Oxossi is a deity of African religions, also known as orixá, who represents knowledge and forests.
Usually, it is represented by the figure of a man who holds a bow and arrow in his hands, considered a kind of guardian and Hunter.
For African religions such as Umbanda and Candomblé, Oxossi is linked to knowledge and nature. He always extols all that it can provide, according to human need.
For this reason, he is also known as the orixá of hunting, plenty and sustenance.
In ancient Africa, Oxossi was considered the guardian of hunters, responsible for bringing livelihood to the tribe.
Currently, it protects everyone who leaves home for work every day, as it is from this effort that the families' livelihood comes.
Some of main features of Oxossi they are:
- It's expander;
- The elements are the vegetable and the water;
- Polarity is Obá;
- Colors: green, dark blue and magenta;
- The symbols are bow and arrow (Opha) and an Oxtail (Eruexim);
- The greetings are: Okê Oxóssi and Okê Arô.
Oxóssi is also considered an orixá of contemplation, a lover of arts and beautiful things, and is also an axé hunter.
In other words, he is an orixá who seeks good influences and positive energy for an ilé, a space where public parties are held in Candomblé.
Those considered "sons of Oxossi", according to their religion, are endowed with some characteristics that define their behavior and refer to the orixá.
According to the interpretation of this belief, the children of Oxossi are very pleasant, cheerful and communicative, in addition to being great company.
See more about the Axe.
History of Oxossi
In the history of the African gods, Oxóssi is the son of Oxalá and Yemanjá, and his name comes from the Yoruba, a specifically African language, which means “popular guardian”.
He is considered the king of Ketu, as he freed the population of one of Eleyé's birds (birds who have evil spirits). Thus, he broke a spell he cast on those people.
According to legend, Oxossi does not need more than an arrow to hit his target and for this reason he is also called Otokan Soso.
See more about hopefully and Yemanja.
Oxossi and syncretism in the Catholic Church
In the traditions of the Catholic Church, the orixá Oxóssi is syncretized with São Sebastião, being honored on January 20th.
However, in the state of Bahia, he is also syncretized with São Jorge, Santo recognized for his strength and determination, and for facing everything that comes his way.
See too:
- Definition of Candomblé
- Definition of Umbanda
- All about Umbanda
- Who is Ogun
- Who is I hope?
- Oxum
- Shango
