Da In African mythology (Fon of Benin), serpent god, who symbolizes life and movement. Dako, chief of the Fon nation, murdered a sovereign prince who was on a friendly visit in honor of one of his festivals. This was a violation of the sacred law of hospitality. He then attacked Da, the king of Abomey, laid siege to his capital, and put Da to death by cutting open his belly. He then placed Da’s body at the foundation of the palace he built in Abomey, which he called Dahomey. The word derives from Da, the unfortunate victim, and Homy, his belly—that is, a house built on Da’s belly.

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Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow
Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante