Manigua WritingsAvatars

Paths of Esu/Eleggua

Avatars or Paths of Esu/ Eleggua Afra: Can be found at hospitals and clinics, helping Asojano get rid of illness; good protection against contagous disease. He doesnıt drink rum or gin like the other Elegguas, prefering red wine instead. Agguere: As his name suggests, he works and relates to the earth and soil; he resides in the forests, jungles, and all green areas. Akileyo: In Cuba he is considered a troublesome child, but one that brings great blessings. Alagbara, Legba, or Elegbara: The people of Ketu, Nigeria, kept throwing all their garbage away at the same spot; the trash pile grew until it became like a hill. One day they noticed it came to life; it was moving, breathing, and speaking. This was Elegbara, born out of his own food. He brings great blessings, especially in bussiness and money, and is great protection against all kinds of witchcraft. Alagggwana, Obanigwanna, or Laggwanna: said to be very powerful; resides in the forests, and hills. Some say she is Eshu-Biıs sister, and represents the ³Anima Sola,² or ³Lost Soul.² Among her attributes are chains and ³garabato de guayava² (staff made of guava branch); in Cuba they carve out a figure in cedar, which lives and eats next to Alaggwana.She is very close to the Eggungun ( spirits of the dead), and does a lot of work with Ogun. Alaroye, or Laroye: Always placed behind or close to the door, guarding the home. He likes to wander the streets a lot and is involved in money and trade transactions; he can atrract money or cause great losses. Alaroye is a great friend of Oshun, and works with her a lot. One time he came to her protection when Sango was trying to overpower and take advantage of her. Oshun yelled for Alaroye, and he came and stood between her and Sango, telling him to leave; the Orisa of lightning had to listen, and moved on. Laroye Biba-Kikeno, is a path of Laroye that works closely with Ifa, and letıs the Babalawo know who is coming to see him. Anaqui: Said to be the oldest and the head chief of all Esus, always distributing tasks and giving directions. Olofi gave him the responsanbility of openening and closing the doors to the cementaries; making him a powerful ally of the Eggungun. He is also considered the ³trust and security of Ifa.² Arere Obi-Oke: In Cuba he is said to be St. Anthony Awere: Known in Cuba as Santo Niño Mueve Corazones, the Saint Child Mover of Hearts. He works with Obatala, and moves the hearts of the world towards peace. Lives in the forests, and can be found in the hills and valleys. Helps to take away desperation, anxiety, stress, lack of motivation, and anger; doesnıt like fighting or people not respesting each other. He brings enemies together through understanding, helps to settle disputes, and brings back a stronger love to couples thatıve hurt each other; he bring peace Ayeru and Abanuke: These two along with Laroye Biba-Kikeno, are very close friends and messengers of Ifa and Babalawos. They all wear a metal arrow or crossbow on their head. Baraine: Works with Chango, and travel together often. Echerike: A great friend of Osain; works with this Orisa and his ewe(herbs). Elufe: Some say he is the oldest Esu. He is usually placed in the yard, outside the house, since nudity or anything indecent is not permited in the presence of this wise elder. Esu Alaketu: His name refers to the city of Ketu and Ala (Divine guidence). He works with Osun, and together they transformed the city of Ketu, near her shrine in Osogbo. This Esu can elevate what suffers from moral decay. Esu Alayiki: He always brings the unexpected surprises that cause changes. Considered to have a big appetite, even for Esu. One of his paths, Eleggua Bralayiki, is known as a ³fiestero y rumbero,² always up for celebrations and music; likes rum, sweets, and lots of good food. Provides great protection against betrayal, scams, and hipocracy. Esu Beleke, or Ibori: In Cuba he is also known as Saint ³Nino de Atocha.² He likes to have toys around like a playful child, and brings great blessings. Esu Bi: Resides on the street corners or crossroads. He can be a powerful ally, or a terrible threat. He plays painful tricks on those who deserve a lesson. He is usually given in a small sea-shell, which is carried around for protection. In Cube he is considered the guardian of the Jimaguas, or Ibejis. Esu Ile Oloya, or Kaloya: Wanders the plazas and markets, since he likes to be involved in purchases, trade, and all sorts of transactions; heıs very good for business. Esu Latieye: Said to be a great warrior, winning all battles over anyone and everyone; keeps oneıs enemies at bay. Esu Marimaye: Said to be a very old Esu; he is always treated with the respect shown for a wise elder. Esu Ogguanilebbe: Said to be an inseperable friend of Ogun. This Esu makes sure Ogun is kept well fed, sometimes causing accidents so Ogun can feed of the blood of itıs victims. Esu Oku Boro: A very powerful Esu; always present when life is born or taken away. Esu Opin: Known as The Divene Messenger of Boundaries. He is the guardian of sacred spaces, such as shrines and the Igbodu (sacred groves); keeps them charged with Ase. Esu Oro:Known as The Divine Mesenger of the Power of the Word. He is related with the ability and use of incantations; the tonal qualities that resonate with different forces of nature and Orisa. Kinkeye, Akoke Lebiyu, and Aganika: These Esus work with the law and police. They can help one avoid trouble with the law, or punish one through legal battles and prision. Agguo Bara, Ekileyo, Osu Kkugwo, Oko-Koye Biye, Agomello, and Baralayiki: These Elegguas are said to come from the city of Oyo, Nigeria. Ogguiri Elu, Keneno, and Afra: These Esus are from the Arara of Dahomey(present day Ghana). The only one we know anything about is Afra, who is a good friend of Agronica (Babalu-Aye), and are always working together. Akokoribiya and Osika: They are from the land of Mina; they are constantly smoking cigars, and play with tops and crystal balls.

Manigua Home Page | Contact Page

Copyright İ2002 Manigua.org and Charly Barbera
Site Design by nanoSmith.net