A Xangô chant with translation, as transcribed by the community. Listen in the video above.
Oba ní sà rè lóòkè odó
Ó bé rí omon
Oba ní sà rè lóòkè odó
Oba kòso ayò
The lyrics and meaning
The spelling is phonetic and the transcription included the translation: 'He is the king who can tear you apart over the mortar; the one who greets the children like a warrior; the King of Kossô (Obá (Oba) Kòso), with joy'. It is a praise to the strength and authority of Xangô.
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.
