Santeria: The Religion offers a comprehensive exploration of a vibrant spiritual practice that emerged from the rich cultural tapestry of the Yoruba people. Brought to the shores of Cuba through the transatlantic slave trade, the Yoruba ingeniously preserved their ancestral beliefs by intertwining them with Catholicism, resulting in Santeria—a religion that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit. With an estimated five million practitioners in the United States alone, Santeria is rapidly gaining recognition and understanding.
Authored by Migene Gonzalez-Wippler, a knowledgeable anthropologist with personal experience as an initiate, this book unveils the intricacies of Santeria with a compelling blend of scholarly insight and personal narrative. Readers will be captivated by the detailed presentation of the orishas, the deities that embody the religion's essence, and learn how to engage with these powerful figures. The profiles of santeros, the devoted priests guiding the faith, provide a glimpse into their significant roles, including initiation practices that encapsulate the path to priesthood.
Delving into the mystical aspects of Santeria, the book explains the use of diloggœn shells in divination, offering readers a profound understanding of consultation with the divine. Additionally, the text highlights the significance of ewe, or herbal magic, detailing the healing properties of potions that connect practitioners to their roots.
Enhanced by over 65 striking photographs, Santeria: The Religion invites readers into the heart of Santeria ceremonies and rites—some of which challenge conventional perspectives. Through revealing interviews with practitioners, Gonzalez-Wippler strives to demystify and clarify misconceptions surrounding this extraordinary spiritual practice, fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for a tradition that is as enchanting as it is enduring.
Authored by Migene Gonzalez-Wippler, a knowledgeable anthropologist with personal experience as an initiate, this book unveils the intricacies of Santeria with a compelling blend of scholarly insight and personal narrative. Readers will be captivated by the detailed presentation of the orishas, the deities that embody the religion's essence, and learn how to engage with these powerful figures. The profiles of santeros, the devoted priests guiding the faith, provide a glimpse into their significant roles, including initiation practices that encapsulate the path to priesthood.
Delving into the mystical aspects of Santeria, the book explains the use of diloggœn shells in divination, offering readers a profound understanding of consultation with the divine. Additionally, the text highlights the significance of ewe, or herbal magic, detailing the healing properties of potions that connect practitioners to their roots.
Enhanced by over 65 striking photographs, Santeria: The Religion invites readers into the heart of Santeria ceremonies and rites—some of which challenge conventional perspectives. Through revealing interviews with practitioners, Gonzalez-Wippler strives to demystify and clarify misconceptions surrounding this extraordinary spiritual practice, fostering a deeper appreciation and respect for a tradition that is as enchanting as it is enduring.
