Belié Belcan is among the most popular of the lwa from the Dominican Republic. He wanders the night, armed with a blade and heavy iron chain, looking for malefactors so that he can put them right. Belié is an ancient guardian spirit invoked for protection. He presides over the making of protective amulets and talismans (resguardos; similar talismans are associated with Shango).
Haitian Vodou identifies Belié Belcan with Ogun (specifically Ogou Shango). In Dominican Vodo tradition, Belié Belcan is syncretized to Michael Archangel. Rituals and spells associated with Michael (or that incorporate Michael’s name) may be addressed to Belié or performed with Belié in mind.
ALSO KNOWN AS:
Bellier Belcan or Bercan
CLASSIFICATION:
Lwa
Feast:
29 September (feast of Michael Archangel)
MANIFESTATION:
A small elderly man with a limp; don’t be fooled by his deceptively frail appearance. He is a spiritually and physically powerful spirit.
ICONOGRAPHY:
Images of Michael Archangel are used to represent Belié.
ATTRIBUTE:
Machete; dagger; sharp knife; large, heavy chain with which to clobber enemies before he chains them up
Consort:
Anaisa Pyé (traditionally venerated together, they will share an altar)
Spirit ally:
Candelo
COLOURS:
Red, green
Elements:
Air, fire
OFFERINGS:
Rum, cigars, cigarettes
SEE ALSO:
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.