Introduction
Understanding Umbanda
L-Umbanda was formed in a society marked by race and class hierarchies, and gives spiritual authority to historically marginalized figures: former slaves, idealized Aboriginals, children, street people and gatekeepers.
A frequent account attributed the foundation to Zélio Fernandino de Moraes and Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas in 1908.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- L-Umbanda was formed in a society marked by race and class hierarchies.
- A frequent account attributed the foundation to Zélio Fernandino de Moraes and Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas in 1908.
- A supreme God, the *orixás* and evolving spirits make up an orderly universe.
- i-Umbanda makes mediumship a service of charity and community reconstruction.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
A frequent account attributed the foundation to Zélio Fernandino de Moraes and Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas in 1908.
Historical developments
Historians see rather a plural emergence from several groups and practices.
Ritual life and teachings
A supreme God, the *orixás* and evolving spirits make up an orderly universe.
A living and plural tradition
Different schools then accentuated African, esoteric, Christian or kardecist elements.
History and development
A frequent account attributes the foundation to Zélio Fernandino de Moraes and Caboclo das Sete Encruzilhadas in 1908. Historians see rather a plural emergence from several groups and practices.
Different schools then accentuated African, esoteric, Christian or kardecist elements.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
A supreme God, the *orixás* and evolving spirits make up an orderly universe. The mediums incorporate entities that offer consultations, blessings and care.
Songs *pontos*, percussion, fumigation, herbs, candles and magnetic passes accompany the sessions. Exu can be understood as guardian and force of movement; his assimilation to the devil comes mainly from hostile Christian readings.
Texts, symbols and transmission
There is no single canon. Houses transmit prayers, songs, ritual drawings and own doctrines.
White clothing, crossroads, caboclos arrows, the rosary of the pretos-velhos* and pearl guides are common.
What research can and cannot say
The effects of consultation can be studied from the standpoint of support, listening and identity. Mediumistic explanations are a matter of faith. Internal diversity prohibits giving it a single theology.
References