evils. See who he is, colors, day, greeting, offerings, and the syncretism.

Erês are the child spirits of Umbanda, the Ibejada. The day of the erês is September 27, and the festivities continue until October. See how they work and what to offer.

Maria Mulambo is the pombagira who cleanses, breaks demands, and opens paths in the life of those who ask for help. See who she is, the legend, the colors, offerings, and the greeting.

What is sacudimento, what it is for, and which herbs to use. Understand the bate-folhas technique, the house sacudimento, and why it requires guidance from a pai or mãe de santo.

Saint Lazarus and Obaluaê: why the saint of the sores became the orixá of healing, the difference from Saint Roch, and the feast dates. Understand the syncretism of Omulu.

Reversed cards in tarot: understand what they really mean, the methods to read blocked energy, and why beginners can start without them.

Iemanjá in Batuque is the queen of the sea and mother of the orixás. See her qualities, colors, offerings, greeting, and the syncretism with Our Lady of the Navigators.

What is the perispírito in Spiritism? Understand the semi-material body that links the spirit to the physical body, its functions, and the relationship with mediumship.

The colônia is the herb of Iemanjá and Oxalá for peace, calm, and balance. See what it is for, how to do the colônia bath, and the contraindications of the plant.

What is the jogo de búzios, the merindilogun of Candomblé? Understand how the reading of the odus works, who can perform it, and the difference from the Ifá oracle.

Who is Ibeji, the orixá of twins and children? Learn the profile, the itan of Iansã and Oxum, the greeting, and the syncretism with Cosme and Damião.

Boiadeiros in Umbanda: who are the cowboy guides of the sertão, what line they come from, the Getruá greeting, the colors, the offerings, and how they drive the herd in the gira.

Who is Exu Marabô, the guardian of the paths in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: the line, the day, the colors, the drink, the offerings, and why he is not the devil.

Saint Anne and Nanã meet on July 26: the grandmother of Jesus and the oldest of the orixás. See the syncretism, the Salubá greeting, and the offerings.

Gospel at Home: what it is, how to perform the worship step by step, meeting script, fluidified water, day, time and how long it lasts, according to Spiritism.

Who is Oxum in Batuque: the queen of the fresh waters of the Ijexá nation, her qualities (Pandá, Demum, Docô), colors, day, greeting, foods, and the syncretism.

3 card spread in tarot: how to perform the reading of past, present and future step by step, formulate the question, shuffle and interpret the positions.

Offering for Oxum: what to offer (honey, yellow flowers, fruits, and sweets), how to assemble the gift, and where to deliver it at the waterfall, with a prayer for the Day of Oxum.

The aroeira ritual bath serves for strong spiritual cleansing (descarrego) and protection. See the bark bath recipe, which orixás rule it, and the precautions with this hot herb of axé.

Angola Candomblé Dialect Dictionary: more than 70 words in kimbundu and kikongo with translation, from Nzambi to Sakidila, organized by theme and how to use them.

Amaci is the sacred washing of the head with herbs that binds the medium to their orixá. Understand what it is, what it is for, the resguardo (period of ritual restraint), and who can conduct the rite.

The xirê is the circle of chants and dances that greets the orixás in Candomblé. Understand the order in ketu, the greetings, the padê de Exu, and the sense of the ancestral circle.

Meet the Baianos in Umbanda: who are the spirits of the baiano line, their colors, how they work in the gira and the syncretism with the Senhor do Bonfim.

Who is Logun Edé, the prince orixá son of Oxum and Oxóssi? Learn about the legend of the six months, the colors, the greeting, the symbols, and the syncretism of the orixá.

Saint Sebastian and Oxóssi: why the saint of the arrows became the hunter orixá in Rio de Janeiro, what changes in Bahia and Pernambuco, and what January 20 is like.

Understand the roles in Candomblé: abiã, iaô, ebômi, ekedi, ogã, and the zelador. Who enters a trance, who sustains the house, and how seniority works.

