Powers of the Orishas: Santeria and the Worship of Saints

During the slave trade, the Yoruba of southwestern Nigeria who were brought to Cuba were forbidden the practice of their religion by their Spanish masters.

In order to continue their magical and religious observances safely the slaves opted for the identification and disguise of the Orishas with some of the Catholic Saints worshipped by the Spainiards. In this manner they were able to worship their deities under the very noses of the Spainiards without danger of punishment.

• Santeria: the Religion: Faith, Rites, Magic (World Religion and Magic)
• The Handbook of Yoruba Religious Concepts
• Finding Soul on the Path of Orisa: A West African Spiritual Tradition
• The Way of Orisa: Empowering Your Life Through the Ancient African Religion of Ifa
• Santeria: A Brief Beginners Guide to Santeria History, Practices, Deities, Spells and Rituals. A Condensed Santeria Guide for Beginners
• Rituals and Spells of Santeria
• Santeria Formulary & Spellbook: Candles, Oils, Incense
• Seven African Powers: The Orishas (Mojo's African Magic)
• Eshu-ellegua Elegbarra: Santeria and the Orisha of the Crossroads
• The Magical Power of the Saints: Evocation and Candle Rituals