Elegua (Yoruba language: Èṣù-Ẹlẹ́gbára (North America) and Ẹlẹ́gbá, in Cuba spelled Eleggua; also known as Eleguá in Latin America and Hispanophone Caribbean islands) is an Orisha, a deity of roads in the religions of traditional Ifa-Orisha, Santería, Winti, Umbanda, Quimbanda, Holy Infant of Atocha, and Candomblé.
In Africa
Elegua is known as Èṣù-Ẹlẹ́gbára and Ẹlẹ́gbá in the Yoruba religion and is closely associated with
Eshu.
Ẹlẹ́gbára means the "master of force" in the
Yoruba language.
Santería
Eleguá (also known as Legba) is recognized in the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Colombia, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Mexico as the orisha and "owner" of caminos—roads and paths. Eleguá is often depicted as a trickster figure, embodying both youth and mischief as well as age and wisdom, symbolizing the various paths and phases of fate and life. His colors are red, black, and white, and his associated numbers are 3 and 21. In Santería, all ceremonies and rituals must first receive Eleguá’s approval before proceeding, as he serves as the messenger of Olofi. Within the Cuban tradition of Regla de Ocha, Eleguá differs slightly from Echu, who is considered his brother but characterized as more dangerous and aggressive. Eleguá is known for moving silently, whereas Echu is described as forcefully "breaking through." Manifestations of Eleguá include Akefun, Aleshujade, Arabobo, Awanjonu, Lalafán, Obasín, Oparicocha, and Osokere.
There is a patakí (story) in Santería in which Olodumare gives Eleguá the keys to the past, present, and future; for this reason, Eleguá is often depicted holding a set of keys. A figure of Eleguá may be placed in the house behind the entrance door. These figures are usually made with cement and cowrie shells, and sometimes sit within clay dishes.
In Brazil
In Afro-Brazilian religion Elegbara is
Eshu.
See also
External links
