A vèvè or symbol is used to represent a loa (spirit) in Haiti and other African diaspora traditions. However, this type of symbology is by no means unique to Africa or the African diaspora. Though Haitian Vodou vèvès are probably among the widest known among all traditional spiritual practices. But today, not many people know … Continue reading What is a Vodou Vèvè?
Haitian Vodou is an ancient religious tradition that has been passed down for generations. It is a spiritual practice that combines elements of African, Catholic, and Native American beliefs and practices. This religion has had a profound influence on the culture of Haiti, from its music to its art and literature. Vodou gods, or loa, … Continue reading Vodou – A Way of Being | Exiled Minds Podcast Interview
Baron Samdi is often a misunderstood and misrepresented loa within the Haitian Vodou tradition. He is sometimes confused with other prominent loa and likewise connected to death in a negative way. However, Baron Samdi is revered in Haitian culture because of his position as gatekeeper of the ancestral realm. In this episode, we discuss this … Continue reading Baron Samdi: Gatekeeper of the Ancestors
Many myths surround Vodou and other African spiritual systems practiced throughout the world. These traditions are often relegated to the status of black magic and demonized in senseless and detrimental ways. In this episode, Ritchy Thermidor and I discuss the origin and essence of such myths. We likewise shed truth on the reality of these … Continue reading Debunking Myths About Vodou
Ezili Freda is one of the most popular loas venerated in the Haitian Vodou pantheon. This deity is known for bestowing wealth, love, and all of life’s pleasures upon her devotees. Contrarily there are a number of myths surrounding the nature of this deity that can be disturbing to some. In this episode, we discuss … Continue reading Erzulie Freda: The Loa of Prosperity
In this live Wisdom talk, I discuss why you should never practice Vodou. If you are interested in experimenting with this religion, you must listen to this episode. Throughout this live podcast, Vodou practitioner Ritchy Thermidor and I discuss why newcomers should be wary of this spiritual practice. Some of the reasons may not be … Continue reading Reasons to Never Practice Vodou
Ezili Danto or Dantor is part of the Ezili (Erzulie) family of loa in Haitian Vodou. She can be fierce, aggressive, temperamental, and hard to deal with at times. Though, she is also a very nurturing loa as Erzulie Dantor is the protector of children, abused and scorned women, and prostitutes. Due to her role … Continue reading Ezili Dantor: Patroness of the Haitian Revolution
In this episode, Haitian native Ritchy Thermidor discusses his journey into the tradition of his ancestors. He explains the reasons he chose to explore and embrace Haitian Vodou and how it has impacted his life. Also, Ritchy expounds upon the rewards and challenges he has faced along the way. He concludes by presenting helpful tips … Continue reading A Journey into Haitian Vodou