Santeria什麼意思

Santería is a religion that originated in West Africa and was brought to the Caribbean and Latin America by enslaved Africans. It is a syncretic religion, meaning it blends elements of African traditional religions with Catholicism, the dominant religion in the regions where it was introduced.

Santería, also known as Regla de Ocha or Lucumí, is practiced predominantly in Cuba, but it has spread to other parts of the world, especially in the United States, where it has gained a significant following. The word "Santería" comes from the Spanish word "santo," meaning saint, because the religion uses Catholic saints as a front for the worship of the Orishas, the deities of the West African Yoruba religion.

The central practice of Santería is the worship of the Orishas, who are believed to be divine forces or spirits that govern various aspects of life. Each Orisha has its own unique personality, attributes, and symbols, and followers of Santería may have a personal relationship with one or more of these deities.

Santería also includes various rituals and ceremonies, such as divination, drumming, dancing, and the use of sacred objects like beaded necklaces and staffs. One of the most significant ceremonies is the initiation into the religion, which involves a series of complex rituals and the adoption of a sacred name.

In addition to its religious practices, Santería is also known for its emphasis on healing and spiritual cleansing. Practitioners may use herbs, oils, and other natural remedies to heal physical and spiritual ailments.

Overall, Santería is a rich and complex religion that has played an important role in the cultural and spiritual lives of many people in the Caribbean and Latin America, as well as in diaspora communities around the world.