Haitian Vodou Lwa: An Introduction to the Spirits of Vodou

Haitian Vodou is a living religion, practised in Haiti and across the Haitian diaspora. It took shape in colonial Saint-Domingue among enslaved Africans, who brought the religious traditions of the Fon, the Yoruba, the Kongo and other peoples and combined them with elements of Catholicism. At its heart is service to the lwa, the spirits who mediate between human beings and a distant supreme God, Bondye.

Bondye and the lwa

Vodouists believe in one God, Bondye (from the French Bon Dieu), who is remote from everyday affairs. The lwa are closer: spirits with distinct personalities, preferences and domains, who are served through offerings, song, dance and prayer, and who may take possession of devotees during ceremonies. Priests, the oungan and manbo, lead that service.

Nations of spirits

The lwa are grouped into "nations", nanchon. The two best known are the Rada, often described as "cool" and associated with roots in the old kingdom of Dahomey, and the Petwo, "hot" and fiery, associated with Kongo traditions and with the Haitian Revolution. Many lwa have forms in both.

Vèvè and flags

Each lwa has a vèvè, an intricate ritual drawing traced on the ground in cornmeal or other powders to call the spirit, and many are honoured with drapo, sequined ceremonial flags. These arts were the subject of the landmark exhibition and book Sacred Arts of Haitian Vodou (UCLA Fowler Museum, 1995), edited by Donald Cosentino, which helped counter long-standing stereotypes of the religion.

The lwa in this Journal

• Agwe: master of the sea, patron of sailors and fishermen.
• Erzulie: the family of lwa of love and womanhood, from the refined Freda to the fierce Dantor.
• Simbi: the spirits of springs and fresh water, of Kongo origin.
• Gran Bwa: master of the forest, leaves and sacred trees.

Wearing a lwa's emblem

Vèvè are sacred designs in a living religion. A piece inspired by a lwa is best worn with knowledge and respect, as a sign of devotion or of admiration for Haitian culture. For related Afro-Atlantic traditions, see our guide to the Yoruba orishas.