Umbanda Facts for Kids

Umbanda is a special religion that was born in Brazil! It's the only religion that started completely in Brazil. Umbanda mixes ideas from different beliefs, like Candomblé (an Afro-Brazilian religion) and Kardecism (a type of Spiritism).

This unique religion began on November 15, 1908. It started in a city called Niterói, which is in the state of Rio de Janeiro. A man named Zélio de Morais helped create Umbanda, guided by a spirit known as Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas.

What is Umbanda?
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What is Umbanda?

Umbanda is a religion that believes in one main God, often called Olodumare or Olorum. They also believe in many spirits who work as messengers for God. These spirits help people on Earth. Umbanda teaches that everyone should do good deeds and help others. It focuses on charity, love, and respect for all living things.

How Did Umbanda Start?

Umbanda began with a young man named Zélio de Morais. When he was 17, he started having strange experiences. He felt like he was being controlled by spirits. Doctors couldn't explain what was happening. So, his family took him to a Spiritist center.

At the center, Zélio spoke with a spirit who introduced himself as Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas. This spirit announced that a new religion would be born. This new religion would be called Umbanda. It would welcome everyone, no matter their background.

What Do Umbandistas Believe?

Umbanda has several important beliefs:

One God: Umbandistas believe in a single, supreme God.
Spirits: They believe in many spirits who are like guides. These spirits help people with their problems and give advice.
Reincarnation: Umbanda teaches that souls are reborn into new bodies. This helps souls learn and grow over many lifetimes.
Karma: This is the idea that good actions bring good results, and bad actions bring bad results. It's about what you give out comes back to you.
Charity: Helping others is very important in Umbanda. Many Umbanda centers offer free help and support to their communities.

Important Spirits in Umbanda

Umbanda has different types of spirits who help people. Each type of spirit has its own wisdom and way of helping.

Pretos-Velhos: These spirits are like wise old elders. They often appear as old enslaved people. They give calm advice and comfort. They teach patience and humility.
Caboclos: These spirits are strong and brave. They often appear as Indigenous people or warriors. They help with strength, protection, and clearing paths.
Exus and Pombagiras: These spirits are guardians of the crossroads. They help with protection and solving problems. They are often misunderstood but are important for balance.

How Do Umbandistas Practice Their Faith?

Umbanda services usually happen in a place called a terreiro or centro. During a service, people sing, pray, and play drums. Some people may become mediums, which means they allow spirits to communicate through them. This is how spirits give advice and blessings.

The services are often very lively and welcoming. People come to seek guidance, healing, or simply to connect with their faith. Umbanda is a religion that values community and helping each other.