Another chant of Xangô, the just king of thunder. Listen to the video above and follow the lyrics.
Ikitê re o lokê odô
Oba lajô
Oba tani Oba lelwuo
Oba laieo
The lyrics and meaning
The spelling is phonetic. Oba (king) is repeated as an exaltation to Xangô, the Obá (Oba) Kossô the king of Kossô. The chant greets his majesty and his dominion over the heights (lokê) from where he throws the lightning.
Who is Xangô
Xangô is the orixá (orisha) of justice, thunder, and fire, the king of Oyó, lord of the lightning stone. Greeting: Kawó Kabiyesilé! See the complete profile of Xangô.
When this chant is sung
The chants of Xangô enter the xirê, generally in the alujá drumming, strong and majestic, befitting the king who dances with the oxê (double axe) in his hands.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'Kawó Kabiyesilé' mean?
It is the royal greeting to Xangô, something like 'Hail, Your Majesty!'. It recognizes Xangô as king (Obá) of Oyó, lord of justice and thunder.
