Seven African Powers
The specific orishas who are most involved in human everyday matters may be invoked together as a group known as the Seven African Powers. By petitioning these orishas en masse rather than individually, one is assured that all bases are covered. The Seven African Powers provide all Earth’s potential blessings and protections.
1. Eshu Elegbara (a.k.a. Elegba, Ellegua, Legba)
2. Ogun
3. Obatala
4. Yemaya
5. Oshun
6. Shango
7. Orunmila, Oya, or Ochossi
Because the magic number seven cannot be changed, a new orisha cannot be added unless another is removed. Orunmila is the traditional seventh African Power but over the years he has become less popular than Oya and Ochossi. Either of the two is now frequently substituted for him.
ORIGIN:
Yoruba
ICONOGRAPHY:
Commercially produced Seven African Powers products (incense, candles, soap, and so forth) frequently depict them in the guise of the Catholic saints to which they are syncretized.
SEE ALSO:
- Eight Immortals
- Shichi Fukujin
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.