What is symbols of santeria?

Santeria is a syncretic religion that emerged in Cuba during the colonial period, blending elements of Catholicism brought by the Spanish with African spiritual traditions imported by enslaved people from West and Central Africa. The religion is also practiced today in other parts of Latin America, as well as in the United States and Europe.

Santeria includes a vast pantheon of deities, or orishas, who represent different natural forces and aspects of human experience. These orishas are often represented in Santeria by specific symbols, including:

• Colors: Each orisha is associated with a particular color or combination of colors. For example, the orisha Eleggua is associated with red and black, while the orisha Oshun is associated with yellow and gold.

• Numbers: Each orisha is also associated with a specific number or set of numbers. For example, Eleggua is associated with the number three, while Oshun is associated with the number five.

• Attributes: Orishas are often depicted holding or surrounded by certain objects that represent their powers or personalities. For example, Oshun is often depicted with a mirror, a fan, and a jug of honey or other sweet liquid.

• Animals: Orishas are also associated with particular animals, which may be sacrificed as offerings or used in rituals. For example, Eleggua is associated with the rooster and the dog, while Oshun is associated with the peacock and the river fish.

These symbols are used in Santeria to communicate with the orishas and to perform rituals and ceremonies that honor and appease them. They are also used in divination, or the practice of seeking guidance from the orishas through various methods, such as casting cowrie shells or interpreting dreams.