A Gentle Introduction to Eleguá, Osain, Obatalá, Yemayá, Oyá, Shangó, and Oshún

If you’ve recently found yourself drawn to African spiritual traditions—whether through curiosity, ancestry, or a deeper spiritual calling—you may have come across the word Orisha. But who exactly are the Orishas, and why are they so central in traditions like Santería, Candomblé, and others?

Let’s explore this sacred world together with warmth, curiosity, and beginner-friendly clarity.

What Are the Orishas?

The Orishas are divine forces from the Yoruba religion of West Africa—beings who represent nature, spiritual principles, human emotions, and cosmic forces. They are not gods in the Western sense, but rather powerful spiritual entities that connect us to the divine, to nature, and to our inner selves.

Through the transatlantic slave trade, Yoruba spirituality made its way to the Americas and evolved into forms such as:

• Santería (Cuba)
• Candomblé (Brazil)
• Vodou (Haiti, with distinct differences)
• And many other Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Latin traditions

Each Orisha has a unique energy, personality, color, symbol, and domain of influence—just like members of a spiritual family.

Meet a Few of the Orishas

Here’s a gentle, beginner-friendly introduction to some of the most beloved and widely known Orishas:

Eleguá – The Opener of Roads

Eleguá is the guardian of crossroads, doorways, and destiny. Known as the trickster and gatekeeper, no spiritual work can begin without acknowledging him. He teaches us that every choice opens a new path.

Colors: Red and black
Symbols: Keys, crossroads

Osain – The Master of Plants and Healing

Osain is the Orisha of herbs, roots, and the mystical power of the forest. He knows the healing and magical properties of every plant. He is called on for spiritual cleansing, healing, and herbal knowledge.

Colors: Green
Symbols: Herbs, gourds, forest tools

Obatalá – The Orisha of Wisdom and Clarity

Obatalá is the oldest of the Orishas and represents peace, purity, and wisdom. He is the creator of the human body and a symbol of calm leadership and divine justice.

Colors: White (sometimes silver)
Symbols: White cloth, doves, peace

Yemayá – The Great Mother of the Ocean

Yemayá is the Orisha of the seas and the mother of all life. She is nurturing, protective, and wise. Like the ocean, she can be calm or powerful. She holds the energy of motherhood and unconditional love.

Colors: Blue and white
Symbols: Shells, waves, fish

Oyá – The Orisha of Storms and Change

Oyá is the force of winds, transformation, and the cycles of life and death. She governs the cemetery gates and helps us move through grief, endings, and new beginnings. She is fiercely protective and deeply empowering.

Colors: Burgundy, purple, dark reds
Symbols: Wind, lightning, cemetery gates

Shangó – The Orisha of Thunder and Fire

Shangó is the warrior king of thunder, drumming, dance, and masculine fire. He represents passion, justice, and strength. Charismatic and proud, he reminds us to stand tall in our truth and power.

Colors: Red and white
Symbols: Double-headed axe, drums, lightning

Oshún – The Orisha of Love and Sweet Waters

Oshún rules over rivers, sensuality, beauty, fertility, and pleasure. She is sweetness, charm, and abundance. But beneath her softness lies deep wisdom and strength. She teaches us how to love, receive, and attract blessings.

Colors: Yellow and gold
Symbols: Mirrors, honey, rivers, peacocks

Why Do People Work with the Orishas?

For many, working with the Orishas is a path to self-knowledge, ancestral healing, and spiritual connection. People may be drawn to one Orisha in particular, or they may build relationships with several over time.

This isn’t about instant gratification—it’s about relationship. You get to know the Orishas slowly, through offerings, prayers, study, and practice. Many people also work with spiritual elders (santeros, babalawos, iyalorishas, etc.) for deeper guidance.

Starting Your Journey

If you feel called to learn more, trust that instinct. Start slow. Here are a few beginner steps:

• Read about the Orishas, their stories (patakís), and their meanings
• Listen to music, prayers, or songs from the tradition
• Respect the sacredness of these practices. This is a living tradition that holds deep meaning for millions of people across the world. 
• Seek guidance from legitimate elders or houses if you’re serious about initiation

The Orishas are not distant—they’re part of the world around you, part of nature, part of your spirit. You don’t need to rush. They will meet you where you are.

With love and light,
Elegantly yours,
The Elegant Orisha Team