Who is Ogum in Batuque: the second orixá of axé, his passages (Avagã, Onirê, Adiolá), colors, day, the greeting Ogunhê and the syncretism with Saint George.

Peregum serves to protect and firm the head because it is the leaf of Ogum. See how to do the peregum bath (macerated, never boiled) and its role in the bori.

The 56 minor arcana of the tarot: the four suits and their elements, the progression from Ace to Ten, the court cards and how they detail each tarot reading.

Farofa de dendê is the padê de Exu: understand what the offering means, who it is intended for, and how to offer it at the crossroads or tronqueira with due respect.

Reincarnation in Spiritism: what it is according to Kardec, why we reincarnate, mission, trial, and expiation, and how the law of cause and effect explains life.

The 7 kingdoms of Quimbanda, one by one: Encruzilhadas, Cruzeiro, Matas, Calunga, Almas, Lira and Praia, the 63 peoples of Exu and why the list varies between houses.

The day of Oxum during the week is Saturday. During the year, it varies by region and house: December 8 (Conceição), July 16 (Carmo) and October 12 (Aparecida).

Om Mani Padme Hum: the meaning of the six syllables of the Tibetan Buddhist compassion mantra, who is Chenrezig and how to recite the mantra with the japamala.

Who was Saint Cyprian: the martyr saint, the legend of the converted mage with Saint Justina, the apocryphal Book of Saint Cyprian, and the popular devotion in Brazil.

Exu Caveira is the falange of exus who are guardians of the cemetery in Umbanda and in Quimbanda. See what he does in a person's life, the greeting, the day, the colors and the falange.

Learn the Celtic Cross spread in the tarot step by step: the meaning of the 10 positions, how to shuffle, when to use the method and common mistakes for beginners.

Understand the role of Xangô in Gaúcho Batuque and why the religion is called the Religion of Xangô: the alujá, the Scale and the King of the nations Oió and Cabinda.

The 7 lines of Umbanda: what they are, the ruling orixá of each one, the difference between line and falange, and why each terreiro organizes it its own way.

The 22 major arcana of the tarot and the meaning of each card, from the exchange of Strength and Justice to the journey of the Fool, and why Death is not literal death.

Ritual bath to open paths: what it is for, the right herbs and the step by step for preparation, and why to clear before opening and the best day.

Caboclos in Umbanda: who they are, which line they come from (Oxóssi and Ogum), how they work in the gira with healing and firmeza, the most common names and the Okê Caboclo greeting.

Disobsession in Spiritism: what obsession is, the degrees according to Kardec, how the disobsession meeting works, and why it is not an exorcism.

Nanã's day is July 26, the feast of Saint Anne. During the week, it varies between Sunday and Monday depending on the house. See how to greet the eldest of the orixás.

In Umbanda, Saint Peter is syncretized with Xangô and his day is June 29. Meet the saint of the keys of heaven and the June festivals that end the month of June.

Children of Iemanjá: the characteristics, the personality in light and shadow, and the archetype of the Queen of the Sea, and why this is not a horoscope or a self-test.

Children of Oxum: the characteristics, the personality in light and shadow, and the archetype of the iabá of the fresh waters, and why this is not a horoscope or a self-test.

Who is Maria Padilha, the queen of the pombagiras: her origin in the queen of Castile, the falanges, the day, the colors, and the truth behind the stigma.

Why is the patron saint of Brazil linked to Oxum? The history of 1717, Afro syncretism as resistance, and how Umbanda and Candomblé honor October 12.

Axé, from the Yoruba àṣẹ, is the vital force that animates orixás, people, leaves and the word. See the meaning in Umbanda and Candomblé and why it became a greeting.

Ebó is an offering, a ritual exchange to cleanse, thank, or ask, and not a spell. See what it is for, the most common types, and who can prescribe an ebó.

What is mediumship in Spiritism: understand the faculty according to Allan Kardec, the types of mediums, the signs, and how to educate this sensitivity with balance.

