Ogun in Candomblé – The Orisha of war, agriculture and technology

Ogun in Candomblé was one of the first deities of this religion. And we even know that there are hundreds of Orixás, this is the only god of war, agriculture and technology. It is worth mentioning that soon after the creation of the world, Ogun was the first Orixá to come to Earth. Therefore, in many African nations, his name is Oriki or Osin Imole, which means “the first orixá on Earth”. Want to know more about this powerful Orisha? Then check it out!

The mythology of Ogun in Candomblé

It may seem strange that Ogun in Candomblé is at the same time the god of war, technology, agriculture and hunting, but African mythology provides an explanation: Ogun, to survive in the forest, forged his own weapons (technology). These weapons were used both for hunting (agriculture) and for striking their enemies (war). Ogun can be given the title of the first deity worshiped by the Yoruba people, hence its importance to Candomblé.

Biography of Ogun in Candomblé

Ogun no Candomblé is the son of Oduduá (his father, the creator of the Earth) and Yemu (his mother, of stunning beauty). Ogun fell in love with his mother, Yemu, with whom he had sex, and for that reason he was expelled from home by Ododuá. From there, he lived in the forest, where he developed his skills as a hunter and warrior.

Ogun suffered several disappointments in love. In addition to not being able to see his mother and lover anymore, he was still betrayed by other wives throughout his life. With that, he ended up feeling a certain contempt for women. It is believed that many abusive or sexist men today are children of Ogun.

In Africa, Ogun in Candomblé is worshiped only by men. Women are forbidden to worship him. This deity was always involved in wars with neighboring nations, from which he brought slaves. Ogun destroyed several African cities, including the kingdom of Irê-Ekiti. There, he killed the king and declared himself the nation’s new ruler.

The disappearance of Ogun in Candomblé

Soon after the conquest, Ogun left Irê and left for other wars. Upon returning to his hometown, after many years, he experienced unhappiness. The nation celebrated a ceremony in which everyone was supposed to be silent. Thus, no one spoke to Ogun, who became enraged and cut off the heads of all the residents of the region.

His son, who had taken his place on the throne while his father fought, explained the situation to him. Ogun then felt enormous regret and decided he didn’t want to live anymore. He disappeared under the Earth, becoming the orixá we know today.

Ogun’s colors are blue and white, or white and red. the day of the week
Tuesday is recommended to do work at Ogun, when, preferably, feijoada and yam should be served.

Legacy of Ogun in Candomblé and Syncretism

It was Ogun in Candomblé who taught humanity to forge iron and steel. He always carries various metal instruments such as axe, spade, hoe, pick, sword and knife.

As with other orixás, the enslaved Brazilians also had to unite Ogun with the Christian deities. In Candomblé, Ogun is syncretized with São Jorge.

Characteristics of Ogun’s children in Candomblé

The children of Ogun in Candomblé are strong, fierce, arrogant and impulsive. They have great difficulty forgiving those who hurt them. They have volatile moods, going from joy to hate in a few minutes. On the other hand, there are some advantages. Your children never shy away from a fight and are usually winners of the personal or professional battles they engage in.

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