A chant of Iansã (Oyá), the orixá (orisha) of winds and storms. When calling her, one shouts Eparrei!. Listen in the video above.
Ajé mito ti Yao
Ajé mito ti Oya
Aé aé aé
Ajé mito ti Oya
Aé aé aé
Ajé mito ti Oya
The lyrics and meaning
The spelling is phonetic. The name Oyá (Iansã) is exalted in the refrain, along with yao (the initiate). It is a vibrant chant of greeting to the warrior of the winds, with the chorus responding aé aé aé typical of the swift and festive energy of Iansã.
Who is Iansã
Iansã, also called Oyá, is the orixá of winds, storms, and lightning, the lady of the eguns, a fearless warrior. Greeting: Eparrei, Oyá! See the complete profile of Iansã.
When this chant is sung
The chants of Iansã enter the xirê and greet her as the warrior of the winds. When calling her, one shouts Eparrei!.
Frequently asked questions
Are Iansã and Oyá the same orixá?
Yes. 'Oyá' is the Yoruba name; 'Iansã' is how she is best known in Brazil. She is the orixá of winds, lightning, and storms, and the only one who commands the eguns (spirits of the dead).
