A chant of Xangô, the orixá (orisha) of justice and thunder. Listen to the video above and follow the lyrics.
Oba sá rewa
E o jejé
Koto koto awo de se
Oba sá rewa
The lyrics and meaning
The spelling is phonetic. Oba means 'king' and rewa means 'beautiful' (the chant praises Xangô as the beautiful king (Oba ša rewa, 'the king who is beautiful')). It is a chant of exaltation to the royalty and the majesty of the lord of Oyó.
Who is Xangô
Xangô is the orixá 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 (Oba)) of Oyó, lord of justice and thunder.
