By Samira Bello
Throughout history, the Orisas (divine entities in the Yoruba spiritual system) have been misrepresented, demonised, and vilified, particularly in the wake of colonialism and the spread of Abrahamic religions. This distortion of indigenous African spirituality has had lasting effects on cultural identity, religious freedom, and the perception of traditional beliefs.
The Orisas are revered as intermediaries between humanity and Olodumare, the Supreme Creator in Yoruba cosmology. Each Orisa embodies specific natural and metaphysical forces. For example, Ogun is the Orisa of iron and war, Yemoja represents motherhood and the ocean, and Sango embodies thunder and justice. These deities govern aspects of existence and serve as guides for adherents of the Yoruba faith.
Unlike the binary worldview in some monotheistic traditions, Yoruba spirituality embraces duality and balance, acknowledging that divinity manifests in multiple ways. Worship of the Orisas is rooted in ancestral veneration, community cohesion, and a deep relationship with nature.
With the arrival of European colonisers in West Africa, indigenous spiritual systems came under attack. Missionaries and colonial administrators labelled traditional African religions as “paganism” or “witchcraft,” portraying them as primitive and diabolical. The Orisas, once revered, were systematically demonised as evil spirits. This was part of a broader colonial strategy to undermine African identity and establish religious dominance (I’ll speak more about this in future articles).
Forced conversions to Christianity and Islam led many Africans to abandon or conceal their traditional beliefs. Sacred groves, shrines, and spiritual practices were destroyed, and practitioners of Ifá and Orisa worship were often persecuted. This ideological warfare severed many from their ancestral spiritual heritage, leading to generational amnesia regarding the Orisas’ true nature.
Despite the violent suppression of their faith, enslaved Africans carried their spiritual traditions to the Americas, where they adapted them under new conditions. In Brazil (Candomblé), Cuba (Santería), Haiti (Vodou), and other parts of the diaspora, the worship of the Orisas persisted, often syncretised with Catholic saints to evade persecution.
For example, Sango was linked to Saint Barbara, while Yemoja was associated with the Virgin Mary. These adaptations ensured the survival of Orisa worship but also introduced misunderstandings that further complicated perceptions of these deities.
Modern media continues to reinforce negative stereotypes about African spirituality. Films, television shows, and literature often depict Orisa worship as dark, malevolent, or associated with sorcery and black magic. Characters who practice Yoruba spirituality are frequently portrayed as villains, reinforcing the colonial-era narrative of the Orisas as demonic beings.
Furthermore, some evangelical movements in Africa and the diaspora actively campaign against indigenous religions, spreading misinformation that frames Orisa worship as devil worship. This further alienates young Africans from their spiritual heritage, deepening the historical erasure of their traditions.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Yoruba spirituality, both in Africa and the diaspora. Scholars, traditional priests (babalawos: ‘father of secrets’), and cultural advocates are working to reclaim the true essence of the Orisas, challenging centuries of misrepresentation. Social media, books, and academic discourse are helping to demystify these spiritual entities and educate people about their profound philosophical and ethical teachings.
Celebrities and public figures have also played a role in reviving Orisa worship, embracing traditional African spirituality as a source of empowerment. Artists, musicians, and writers are incorporating Orisa imagery into their work.
The demonisation of the Orisas is a direct result of colonialism, religious intolerance, and cultural imperialism. However, the enduring nature of Yoruba spirituality demonstrates its resilience and adaptability.
In an era of decolonisation and cultural revival, the truth about the Orisas must be restored. They are not demons or forces of evil but sacred beings who guide, protect, and enrich the lives of those who seek their wisdom. Understanding and respecting this rich spiritual tradition is a step toward healing the wounds of the past and embracing a future rooted in cultural authenticity and self-determination.
Business Day
Samira Bello is a young Nigerian writer exploring Yoruba history, African spiritual traditions and wellness. samiradbello@outlook.com
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