Ogun facts for kids
Quick facts for kids ÒgúnÒgún Lákáayé |
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| Warriors, soldiers, blacksmiths, metal workers, craftsmen | |
Veve of Ogoun
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| Other names | Oggun, Ogou, Ògún or Ogúm |
| Venerated in | Yoruba religion, Edo religion, Dahomey mythology, Vodun, Santería, Umbanda, Candomblé, Haitian Vodou, Louisiana Voodoo, Folk Catholicism |
| Region | Nigeria, Benin, Latin America, Haiti |
| Ethnic group | Yoruba people, Edo people, Fon people |
Ogun (pronounced Oh-goon) is a powerful spirit or Orisha found in several African religions. He is often known as the 'God of Iron'. Ogun is important in religions like Voodoo and Yoruba religion.
Contents
Who is Ogun?
Ogun is a strong spirit linked to metalwork. He is also known as the spirit of war. Many people who work with metal, like blacksmiths and craftspeople, see him as their special protector.
People believe Ogun was sent to Earth to make it a better place. His main symbol is iron. This shows his connection to tools, weapons, and all things made of metal.
What are Ogun's Characteristics?
Ogun has several special traits and symbols:
- Consecrated day: Wednesday is a special day for Ogun.
- Metal: His main metal is iron.
- Element: He is connected to the earth.
- Colors: Red, black, and marine blue are his colors.
- Personality: He is often seen as strong, hardworking, and sometimes a bit serious.
- Symbols: His symbols include a sword and an iron chain.
Ogun in Stories and Culture
Ogun appears in many stories and works of art. He is an important figure in different cultures.
Ogun in Literature
- In Brazil, a famous writer named Jorge Amado wrote about Ogun. His story "O compadre de Ogum" is part of the novel Shepherds of the Night (1964). In this story, Ogun plays a key role. He even helps to baptize a child.
Ogun in Music
- Traditional Voodoo songs are often sung for Ogun. Michel S. Laguerre recorded and translated some of these songs into English. These songs help people connect with Ogun's spirit.
Images for kids
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Statue of Ogun, Sacred Grove Of Oshun, Osogbo, Nigeria
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Candomblé altar to Ogun, Brazil
See also
- In Spanish: Oggun para niños
