Changó

Mythology and history

Yoruba legend recounts that Changó was the fourth alaafin (king) of the city of Oyó in present-day Nigeria — a real historical figure later deified for his exceptional power and tragic ending. According to myth, he experimented with a magical technique that produced a great storm; the lightning hit his own palace and killed many of his loved ones. Changó, in shame and pain, hanged himself. But — said the surviving followers — he did not die: he "did not hang" (in Yoruba oba ko so) — he ascended to the heavens and became Orixá.

Changó embodies the passionate masculine: warrior, dancer, lover of women, king of justice but also tragic. He is the rectifier god of injustices through divine fire (lightning); but also lover of celebration, music, dance, women. His simultaneous wives in the myth: Oyá (warrior queen of storms), Oxum (goddess of fresh waters and love), Obá (goddess of marital fidelity). Each one represents a complementary aspect of feminine that he loves.

Symbolism and worship

Symbols: double axe (his oxé, weapon and emblem), red and white colours (his ritual liturgical colours), thunder and lightning, ram (sacred animal), palm tree. Sacred number: 6. His ritual dance: virile, energetic, with axe in hand simulating warrior beats. His altar: characterised by red and white objects, doubles axes, rams.

Catholic syncretism in Cuba and Brazil: Saint Barbara — Christian martyr saint of the 3rd century AD, associated with thunder and lightning by the legend that her impious father who decapitated her was struck by lightning immediately afterwards. The Catholic association with thunder allowed Yoruba devotees to publicly venerate Changó as Saint Barbara during periods of religious persecution. December 4 (festivity of Saint Barbara) continues to be major day of celebration of Changó in Cuba.

Changó is invoked for: 1) Justice against grave injustices suffered. 2) Sustained virility (sexual and vital power). 3) Warrior strength for difficult life challenges. 4) Healing of wounded virility. 5) Joyful celebrations — Changó loves music, dance, conscious enjoyment.