Member-only story

Africa's Ogun: A Deity of the Old World and the New

Clark Bell

·11.9k Followers· Follow

Published in Africa S Ogun: Old World And New

5 min read

352 View Claps

18 Respond

Save

Listen

Africa's Ogun: Old World and New

by Sandra T. Barnes

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Ogun, The Yoruba Deity Of War, Iron, And Hunting Africa S Ogun: Old World And New

Ogun is one of the most important and widely worshipped deities in the Yoruba religion. He is associated with war, iron, hunting, and the smithing of metal. Ogun is also seen as a protector of the community and a bringer of justice.

Ogun in the Old World

Ogun has been worshipped in Africa for centuries. The earliest evidence of his cult comes from the ancient city of Ile-Ife, which is considered to be the birthplace of the Yoruba people. In Ile-Ife, Ogun was worshipped as a warrior god and the patron of blacksmiths.

Over time, the cult of Ogun spread to other parts of West Africa. He became particularly popular among the Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin. In these regions, Ogun was seen as a powerful and dangerous deity who could both protect and destroy.

Ogun in the New World

The Yoruba people were brought to the Americas as slaves in large numbers during the transatlantic slave trade. They brought their religion and their gods with them, and Ogun was one of the most important deities they worshipped.

In the Americas, Ogun became known by different names, such as Ogou in Haiti, Oggun in Cuba, and Ogun in Brazil. However, he retained his essential characteristics as a warrior, blacksmith, and protector.

The cult of Ogun flourished in the Americas, and he became one of the most popular deities in the African diaspora. He was worshipped in a variety of religious traditions, including Lukumi, Candomble, and Santeria.

The Symbolism of Ogun

Ogun is a complex deity with a rich symbolism. He is often depicted as a warrior with a sword or a machete. He is also associated with iron, which is seen as a symbol of strength and power.

Ogun's other symbols include the blacksmith's forge, the anvil, and the axe. These symbols represent his role as a protector of the community and a bringer of justice.

The Legacy of Ogun

Ogun is a powerful and enduring deity who has been worshipped for centuries. He is a symbol of strength, courage, and justice. Ogun's legacy continues to live on in the African diaspora, where he is revered as a protector and a source of inspiration.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Ogun among people of African descent. This interest is due in part to the rise of the Black Power movement and the search for African roots. Ogun has become a symbol of African pride and identity.

Ogun is a complex and fascinating deity with a rich history and a powerful legacy. He is a symbol of strength, courage, and justice. Ogun is a reminder of the African roots of many people in the Americas, and his legacy continues to live on.

Africa's Ogun: Old World and New

by Sandra T. Barnes

4.7 out of 5