Olubajé is the great healing banquet of Omolu (Obaluaê), celebrated in August in Candomblé. Understand the meaning, when it happens and what is eaten in the rite.

The orixás of Gaucho Batuque in the order of the line, from Bará to Oxalá: the proper names of the tradition, what each one rules, the colors, and the variation by nation.

Spiritist spiritual pass: what it is, what it is for and how the laying on of hands works in Spiritism, the types of fluid and why it does not replace the doctor.

Pinhão roxo serves to guard the entrance of the house and is used in the cleansing bath. See how to plant and use it, and the serious alert: the plant is toxic, do not ingest.

Who is Exu Tranca Ruas, the guardian of the crossroads in Umbanda and in Quimbanda: his phalanges, the Laroyê greeting, the day, the offerings, and why he is not the devil.

Who is Iemanjá, the Queen of the Sea and Great Mother of the orixás: the mythology, the domains, the colors, the Odoyá greeting, the qualities, and the plural syncretism.

Quizila is the ritual prohibition that the filho de santo keeps in Candomblé and, in common Portuguese, antipathy. See the table of quizilas for each orixá, from Exu to Oxalá.

Saint Barbara and Iansã: the history of the saint of lightning, why she was associated with the orixá of winds, the festival on December 4, and the caruru in Salvador.

Saint George and Ogum: the history of the warrior saint, why he was associated with the orixá of iron, April 23, and why in Bahia he becomes Oxóssi, not Ogum.

Zé Pelintra: who is the malandro spirit guide of Umbanda and master of Jurema, how he works, July 7 and why he is not of evil nor is he Exu.

Who is Ossaim, the orixá owner of the leaves and the herbs? See the colors, the day, the Ewé ó greeting, the itans, and why without leaf there is no axé in Candomblé and Umbanda.

Who is Oxalá, the father of the orixás? See the color, the day, the greeting Epa Babá, the qualities Oxaguiã and Oxalufã, and the syncretism with Senhor do Bonfim.

Who is Oxóssi, the hunter orixá of the forests and abundance? Discover the colors, the day, the Okê Arô greeting, the axoxô food, and the syncretism with Saint Sebastian.

Discover the nations of Batuque from Rio Grande do Sul: Oyó, Jeje, Ijexá, Cabinda and Nagô and what distinguishes each one in the toque, in the language and in the prayers.

Dumb cane is the plant of protection against envy and the evil eye. See the meaning in Umbanda, the connection with Ogum, and how to care for it safely.

How to make an offering to the orixás with respect? See what to offer to each orixá, the right place for delivery (sea, forest, crossroads), and the step by step of the ritual.

How to know which is your head orixá: 7 signs that help you perceive, why only the jogo de búzios confirms, and what does NOT determine your ruling orixá.

Who are the pretos-velhos in Umbanda? Learn about their origin, symbols, spirits such as Pai Joaquim and Vovó Maria Conga, and the governance of the line of the souls.

Who is Ogum, the orixá of iron and the paths: colors, Tuesday, the Ogunhê greeting, the qualities, Ogum in Umbanda, and April 23, the day of Saint George.

Do you want to set up an Umbanda altar at home? See the 5 most common mistakes when setting up the congá and how to avoid them: location, statues, candles, water, and the right maintenance.

Learn how to use candles correctly in spiritual rituals: 6 tips to set the intention, light with safety, and discard the wax with all respect.

Cosme and Damião in Umbanda: understand who the Erês and Ibejis are, the syncretism with the twin saints, and how to set up the September 27 table step by step.

Iemanjá Day is August 15 in Rio's Umbanda, syncretized with Our Lady of Glory. Meet the Queen of the Sea: the Odoyá greeting, the colors, and the offerings.

Who is Nanã, the oldest orixá? Meet the lady of mud and ancestry, her colors, the Saluba Nanã greeting, the offerings, and the date of July 26.

