Caribbean Diaspora

Haitian Vodou

Also known as: Voodoo, Vodou

HaitianHaiti

Supreme Creator

Bondye

Core Beliefs
  • Supreme unknowable creator (Bondye) distant from human affairs
  • Lwa spirits as intermediaries grouped into nations (Rada, Petwo)
  • Ancestor veneration (Zanj) residing in Ginen (Africa)
  • Serving the spirits (Sèvi Lwa) through ritual
  • Spirit possession — Lwa inhabits devotee (chwal)
  • Vèvè ritual drawings, drumming, and animal sacrifice
  • Syncretism with Roman Catholic saints
Key Figures

Papa LegbaGatekeeper Lwa, opens crossroads

Erzulie FredaLwa of love and luxury

Baron SamediLwa of death and cemeteries

Damballa WedoSerpent Lwa, creator spirit

Divination System

Spirit possession and ritual consultation

Priesthood

Oungan (priest), Manbo (priestess)

Diaspora Connections

West African Vodun (root tradition)Louisiana Voodoo