Ayao
Origin:
Yoruba
Classification:
Orisha
Ayao is the orisha of the whirlwind, Oya’s younger sister. Like her sister, Ayao is a powerful, fierce, smart spirit. They are venerated together. Beyond wind phenomenon, whirlwinds are emblems of witchcraft and magic power. Ayao’s ally is Osanyin, orisha of plants. She is a font of botanical and magical knowledge, learned directly from Osain, which she may be petitioned to share with devotees.
Attribute:
Crossbow
Realms: She lives in the forest and travels in the form of a whirlwind or cyclone.
Colors:
Brown, green (the colors of bark and leaves)
Animal: Snake
Number: 9 (shared with Oya)
See Also:
Osain; Oya
Source:
Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.
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