Yoruba religion facts for kids

The Yoruba religion is a traditional faith that comes mainly from West Africa, especially Nigeria. It is the religion of the Yoruba people, who are a large ethnic group in West Africa. This religion has influenced many other religious groups around the world. Today, it is a minority religion, meaning fewer people follow it compared to other major religions.

A main idea in the Yoruba religion is that natural things like trees, rivers, stones, and even iron have a spiritual side. This means they believe spirits live within these natural objects.

Where is Yoruba Religion Practiced?

The Yoruba religion has had a big impact on people of African descent in places like Cuba. Many people in Cuba have ancestors who were Yoruba. You can also find some followers of this religion in other Caribbean islands and in the United States.

In Cuba, this religion is often called regla d'ocha. This name means 'the way of the spirits'. Another term you might hear is Santería. Santería is a bit broader and refers to how African spirits and Catholic saints have blended together. This blending is called "syncretism." Sometimes, people in countries like Cuba might become part of the Catholic church and also be initiated into the Yoruba religion, sometimes even on the same day!

Images for kids

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  A Yemoja devotee in Nigeria

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  An Egungun masquerade dance garment at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

See also

In Spanish: Religión yoruba para niños