Vodou Research Paper

In this essay, I will be talking about Vodou and their beliefs, practices, special holidays and their history. Vodou originates in the West Indies of Haiti in the 17th century. It was brought to the western coast by slaves from Africa. Vodou roughly has 80 million people worldwide who practice in this religion and continue to grow. People who practice this religion are often called Vodouists and are from Central America and Africa. Many people believe that Vodouist practice black magic and curses but it’s misunderstood. Vodou was originally meant luck, blessings and ensuring good health. Like most religions there was a book or some sort of text about their religion not Vodou. As the religion of slave’s people didn’t know how to read or write
Legba can open the gates to the spirit world and allow them to communicate with each other. He is very respected and must be saluted every time he does something. They also, believe that there are two worlds one is the physical world and the other is a spirit world. The crossroad is a major key in this religion which means where both worlds intersect along with evil and good. Additionally, to the Vodou religion the soul consists of two types. One part is called the gros bon ange also known as big good angel and the other ti bon ange also known as little good angel. The gros bon ange consist of the main functions in our bodies such as blood flow and of course breathing. On the other hand, ti bon ange is our character and willpower. Additionally, Vodouist believe that death is a great transition from living to the afterlife. Although some believe that the spirits leave the deceased body but, is trapped in a body of water, over the mountains. Here are a few of many special holidays that they celebrate; Fet Gede, Grand Bois, Bath of Christmas and Mange Loa. The Fet Gede (All Souls Day) is a national holiday in Haiti. This holiday is celebrated on the first and second of