ANCIENT GODDESS OF NIGERIA

OSHUN

Goddess Oshun is a revered deity in the Yoruba religion, which originated in Nigeria. She is known as the goddess of love, beauty, fertility, and prosperity. Oshun is also associated with the rivers and is often depicted as a beautiful woman adorned with gold jewelry and flowing white garments.

In Yoruba mythology, Oshun is the daughter of the god of creation, Olodumare, and the sister of other prominent deities such as Shango, Yemoja, and Ogun. She is said to have played a key role in the creation of the world and the introduction of civilization to humans.

Oshun is often associated with the sweet, flowing waters of the rivers, and is considered to be the guardian of the Osun River in Nigeria. She is believed to possess healing powers, and her devotees often make offerings to her in hopes of receiving blessings and good fortune. Oshun is also said to have the ability to grant fertility and help with childbirth.

In the Yoruba religion, Oshun is celebrated during the annual Osun-Osogbo festival, which takes place in August in Osogbo, Nigeria. During the festival, her devotees dress in white and carry offerings of fruit, flowers, and other gifts to the Osun River.

In addition to her presence in the Yoruba religion, Oshun has also been embraced by practitioners of other spiritual traditions, including Santeria and Brazilian Candomble. Her influence can also be seen in popular culture, with references to Oshun appearing in music, art, and fashion.

EZILI THE GODDESS OF LOVE

EZILI

EZILI

Ezili, also known as Ezili Dantor, is a prominent deity in Haitian Vodou, a syncretic religion that combines West African and Catholic beliefs. She is often depicted as a fierce and protective mother figure, and is associated with love, fertility, motherhood, and the defense of women and children.

In Haitian Vodou, Ezili is one of the Lwa, or spirits, who are believed to intervene in the lives of humans and offer guidance and protection. She is often invoked by women seeking help with issues related to love, fertility, and maternal health. Ezili is also associated with the color red and is often depicted holding a child or a machete, a symbol of her warrior spirit.

Ezili Dantor is believed to have originated in Dahomey (present-day Benin) and was brought to Haiti through the transatlantic slave trade. In Haiti, she has become an important figure in the struggle for freedom and independence, and is often associated with the Haitian Revolution of 1791-1804.

During the revolution, Ezili was invoked by Haitian rebels as a symbol of resistance and empowerment. She was seen as a protector of women and children, and her fierce spirit was said to have inspired the Haitian people to rise up against their oppressors. In Haitian Vodou, Ezili Dantor is still revered as a symbol of strength and resilience, and is often called upon by those who are fighting for justice and freedom.

Ezili is also associated with the arts, particularly dance and music. In Haitian Vodou, she is often invoked during ceremonies and celebrations, where she is believed to bring joy and inspiration to those who honor her. Her influence can also be seen in Haitian art, literature, and music, where she is often portrayed as a symbol of Haitian identity and resistance.