Caribbean Diaspora

Palo Mayombe

Also known as: Palo Monte, Las Reglas de Congo

Cuban, Kongo-descended — Cuba

Supreme Creator

Nzambi

Also: Sambia

Core Beliefs
  • • Kongo-derived spiritual practices
  • • Nganga/Prenda — consecrated cauldron containing spiritual forces
  • • Direct communication with the dead (Nfumbi)
  • • Mpungos — nature spirits and forces
  • • Emphasis on ancestors and the dead over deities
Key Figures

Zarabanda — Mpungo of iron and war

Siete Rayos — Mpungo of lightning and fire

Divination System

Chamalongo (coconut shell or coin divination)

Priesthood

Palero/Palera, Tata Nganga

Diaspora Connections

Kongo Religion (root tradition)Quimbanda (Brazil)