Candomblé facts for kids
Candomblé is an African-inspired or Afro-Brazilian religion, practiced chiefly in Brazil. The religion originated in the city of Salvador, the capital of Bahia.
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What is Candomblé?
Candomblé is a religion that started in Brazil. It mixes beliefs from West Africa with some parts of Christianity. It is mainly practiced in Brazil, especially in the state of Bahia. This religion is a big part of Brazilian culture.
How Candomblé Began
Candomblé was created by enslaved people from Africa. They were brought to Brazil many centuries ago. To keep their traditions alive, they secretly practiced their African religions. They often linked their gods to Catholic saints. This helped them hide their practices from their enslavers. Over time, these traditions blended and became Candomblé.
Who Do Candomblé Followers Worship?
Followers of Candomblé worship spirits called Orixás (pronounced "oh-ree-SHAS"). Orixás are powerful spirits. They are linked to nature, like rivers, forests, and the sea. Each Orixá has its own personality and powers. They also have special colors, foods, and music.
Important Orixás
There are many Orixás in Candomblé. Some of the most well-known include:
- Iemanjá: She is the Orixá of the sea and motherhood. People often make offerings to her in the ocean.
- Xangô: He is the Orixá of justice, thunder, and fire. He is known for his strength and fairness.
- Oxóssi: This Orixá is the hunter and protector of the forests. He brings abundance and food.
- Ogum: He is the Orixá of war, iron, and technology. Ogum helps people overcome challenges.
- Oxum: She is the Orixá of beauty, love, and fresh water. Oxum brings wealth and happiness.
How Candomblé is Practiced
Candomblé ceremonies happen in special temples called terreiros. These ceremonies are very lively and involve music, dance, and singing. People wear colorful clothes. The goal is to invite the Orixás to join the celebration.
Ceremonies and Rituals
During ceremonies, drummers play special rhythms. These rhythms are meant to call specific Orixás. Dancers move in ways that honor the Orixás. Sometimes, a worshipper might become "possessed" by an Orixá. This means the Orixá's spirit enters their body. The person then acts like the Orixá. This is a very sacred moment for followers.
Offerings and Community
Followers often give offerings to the Orixás. These can be special foods, flowers, or other items. These gifts show respect and thanks. Candomblé is also about community. Terreiros are important gathering places. They offer support and a sense of belonging to their members. The religion helps keep African traditions and history alive in Brazil.
Images for kids
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A practitioner dressed as the orixá Oba at a temple in Brazil; the possession of adherents by orixá is central to Candomblé
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A statue depicting the orixá Xangô inside a Candomblé terreiro in São Paulo; he is distinguished by his possession of a double-headed axe, the oxê
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A statuette of the orixá Iemanjá in Brazil
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A statue inside a Candomblé terreiro in São Paulo; it depicts a Native American spirit, a caboclo
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Practitioners of Candomblé in 2018
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The interior of the Axé Ilê Obá terreiro in São Paulo, Brazil
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Practitioners inside the Terreiro Matamba Tombenci Neto in Ilhéus, Bahia.
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The otás, sacred stones that are central to Candomblé altars
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A Candomblé altar at the Ilê Axé Ibalecy in Salvador, Bahia
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An initiation conducted in Bahia in 2008; the white clothes and white spots are worn at this ceremony
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A Candomblé ceremony on Itaparica Island in Bahia
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On her festival day in February, offerings to Yemanja are placed on boats and taken out to be cast into the water.
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Altar at the Terreiro de Candomblé in Jiribatuba, Vera Cruz
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A group of practitioners photographed in 1902
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A gathering of practitioners at the Terreiro de São Gonçalo do Retiro in Salvador in 2010
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See also
In Spanish: Candomblé para niños
