Mar 26 / The Orishas

 

Unit: Afro-Cuban

Theme: Santeria

 

I

Introduction

 Today's class is about the specific circumstances in which Santeria harvests possession.


 II

Learning Objectives

 

  • Understand the meaning of possession in the Afro-Cuban context
  •  Explain the importance of the Yoruba pantheon
  • Gain an awareness of the stories that accompany the orishas
  • Pay attention to the role of possession in the religious life of santeros
  • Reflect on the work done in class


III

Main Lesson

 1

Read the Article



 

 Santeria: The Beliefs and Rituals of a Growing Religion in America

 https://www.google.com/books/edition/Santeria/sv-AEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Crossed+Spiritualism+in+Cuba&printsec=frontcover

Read: The Orishas 

(Page 45 - 51) 

De la Torre, Miguel A. (2004).  Santeria: The Beliefs and Rituals of a Growing Religion in America. Wm B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.

"Possession of the priest by the orisha" (Page 51)
 
2
 
Notes
 
When possession by the orishas takes place, an intimate relationship is created between the gods and their followers, one in which communication occurs both ways. The orishas serve in this way as "guardian angels" to human beings. (Page 45)

 Possession can sometimes become violent, endangering the person being ridden by the orisha. When this occurs, other members of the ile attempt to restore calm by blowing into the eyes and ears of the possessed individual. (Page 115)

Possession creates a sacred space where the devotees are given the opportunity to express their hostility toward their oppressors. Through possession, the discharge of repressed feelings is allowed.

 

IV

A Note to Remember

"Santeria claims that human beings are children of loving orishas."

 

V

Case Studies

 

 

 


 

VI

Activity

Reflect of the case studies above and add your ideas about possession as a last thought.


VII

Journaling

 

VIII

Glossary

 

IX

Sources




 

X

Students' Work

 

 

 


 

 



 

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