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Guides to Afro-Brazilian culture and traditions
Answers to questions about names, histories and celebrations. Each guide includes sources for further reading and explains where interpretations differ between traditions and terreiros, or religious houses.
Cosme e Damião, Ibejis and Erês
Understand their differences, the September dates, and the meaning of sweets and caruru in celebrations.
Read the guide →Exu as an orixá and as a spirit entity: what is the difference?
Deities, spirit entities and ritual groups: a guide to understanding these names within each tradition.
Read the guide →Who is Maria Padilha in Umbanda?
Pombagiras, spirit names and historical narratives, with attention to differences between terreiros.
Read the guide →Who is Zé Pelintra?
Explore his connections to Jurema, Umbanda and the malandro figure while respecting their distinct traditions.
Read the guide →