♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: SIMBI

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Simbi: Master Magician & Spirit of Fresh Waters

Simbi is a powerful and diverse family of Lwa served primarily in the Petwo rites. The name Simbi encompasses many manifestations, including Papa Simbi, Simbi Andezo, Simbi Anpaka, Simbi Anpola, Simbi Makaya, and others. Though each incarnation varies, Simbi is foremost a spirit of fresh water—springs, streams, and wells—and a consummate magician. He lends his power to many Houngan, Manbo, and Bokò, and is revered as a master of sorcery and spiritual communication.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Clay jar of water, dagger, small green snake (varies by incarnation and rite)

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Simbi” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: OGOU FERAY

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Ogou Feray: Wounded Warrior, Lover & Protector

Ogou Feray is a famous Lwa of the Nago nation, often served in both Rada and Petwo rites. He is the brother (or in some lineages, son) of Ogou Badagris and is revered as a great warrior—always injured, but never vanquished. Feray is the most revered of the Ogou spirits, known for his bravery, discipline, and imposing presence. He is also the passionate lover of Ezili Freda, and women are both his passion and his ruin.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Machete, iron pince

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Ogou Feray” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: OGOU BALENDJO

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Ogou Balendjo: Naval Healer, Protector & Elder of the Nago Nation

Ogou Balendjo is a Lwa of the Nago nation, also served in the Rada rites. He is a great healer and considered a “wet Ogou,” second in command to Osanj of Agwe’s navy. Ogou Balendjo is an elder man, well past middle age, known for his mild and amiable nature. He grants resistance to poisons and protects travelers—especially those journeying by sea. Unlike other Ogou spirits, he does not grant fame or power, but offers quiet strength and healing.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Triangle and signaling flags

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Ogou Balendjo” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: OGOU BADAGRIS

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Ogou Badagris: Military General of Valor, Fire & Protection

Ogou Badagris is a powerful Lwa of the Nago nation and a general in the armies of Ogou. He is the child of Batala and the spiritual husband of Ezili Freda. Ogou Badagris is known for his boastful, vain, and recalcitrant nature, yet he is deeply protective of his devotees. His presence is commanding and fiery, and he is served with great respect in Petwo rites.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Sabre, cutlass, machete

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Ogou Badagris” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: OGOU SHANGO

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Ogou Shango: Warrior Magician of Fire, Discipline & Power

Ogou Shango is usually served during Petwo rites as a great magician and warrior spirit. Known for his stern discipline and fiery nature, Ogou Shango is a hermaphroditic mystery who can be very cruel. He resides in Les Cayes, Haiti, and is revered for smoothing difficulties, offering protection, and bringing luck to his devotees. His presence is commanding, and his possessions are marked by intense dancing and elemental fire.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Iron pince (clamp, pincers)

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Ogou Shango” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: SEN JAK MAJE

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Sen Jak Maje: Warrior of Dignity, Valor & Protection

Sen Jak Maje is the Catholic Saint James, called Santiago by the Spanish and served in Haitian Vodou. He is a figure of great dignity, valor, and spiritual strength. Sen Jak is revered for his ability to remove obstacles and protect his devotees. His presence is noble, handsome, and pious—embodying the warrior spirit of divine justice.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Sabre or cutlass

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Sen Jak Maje” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: MARASA

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Marasa: Divine Twins & First Manifestation of the Soul

Marasa represent the divine twins—male and female—the first issue of God and the first manifestation of the soul. They are also child spirits, representing spiritual twins, both living and defunct. Marasa are served in every nation and across rites in different manners, and their presence is foundational in Haitian Vodou.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Twin or triple bowl set made of clay, wood, or porcelain depending on rite and nation

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Marasa” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: LOKO

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Loko: First Priest, Temple Guardian & Master of Medicinal Wisdom

Loko is one of the oldest and most powerful mysteries in Haitian Vodou. He is the first priest—the Houngan of the temple—and in ason lineages, he is revered as the “father of all Houngan and Manbo.” Loko is the one who grants the rights to the sacred rattle, the ason, and serves as the Minister of Religion and Public Health. He is also credited with teaching the cultivation of the yam and is the spiritual husband of Manbo Ayizan.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

“Blooming” rod or staff, ripe banana, sacred rattle (ason)

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Loko” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: PAPA LEGBA

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Papa Legba: Guardian of the Gate & Messenger of the Spirits

Papa Legba is the guardian of doorways and the gate between worlds. He is the messenger of the spirits and the one who grants passage and communication between the world of the living and Ginea. Papa Legba is always the first Lwa served in any Vodou ceremony, as no spirit can be reached without his permission.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Crutch or cane, road or highway, the center post (poto mitan)

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Papa Legba” →

♥ MEET THE LWA SERIES AT ERZULIE’S VOODOO – VODOU LWA: LASIREN

♥ PRACTITIONER-LED INSIGHTS INTO THE SPIRITS OF HAITIAN VODOU!

Welcome to our Meet the Lwa series. Each page offers a brief overview of the Lwa’s origins, attributes, and ceremonial roles—designed for spiritual students, researchers, and practitioners seeking clarity and context.

These teachings were passed down to me by my elder Mambos, spiritual godparents, and our beloved Hougan Aboudja, in collaboration with Hougan Jour Mwen Lonje, whose lifelong service and deep initiatory knowledge continue to guide our work.

As the founder and Vodou practitioner of Erzulie’s Voodoo New Orleans, I created this archive to share the foundational aspects of each spirit with respect, accuracy (from our Vodou house’s perspective), and spiritual devotion. Every detail—from Veve symbols to ritual offerings—has been curated to reflect the integrity of our tradition and the legacy of those who came before us.

♥ Lasiren: Water Spirit of Power, Beauty, Cleansing & Prophecy

Lasiren is the mystery of both fresh and salt waters. In the Rada rite, she is known as Manbo Lasiren and Lasiren-Labalen; in the Nago rite, she is Metres Dayila. She is the principal wife of Agwe and appears as a classic mermaid with two faces—one white and one Black. She is the wife of Agwe, the sister of Ezili Freda and Klèmezin Klèmey, and is considered the water version of Erzulie Freda in many Vodou houses.

Lasiren is known to abduct young men and boys from riverbanks, taking them beneath the waters for three or seven years. During this time, she initiates them as prophets and priests of great power. She is unsparing, polite, and dignified. She loves men and welcomes their adoration. Those possessed by Lasiren move as if swimming and must be kept wet throughout the possession.

♥ Symbols & Attributes

Silver comb and mirror

Continue reading “Vodou Lwa Manbo LaSiren” →