The 16 Orishas

Each house and nation has nuances — here we provide a pedagogical basis with honored greetings. Deepen your knowledge with those who accompany you in the tradition.

The Orishas are primordial forces of nature and fundamental archetypes of human existence, personified in Yoruba philosophy as intermediary divinities between Olodumare (the Supreme Being) and human beings. They are not gods in the Western sense — they are cosmic principles with personality, stories (Itan), colors, offerings, and their own days of the week. Each person is born with a ruling Orisha (defined in the Bori rite), but all 16 main Orishas dwell in each of us in varying degrees. To know the Orishas is to know the forces that shape the world and the very soul. Explore each Orisha on this page — from Exu (the messenger of crossroads) to Obatala (father of creation) — and discover which one resonates most deeply with you.

About the Orishas

How many Orishas are there?+
Tradition says there are 401 Orishas — a symbolic number representing infinity. In popular worship, 16 main Orishas are usually recognized — those most frequently invoked in Candomblé, Umbanda, and Santería rituals.
Do we all have a ruling Orisha?+
Yes, according to tradition. Each person comes into the world under the primary protection of one or two Orishas — revealed through the Merindilogun shell divination or Ifá. The "Father of Head" and "Mother of Head" most influence character, temperament, and destiny.
Can I worship Orishas without being initiated?+
Yes, there are non-initiatory practices — greetings, small symbolic offerings, respect for sacred days, and philosophical study. Deeper rituals (sacrifices, initiations) require guidance from a Babalawo, Iyalorisa, or Babalorisa.
Are the Orishas different in Brazil, Cuba, and Africa?+
Essentially the same Orishas, but with cultural variations. Example: Oxum in Nigeria and Brazil is the Orisha of rivers and love; in Cuba she is called Ochún and is syncretized with the Virgen de la Caridad. The essence is shared; rituals and colors may vary.