Who is Oxumaré, the orixá of the rainbow snake, the cycles, and renewal? Meet the colors, the Arroboboi greeting, and why Oxumaré's day is August 24.

Who is Xangô, the orixá of justice and thunder: the king of Oió of myths, third or fourth alafim, Badé in Mina, colors by tradition, qualities, dates, and saints.

Learn how to do the Yes or No Tarot reading: how to formulate the question, which Arcana indicate yes, no, or maybe, and how to read the answer responsibly.

Amalá of Xangô: understand the meaning of okra in the justice of the orixá, the ingredients, and the step by step to prepare and offer the votive food with respect.

São João ritual bath: see which scented herbs to use, how to prepare and when to take this June ritual bath linked to Xangô, for cleansing, luck and prosperity.

Bará is the orixá of the paths and the crossroads in the Batuque of RS, the first to be greeted. Learn about his qualities, greeting, color, day, and offerings.

Nkise, nkisi or inquice? Understand what an nkise is: the divinity of Angola Candomblé, the Bantu sense of receptacle of force and why it is not just an orixá.

Understand the nations of Candomblé: the differences between Ketu, Jeje and Angola in origin, liturgical language, toque and deities (orixá, vodun and inquice).

Who is Pombagira: the Exu-woman of Umbanda and Quimbanda, of Bantu name. Origin, falanges, colors, Monday or Friday, and offering, according to research.

Mene Mene, Toma Kwiza, Ngunzo: understand the greetings of Candomblé de Angola, what each Bantu word means, and when to use them upon arriving at an Angola house.

What are the zuelas (muimbus) of Candomblé de Angola, the table linking inquices and orixás, from Aluvaiá to Lemba, and a playlist to listen to the chants.

Orixás Calendar 2026: the annual date and day of the week for each orixá, month by month. Discover which orixá rules today and when your own day falls.

Understand what Bori is in Candomblé: the ritual of giving food to the head (ori), why it is the first obrigação and how it differs from the feitura of orixá.

During the week, the day of Exu is Monday. During the year, it is June 13, due to the syncretism with Saint Anthony. Understand the difference and how to greet Exu with respect.

Understand what Umbanda is: the origin with Zélio de Moraes, the fundamentals, the seven lines, spirit guides such as caboclos and pretos-velhos and how a gira works.

Japamala: understand what it is, why it has 108 beads, how to use it in meditation with mantras and how to care for yours. Complete guide with reliable Buddhist sources.

Oxum is the Yoruba orixá of the Osun river, of fresh waters, gold, and love. See the technical sheet in Candomblé, Oxum in Umbanda house by house, myths, colors, and dates.

Coarse salt ritual bath for spiritual cleansing (descarrego): what it is for, how to do it from the neck down, how many times to take it, and how to replenish the axé with herbs after the bath.

See the complete list of Chico Xavier books: 412 psychographed works organized by decade, with the spiritual author and the year of Parnaso from 1932 to 1999.

Understand what Spiritism is: the doctrine codified by Allan Kardec, the five books, reincarnation, mediumship, and the difference from Umbanda and Candomblé.

Patuá is an Afro-Brazilian protection amulet: a cloth or leather pouch with herbs and prayers, consecrated in the terreiro. See what goes inside and how to use it.

Who is Exu? Meet the messenger orixá of Candomblé, the guardian exus of Umbanda and the history of the prejudice that unjustly transformed him into a 'devil'.

Who is Obaluaê (Omulu), the orixá of healing and the earth: the names, the straw clothing, the pipoca itãs, the saints of each house, and the parallel with Kavungo in Angola.

Discover who Chico Xavier was: the life of the medium from Pedro Leopoldo, the psychography of more than 400 books, the letters accepted in Court, and the legacy of charity.

Learn how to do a cleansing smoke (defumação de descarrego) on yourself or another person: signs of heavy energy, hot herbs, turning in the smoke, and when to seek a terreiro.

