Haitian Vodou
An Introduction to Haiti's Indigenous Spiritual Tradition
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Haitian Vodou
Narrated by:
Adenrele Ojo
Buy Now for $24.99
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Narrated by:
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Adenrele Ojo
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By:
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Mambo Chita Tann
About this listen
Haitian Vodou is a fascinating spiritual tradition rich with ceremonies and magic, songs and prayers, dances and fellowship. Yet outside of Haiti, next to no one understands this joyous and profound way of life. In Haitian Vodou, Mambo Chita Tann explores the historical roots and contemporary practices of this unique tradition, including discussions of:
- Customs, beliefs, sacred spaces, and ritual objects
- Characteristics and behaviors of the Lwa, the spirits served by Vodou practitioners
- Common misconceptions such as "voodoo dolls" and the zombie phenomenon
- Questions and answers for attending ceremonies and getting involved in a sosyete (Vodou house)
- Correspondence tables, Kreyol glossary, supplemental prayer texts, and an extensive list of reference books and online resources
Well-researched, comprehensive, and engaging, Haitian Vodou will be a welcome addition for people new to Haitian spirituality as well as for students, practitioners, and academics.
©2012 Mambo Chita Tann (P)2020 TantorAn interesting insight into Hastion history and spirituality
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Vodou is not solely about rituals or the spiritual rewards of ceremonies. A significant portion of becoming a serious practitioner and initiate involves understanding the historical and social context of the culture, which this book illuminates in an informative manner. It also guides how to find a legitimate house, lineage, and how to approach initiation based on mutual respect.
There is no room for those seeking quick rituals or superficial understandings often associated with books on Haitian Vodou. However, the book provides a breakdown of the lwa (spirits) involved.
I found this book more informative than any other I have read on Haitian Vodou and look forward to more works by this author, primarily because it is written through an anthropological, historical, and sociological lens. I was introduced to Vodou by someone who did not respect his godfather’s tradition due to cultural factors and acted as an imposter in several African Traditional Religions (ATRs). However, I approach these practices with seriousness.
When I explored other ATRs like Mesa Blanca, 21 Divisions, and then entered a house of Haitian Vodou, I was committed and serious about my work, which led to profound experiences. The person who initially introduced me did not respect the history, customs, or culture of Haiti. Thus, I am seeking alternative ways to embrace my native ancestry without the influence of someone steeped in false pretenses.
This book is the first, and likely the only, resource that provides accurate and informative content about Haitian Vodou. It is imperative to approach this tradition with sincerity, an open heart, an open mind, and integrity. Avoid being a fraud or mixing traditions with Westernized concepts that have been co-opted by those who originally inflicted the issues we face today.
Be authentic, as this will prepare your spiritual framework for your kanzo ceremony. I cannot speak to the fates of those who dabble and then walk away from a tradition or try to blend their practices with new-age concepts, Christian beliefs, and Grimoire-based demonology, claiming it as “authentic Vodou” despite having never left the state they were born in. The level of delusion I observe is troubling. Do not be that person. Be willing to commit, grow, and learn from the culture you practice; otherwise, do not claim to practice within that cultural paradigm.
Be informed and educated. Stay open and willing to learn. Be taught, humble, and respectful. Recognize that you know nothing, which is how I felt while reading this book and later listening to the audio version. It helped me assess the false teachings I received from an individual with a distorted view of ATRs.
I acknowledge my humility, honesty, and imperfection. I am willing to understand the cultures of the spiritual paths I explore. I wouldn't pursue Jewish Kabbalah for the same reason—being out of alignment with Jewish culture.
Walk your talk and talk your walk with action embodied in authenticity bc the spiritual world will notice a fake.
This book strongly emphasizes this attitude for all practitioners, especially in light of the history of the slave revolution and the lwa involved in the ceremonies.
Anything that embodies a pro slave trade perspective cannot be easily inaugurated within Vodou without devastating consequences or upheaval, as highlighted throughout the text.
Historically invigorating for all practitioners; anti slave trade from 1791 until present
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.