A Yoruba religious Cuban has gone viral on TikTok after sharing an emotional testimony about her devotion and practices within Santería, highlighting the importance of her faith in her daily life and family.
“I am a Yoruba religious practitioner, and of course, I attend to my Elegguá on Mondays,” the woman, identified on the social network as @maite_oshun, begins to say.
In her message, she reaffirms her spiritual connection as a daughter of Oshún, the Yoruba deity of love, sweetness, and fertility, and describes various rituals and beliefs that are part of her daily life.
The religious sister explains that in her home, there is always cascarilla and honey, and she maintains a close bond with her eggún (ancestral spirits), to whom she gives the importance they deserve.
It also refers to the use of spiritual protective elements, such as making a cross on the soles of one's shoes before entering certain places, and ringing a bell to Oshún when facing difficulties.
"When my son was ill, I gave him Orula's hand to save him," she shares in one of the most personal moments of the video, firmly defending her faith: "This daughter of Oshún loves and stands up for her religion."
The testimony has generated supportive comments on social media, both from believers and people interested in Afro-Cuban religion, a practice with deep cultural roots on the island.
Yoruba religion —also known as Santería or Regla de Ocha— is one of the most deeply rooted expressions of popular spirituality in Cuba. Its ceremonies, deities, and rituals are part of the cultural fabric of many Cuban communities, both on the island and in the diaspora.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yoruba Religion and Spiritual Practices in Cuba
Who is Oshún in Yoruba religion?
Oshún is a Yoruba deity associated with love, sweetness, and fertility. In Santería, she is syncretized with Our Lady of Charity of Copper, the patroness of Cuba. Oshún is revered for her ability to provide love and prosperity to her followers, and is commonly depicted in yellow and gold hues.
What are some of the daily practices of the Yoruba religious practitioners?
Practitioners of the Yoruba religion engage in various daily practices to maintain their faith and spiritual connection. Among these practices are the care of Elegguá on Mondays, the use of eggshell and honey in the home, and spiritual protection through crosses on the soles of their shoes. It is also common to ring bells to Oshún in times of difficulty.
Why do Yoruba religious practitioners avoid having their heads touched?
In Yoruba religion, the head is regarded as a very important spiritual connection point. For this reason, practitioners avoid allowing anyone to touch their heads, permitting only their religious godparents, or in specific situations such as at the hairdresser, to do so. This principle seeks to protect the individual's energy and spiritual bond.
What does it mean to set up a throne for Oshún at home within the Yoruba religion?
Setting up a throne for Oshún is creating a sacred space in the home dedicated to this deity. This space is adorned with elements and colors characteristic of Oshún, such as yellow and gold fabrics, fans, and mirrors. The thrones are used to perform rituals and pay homage to Oshún, strengthening the spiritual connection of the devotee with the deity.
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