Slaves that came to Cuba brought their religious beliefs and rituals. Over time, these beliers transformed into the religion known as Santeria. Santeria features a pantheon of deities known as Orisha, each with unique characteristics and rituals. For example, the Orisha Chango embodies fire and is associated with drumming. The customs of Chango in Oyo, Nigeria heavily influenced the religious practices that endured in Cuba. When thunderstorms occur, we pray to Chango and address him as “your majesty” with the word “kabiyesi.” We praise Chango for what he has already done for us, and also ask for protection and justice. This article is about praying to Chango, Chango Santeria Oracion.
Shango Orisha. What are Shango’s powers? What weapon does Chango use?
Chango, also known as Shango, is one of the most prominent and revered Orishas. We know Chango for his strength and his role as the fourth king of Oyo, Nigeria. He wields a double-headed axe (known as an “oshe”) that embodies masculinity and justice. He is closely associated with dancing and music. Slave masters of 19th century Cuba had their slaves baptized in Catholicism and surrounded by Catholic iconography. The slaves in Cuba linked the Orishas to Catholic Saints according to their shared traits. Shango is often associated with Santa Barbara, and it is customary in Cuba to venerate and pray to Shango on December 4th, Saint Barbara’s feast day. We pray to Shango in matters related to business, money, and debts. This is when we pray to Chango, Santeria Oracion
Chango is an Orisha who embodies masculinity. He possesses his children and dances while pulling lightning bolts from the sky towards his penis. In Cuba, they syncretized Chango with the Catholic Saint Santa Barbara because they both wear red and white, both wear a crown, and stories of both speak of lighting. Chango is an Orisha that you can pray to for virility. Ideally, you would approach your God parent’s Chango in his wooden container called a batea. We may have brought offerings of cornmeal porridge with stewed okra that we place on the floor. We then take his maraca, kneel, bow our heads, and pray to Chango.
Are Ogun and Shango the same?
Shango and Ogun share some similarities, but they differ from each other. They are both warrior Orishas. Ogun’s association is with technology and warfare, especially with the use of iron. Ogun wields a machete as one of his sacred tools, which can serve both to clear a path and cause destruction. Shango also brings about change, but in a gentler way, using a double-headed axe. Ogun dwells in the forest. Conversely, Shango’s domain is in the palace, or dancing at drumming ceremonies. Shango is the Orisha of masculinity and the joys of life. But Shango also is the Orisha that brings justice in religious and other aspects of life.
Chango and Ogun are two legendary warrior Orishas. In one pataki, they fought each other and drew the attention of Obatala, the father of all Orisha. Upon seeing Chango’s lightning in the sky, Obatala summoned him to explain the fight. Chango said that Ogun had caused harm to his mother and wife, and Obatala sympathized with his pain. But Obatala advised Chango to exercise restraint and channel his ashe (spiritual power) towards positive endeavors, not destructive ones.
To help Chango in his quest for justice, Obatala presented him with a bag of white beads. These beads symbolized the calming and rational presence of Obatala, and they helped Chango seek a fair and just resolution to his conflict with Ogun. Chango serves as the embodiment of righteous justice, emanating from the hands of Olodumare, the supreme deity. In times of turmoil and temptation to seek revenge, we may pray to Chango, who offers protection and ensures longevity. Change helps us avoid the dangers of vengeance. Lighting a candle and invoking Chango is a way to summon his intercession during times of stress and struggle.
Chango prayer for justice, protection, spells. Chango Santeria Oracion
When we pray to Chango, we can ask for justice to prevail. Chango gives us the strength to choose which battles to fight. Sometimes, we need Chango to help us in our struggle, and he shields us with his presence. Chango empowers us with the strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. His divine energy instills in us the courage to succeed under his protection. In certain cases, the most potent “spells” entail letting go and trusting in Chango’s ability to keep us safe.
Many people go through a time in their life when they experience explosive anger. This can be devastating if the person is also powerful. Often, these people are told in a reading to give something to Chango so that he can work for them. When praying for justice or protection, give an offering of something to Chango. You may not have the means to offer anything except a genuine plea. Trust that Chango is strong enough to give you strength as well. Find a quiet place and find a connection with Chango. Remember, if you are the offender in the troubles you are having, justice may not be the best thing to ask for! Chango delivers the justice that is the will of Olodumare! If you are in economic tribulations and need help, Chango can also help with prosperity. Sometimes, he gives us the strength to find success when opportunity strikes.