Sacred Symbols In Voodoo – Unlocking The Mystical Language Of The Spirits
- Sep 11, 2024
- 6 min read
Written by Dr. Asanee Brogan, Spiritual Coach
Dr. Asanee Brogan is a seasoned spiritual coach who specializes in African spirituality, the Ifá tradition, and Voodoo. She is the founder of Asanee 44 LLC, the author of African Spirituality for Beginners and similar books, and the host of the African Spirit Reintegrated + Reimagined podcast.
Voodoo, a religion with deep roots in West African traditions, has evolved into a powerful spiritual system practiced across the globe. Particularly, this tradition is well known in locations such as Haiti, Louisiana, and various parts of the Caribbean and South America. Central to Voodoo’s robust spiritual legacy are its sacred symbols, often referred to as "veves." These intricate designs serve as a mystical language that bridges the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds. They allow practitioners to communicate with the Loa or spirits. In this post, we will uncover the origins of these sacred symbols, their role in Voodoo rituals, and the power of these dynamic art forms.
The origins of voodoo symbols
The symbols used in Voodoo are deeply connected to the religion’s African roots. Many of these symbols originated in the Vodun traditions of the Fon and Ewe people in present-day Benin and Togo. Prior to, during, and after the slavery period in the Americas, Africans transported their spiritual beliefs to the New World. These systems subsequently blended with the traditions of indigenous people groups already inhabiting the land. Later, they synchronized with the Christian beliefs of European colonizers. Particularly, Haitian Vodou and Lousiana Voodoo are well-known derivatives of these practices.
Yet, they maintained their core values and many symbolic elements, including voodoo veve. In fact, veves, the most prominent symbols in this religion, are mainstays in modern-day voodoo practices. These symbols are drawn on the ground using materials like cornmeal, flour, or ashes during rituals. They represent specific Loa, such as Baron Samedi, Erzulie Dantor, or Lenglensou, who serve as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms. Veves also elicit the help of the Loa by invoking their presence during rituals and ceremonies.
The role of veves in voodoo rituals
In Voodoo rituals, veves are central components of spiritual communication. When a veve is drawn, it acts as a spiritual beacon, attracting the corresponding Loa to the ceremony. Even the act of drawing a veve is a ritualistic process, often accompanied by drumming, chanting, and offerings. Each line and curve must be executed with precision, as the accuracy of the veve is believed to influence the power and presence of the summoned Loa.
Once the veve is complete, the Loa is invited to "mount" or possess the bodies of participants. This process allows for direct communication between the spirit and the practitioner. The Loa might offer guidance, answer questions, or perform healings through the possessed individual. During or after the ritual, the veve is often destroyed or left to fade away naturally.
Exploring the essence of voodoo veve
Let’s take a look at the intricate design of voodoo veve by exploring the essence of Loa Ogou Feray. This spirit serves as part of the Ogou family of Loa in Haiti. In this manifestation, Ogou Feray shares the same traits as Ogun, the god of war in the Yoruba tradition and other diaspora spiritual systems. He is known for being a trailblazer, a self-starter, and an industrialist. In a sense, Ogou is a colonizer as he developed metal technology that served as the impetus for early African civilization.
This Loa is a pioneering spirit as he is the ruler of fire, iron, war, and blacksmiths. He brings the energy of initiation, inspiration, empowerment, passion, and protection to his devotees. Ogou Feray is considered the god of technology since he controls the elements that make industrialization possible.
He is also a warrior, as his instruments can likewise be used to defend one’s territory. He brings forth fiery, passionate energy that helps us be victorious in whatever battle we are facing. In Haiti, the Ogou family of Loa is represented by the color red. Also, the Ogou family is often depicted with a machete, sword, or other ironclad instrument of warfare.
Veve design
Ogou Feray’s veve sparks the warrior, defender, and protector spirit in those who call upon his aid. The prominent aspects of his veve include five stars, a cross, the letter “S,” three interwoven triangles, and two circles, among other hieroglyphs. Each of these sigils comes together to tell the story of this masterfully powerful warrior energy.
The cross indicates that Ogou Feray is directionally aligned with all elements. Air symbolizes the mind or the intellect, while earth coincides with the principle of being grounded. Water represents fertility and abundance, and fire ignites passion, drive, and action. All of these elements are necessary for birthing order and civilization.
