A Cuban woman fulfilled an emotional promise to Oshún, a deity of the Yoruba pantheon, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre in Miami. The woman arrived at the sanctuary barefoot and holding a bouquet of sunflowers, a traditional offering to the orisha.
The moment was shared in a TikTok video by the user @quicutis.noslien, where the Cuban can be seen walking barefoot across the walkway towards the shrine and heading inside the temple alongside other worshippers.
"My promise finally fulfilled, patroness of Cuba, my Oshún," wrote the protagonist upon completing the ritual, referring to the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, syncretized in Cuban santería with this orisha, a symbol of femininity, sweetness, and love.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Charity, located on the shores of Biscayne Bay in Miami, is one of the main pilgrimage sites for Cubans in exile, where both Catholic and Afro-Cuban traditions converge in devotion to Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre, the patroness of Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the devotion to the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre and Cuban religious traditions
Why is the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre so important to Cubans?
The Virgin of Charity of El Cobre is the patroness of Cuba and a symbol of cultural identity and resilience. Her devotion brings together Catholics and practitioners of Afro-Cuban religions, and she is regarded as a spiritual guide, especially in challenging times. Her worship originated in the 17th century and has endured as a source of hope and faith for Cubans both on the island and abroad.
What does Oshún mean in Cuban santería?
Oshún is a deity of the Yoruba pantheon that symbolizes femininity, sweetness, and love. In Cuban santería, Oshún is syncretized with Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre. She is a revered figure for her association with love and fertility, and she is the focus of devotion both in Cuba and among the Cuban diaspora.
How is the Day of the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre celebrated?
The Day of Our Lady of Charity of El Cobre is celebrated on September 8 with masses, processions, and offerings of flowers and candles. In Cuba and within Cuban communities abroad, such as in Miami, cultural and spiritual activities are held in honor of the Virgin. It is an event that symbolizes unity and hope for many Cubans, who place in the Virgin their pleas and thanks for favors granted.
What role does Yoruba religion play in Cuban culture?
The Yoruba religion or Santería is one of the deepest expressions of popular spirituality in Cuba. It combines elements of African religions with Catholicism, creating a unique cultural syncretism. The Yoruba deities, known as orishas, are revered through ceremonies and rituals that are part of the cultural fabric of many Cuban communities, both on the island and in the diaspora.
Filed under:
