DIFFERENT CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS UPON MATTERS AND SPIRITS

Western mentality gives a “use” to everything and everyone. From astrology to geomancy, from gramaryes angel/demon lists to Saints, everything and everybody has a Patron.
Doesn’t it sound too familiar and also a bit feudal? It is. In good and bad.
The first time I have met a Dominican Vodú High Priest of 21 Divisiones (Papa Bocor Frank Lugo) I dumbly asked, for my field researches, a comprehensive list of Spirits and Their functions and use.
He got angry and after a long silence, He warmly replied: “Nobody likes to be “used” especially among friends and family.
What is your use for them?”
I was shocked. Simple, real, unusual, wise.
He continued “We serve the Misterios like We serve an invisible and powerful family. This is my belief. If I don’t believe and trust in my family what else can I do?”.
Papa Frank than told me about Erzulie Freda and reminded me that beauty and love have no purpose or use, like power and money they just have a presence, THEY ARE”.
Everytime I am asked about the “use” of a Spirit I mostly remain silent, unless I find myself in front of a familiar person.

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About Manuel Congo

A renowned Palero, Babalawo, Ajarn and Hougan, Manuel Congo lives in rural Italy, where he spends most of his free time touring on his custom Harley Davidson. An avid ethnographer and noted expert on Italian witchcraft, Manuel has spent decades working for elite clients around the world, conducting investigations in locales as far-flung as Togo and Thailand. He enjoys rainy days, BBQ and blondes.

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