Oshumare is a rainbow serpent originally from Benin (Dahomey), now also venerated in African Diaspora traditions. Oshumare may be part of an ancient triad including Nana Buruku and Babalu Ayé. The three are still venerated together in Bahia, Brazil. Oshumare has dominion over cycles and seasons, like rain versus drought and poverty versus wealth. Oshumare is the orisha of the rainbow and the guardian of children.
Oshumare is invoked to win the lottery and prizes.
ALSO KNOWN AS:
Ochumare; Oxumare; Oxum Maré
FAVOURED PEOPLE:
Children; artists; those for whom beauty and aesthetics are a primary concern; gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people
ATTRIBUTE:
Cowrie shells
Emblem:
Rainbow
DAY:
Tuesday
COLOURS:
Green, pink, yellow
ALTAR:
Decorate with snakes crafted from iron or other metals.
OFFERINGS:
Oshumare’s favourite food is boiled white corn with shredded coconut.
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.