The letter “S” corresponds to the Cover of Hermes, which is ultimately a symbol of protection. The five stars represent spiritual procreation on all levels. They symbolize the combined procreative power of air, water, earth, fire, and spirit. The number five in African numerology and other cultures represents beneficial transformation and change. Ogou Feray is the initiator of civilization as he transformed the Earth by carving a path to make way for industry and development.
The three triangles represent divine power that facilitates expansion and growth. The circles inside the two bottom triangles synchronize with the principle of salt, a common spiritual tool representing protection and purification. In alchemy, salt is one of the tria prima (three primes) that are part of human identity. As one of the tria prima, salt represents the human body, correlating to the material realm. It can extend life through the process of purification. Likewise, it makes things more palatable for consumption.
Veve meaning
Ultimately, Ogou’s veve symbolizes Ogou Feray's alignment with all elements—air, earth, water, and fire. It indicates his protective nature and his ability to transform life through industrialization. Even more, it represents the concept of expansion and protection as growth brings many challenges. Overall, Ogou Feray’s veve portrays the masterful force necessary for civilization. When used in voodoo rituals, this symbol invokes the energy of collective development and progression.
The intersectionality of voodoo symbols and catholic iconography
Another element of Voodoo symbolism involves synchronization. When voodoo practices across the continent were introduced to the New World, they were mixed with other belief systems. In particular, Catholicism played a major role in subsequent iterations of African traditional religions throughout the diaspora.
In the early days of the transatlantic slavery era, adherents continued to use veve symbolism. However, they adopted Catholic iconology to represent various deities from their pantheon. This practice was primarily done to hide their practice in plain sight. Yet, it likewise preserved the tradition for descendants of individuals taken into captivity during that period.
Many instances of Loa disguised as Catholic saints or other venerable figures pervade modern-day voodoo culture. One example involves the association of Erzulie Freda with the Virgin Mary. Images of Mary often adorn voodoo altars as representations of this well-beloved Loa. However, adherents also use Freda’s veve in rituals and ceremonies.
Though voodoo culture has changed over time, and many openly practice it, Catholic synchronism maintains a very prominent place within it. Onlookers often see this in urban centers and industrial pockets where slavery left a lasting mark. However, it is not as common to see such synchronization in rural regions where the hand of colonization wasn’t as heavy. Instead, traditional practices prevail in these locations.
The power of veves in modern voodoo practice
In contemporary Voodoo practice, veves continue to hold immense spiritual power. However, they have transcended their traditional roots in the modern world. Veves have also gained recognition outside of Voodoo communities, appearing in popular culture, art, and literature.
You can now find these symbols in many non-traditional aspects of life, such as:
The varied uses of veve have even expanded to bodywear in the form of tattoos and jewelry.
However, it's essential to approach these symbols with respect and understanding. Regardless of how they are displayed, they serve as sacred artifacts integral to the spiritual lives of people worldwide.
The sacred language of voodoo symbols
Voodoo's sacred symbols, particularly veves, are much more than designs or decor. They are the spiritual language through which practitioners connect with the divine, invoke the presence of the Loa, and express their devotion. Each veve is a powerful tool for communication, protection, and transformation, carrying the essence of the spirits they represent.
For those interested in exploring Voodoo further, understanding the significance of these symbols is a vital step. Whether you are a practitioner, scholar, or simply curious about this spiritual tradition, veves offer an expansive understanding of the heart of Voodoo. They dwell at the intersection of sacred art forms and mystical power manifested through this time-honored tradition.
Are you interested in learning more about the Voodoo religion? Join Dr. Asanee’s course, Haitian Vodou (Voodoo): Mystery of the Cosmos, to gain in-depth knowledge about this deeply rooted tradition.
Read more from Dr. Asanee Brogan
Dr. Asanee Brogan, Spiritual Coach
Drawing from her deep-rooted practice in the Ifá tradition and Haitian Vodou, Dr. Asanee develops multifaceted resources, enriching her clients' understanding of African spirituality. Her commitment to sharing her evolving expertise involves coaching, writing, teaching, and mentorship. She is the founder and CEO of Asanee 44 LLC, a platform dedicated to integrating individuals into African traditional religions.