Learn how to do smoke cleansing for energetic cleansing of the house: cleansing and lustral herbs, step by step, order of the rooms, and safety precautions.

Understand what Batuque is, the religion of the orixás from Rio Grande do Sul: the nations, the 12 orixás, the greetings, the syncretism, and how a terreiro works.

Understand the tarot of the orixás: what it is, how it works, the meaning of the 22 cards, who can consult it and why it is not confused with cowrie-shell divination (jogo de búzios).

Understand what Candomblé is: the origin in Bahia, the Ketu, Jeje, and Angola nations, the worship of orixás, how the terreiro works, and why it is not a spell.

Quimbanda is an Afro-Brazilian religion that worships Exu and Pombagira. Understand the origin, the 7 kingdoms, the difference from Umbanda, and why it is not black magic.

The Indian clove ritual bath serves to attract prosperity and ward off discouragement. It is an herb of Oxalá and Oxum in umbanda: see how to make it and the skin precautions.

June saints and the orixás: understand the syncretism of Saint Anthony with Ogum, Saint John with Xangô and Saint Peter, and why June is the month of Xangô.

The guiné ritual bath serves for spiritual cleansing (descarrego), protection and opening of paths, and each purpose has its own recipe. See the step by step and what to expect.

The rosemary ritual bath in Umbanda serves to purify without agitating, because it is the herb of Oxalá. See how to do the ritual bath, the smoke cleansing (defumação) of the house, and the contraindications.

Rue is the leaf of Exu that Ogum carries. See the foundation with the two orixás, the mythology, the cleansing bath (banho de descarrego) step by step, and who should not take it.

Chamomile is the herb of which orixá? Of Oxalá and of Ibeji. See the foundation of the children's herb, the use in mourning and why it calms without extinguishing the axé.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) unites Oxum and Xangô, sweet attraction and strength. See the history, the difference from cassia, the 3 sticks ritual, and the ritual uses.

Erva-cidreira Melissa officinalis is the herb of mourning, consolation, and peace in the home. Learn the history, science, and how to differentiate it from Lippia alba.

Saint George's Sword (snake plant) is the most Brazilian protection plant. See why it belongs to Ogum, the syncretism with Saint George, and how to care for it inside the house.

Guiné is the herb of Ogum and Exu, the leaf of the cut and the breaking of demanda. See the fundamento, the mythology, how to use it in a ritual bath and the care it requires.

The mint ritual bath in Umbanda serves for prosperity and renewal, because it is the herb of Oxum and Logunedé (Logun Ede). See the three species, the correct recipe, and the precautions.

Lavender (alfazema) is the herb of deep peace. Learn how it entered Afro religions as the herb of Oxalá and how to use it in ritual baths and sachets.

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is the herb of deep cleansing ruled by Omulu. Learn when to use it, serious contraindications, and the traditional recipe.

Basil is the most used herb of Oxum to attract love and abundance in the home. Learn the history, the ritual bath recipe, and the authentic ritual uses.

Yellow for Oxum, white for Iemanjá, red for Pombagira. The rose is the most versatile flower of the Afro-Brazilian herbarium. See how to use each color.

Who is Iansã, the only orixá who rules the éguns: the winds, the lightning, the day and color card, the offerings, the greeting, and the myth that gave her the cemetery.

Meet the main lineages of Umbanda spirit guides: Caboclos, pretos-velhos, Exus, Pombagiras, and Crianças, and understand the role of each in the rituals.

Learn how to prepare the herbal bath for Oxum, orixá of love and sweet waters: the right herbs, the step by step recipe, the prayer, and the right day.

Complete guide on ritual candles in Afro-Brazilian religions and popular Catholicism. Learn the meaning of each color and how to use them correctly.

Umbanda and Candomblé are different religions, with their own origins, rituals and spirits. See the main differences and similarities between the two.

Get to know the Orixás, the deities of Afro-Brazilian religions: who they are, how they manifest, their domains, and their importance in Umbanda and Candomblé.