A gathering of Cubans in the United States recently held a religious ceremony to honor Oshún, one of the most revered deities in the Yoruba pantheon, symbolizing love, prosperity, and rivers. The event was captured in a video shared on TikTok by user @kingroyoficial, illustrating participants dressed in white, yellow, and gold—traditional colors associated with the orisha—as they danced, sang, and paid homage to Oshún with offerings and drinks.
The video prominently displays the phrase "Maferefún Oshún," a Cuban Santería expression meaning "blessed be Oshún" or "may Oshún protect us." The ceremony, seemingly held in an indoor space with a pool, attracted dozens of practitioners and enthusiasts of the Regla de Ocha or Santería, an African-origin religion deeply rooted in Cuba and carried beyond its borders by the Cuban diaspora.
One segment of the video depicts an animal offering ritual, a common practice within the faith, though its online sharing often incites controversy among viewers unfamiliar with the religious and cultural context of these rituals.
Devotees of Santería celebrate Oshún Day each year on September 8, which, through syncretism with Catholicism, is associated with the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, Cuba's patron saint. However, these celebrations and offerings can occur at other times throughout the year, depending on the religious commitments of those initiated.
As the video unfolds, followers repeatedly chant "Maferefún Oshún" while dancing and sending their prayers to the deity of love and abundance, demonstrating the vibrant presence of Afro-Cuban culture within the diaspora community.
Understanding the Oshún Ceremonies
What is the significance of Oshún in Cuban Santería?
Oshún is one of the most important deities in the Yoruba pantheon, symbolizing love, prosperity, and rivers. In Cuban Santería, she is revered for her ability to bring these attributes into the lives of her followers.
Why are the colors white, yellow, and gold significant in the Oshún rituals?
These colors are traditionally associated with Oshún and are believed to represent her attributes. White symbolizes purity, yellow represents her connection to rivers and gold reflects her association with prosperity and wealth.
How do followers of Santería celebrate Oshún Day?
Oshún Day, celebrated on September 8, involves rituals, offerings, and prayers in honor of Oshún. It is also associated with the Virgin of Charity of El Cobre, reflecting the syncretism between Santería and Catholicism.