In a world where slavery once cast its shadow, Nigerians bound by its chains found themselves compelled to adapt their beliefs to survive. This was the reality of the Orisha or Yoruba culture and the ancient Orisha Horoscope.
When they arrived in the colonies of America as slaves, they merged their deities with those of other religions, like Catholicism, weaving a tapestry of faith to safeguard their traditions, birthing what we now call Santeria.
Which signs grace the Orisha Horoscope?
Oggun – March 22 to April 20
The orisha of beginnings and strength. Bestowing power, determination, and vitality, they lead with natural charisma. Protecting against illness and surgery, they are akin to Saint John the Baptist, favouring Tuesdays, draped in green, purple, and black, with the number 3 and its multiples.
Oko – April 21 to May 21
Symbolising justice and tranquillity, Oko instils determination and enterprise. Unfazed by obstacles, they cultivate prosperity and abundance. Revering Saint Isidore the Labourer, they favour Mondays, bedecked in red and white, with the number 7 and its multiples.
Elegua – May 22 to June 21
Gatekeeper of destiny, Elegua radiates joy and charm. With a dual nature, they blend intelligence with restlessness. Under the guidance of the Child of Atocha, they honour Mondays and Tuesdays, adorned in red and black, with the number 3.
Oshun – June 22 to July 23
Goddess of motherhood and love, Oshun blesses with sensitivity and compassion. Her children are dreamers, compassionate yet capricious. Under the patronage of Our Lady of Charity, they celebrate Fridays and Saturdays, bedecked in yellow and white, with the number 5 and its multiples.
Shangó – July 24 to August 23
Lord of fire and war, Shangó embodies strength and passion. Creative and analytical, they command respect. Honouring Saint Barbara, they exalt Fridays and Saturdays, adorned in red and white, with the number 4.
Yemaya – August 24 to September 23
Goddess of the sea and motherhood, Yemaya nurtures with empathy and wisdom. Though shy, they possess deep intuition. Devoted to Our Lady of Regla, they revere Saturdays, cloaked in blue and white, with the number 7.
Orisha Horoscope
Obbatalá – September 24 to October 23
The creator and arbiter of justice, Obbatalá embodies intelligence and bravery. With Sundays as their day, they radiate in white, guided by the number 8 and its multiples.
Orula – October 24 to November 23
Seer of the orishas, Orula offers sage counsel and wisdom. They channel the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi, honouring Sundays, draped in yellow and green, with the numbers 4 and 6.
Babalú Aye – November 24 to December 21
Orisha of health, Babalú Aye brings understanding and optimism. Adhering to Fridays or Wednesdays, they embrace bishop purple, guided by the numbers 17, 4, 11, and 13.
Agayú Solá – December 22 to January 20
Orisha of the earth, Agayú Solá embodies pragmatism and ambition. With Wednesdays as their day, they are adorned in dark red and white, guided by the number 9 and its multiples.
Oshosi – January 21 to February 19
Representing friendship and talent, Oshosi is a beacon of creativity and tolerance. They honour Tuesdays, draped in green and red, with the number 3 and its multiples.
Inle – February 20 to March 21
Orisha of earth and water. Inle symbolises love and humility. Embracing Fridays, they shine in dark green, blue, and coral, guided by the numbers 3, 5, and 7 and their multiples.
This article was syndicated from Marie Claire Argentina
Translated and adapted by Praise Vandeh, Marie Claire Nigeria Content Writer