If your knowledge of Santeria only goes so far as the reference in the 90s song by Sublime, you have a lot to learn. The word “Santeria” is translated from the Spanish for “worship of saints”, though that translation alone doesn’t really paint an accurate picture of what Santeria is all about. Not only does Santeria involve the worship of saints (called Orishas), but it is also a quest for enlightenment and kinship with God. What makes Santeria so unique is the fact that it is a syncretic religion – it combines the beliefs and practices of several religions, primarily the African Yoruba religion with Roman Catholic elements mixed in. Santeria involves a great many rituals and ceremonies, all of which are personalized according to the individual’s destiny. If you are curious to learn more about this religion – and if you want to learn the truth behind the myths – this book is the perfect place for you to begin. Here you will find an overview of the Santeria religion and its history as well as information about its beliefs, practices, and rituals. By the time you finish this book you will have a thorough understanding of what Santeria is and how it is practiced. You may even decide to give it a try for yourself! A Brief Beginners Guide to Santeria History, Practices, Deities, Spells and Rituals
I grew up in Harlem, NY with an Afro-Cuban Grandmother who lived this way of life. So I was privy to this lifestyle early on. I've been to several readers/seers over the years as an adult (falling back on what I knew as a child). After losing contact with my last person a few years ago, I recently decided to start researching for myself to get a fuller & more in-depth understanding of what it is I'm truly seeking. This book is helping me to grasp that understanding or at the very least the beginnings of the understanding I'm seeking.
While the history is probably sound and this is, as stated, a beginner's book, I found it very brief. There are many misspellings throughout the book. There is a section with definitions for some of the words and terms used throughout but other terms that are never explained.
Good book a lot of information to retain, in the beginning to understand the text well. I grew up around santeria as a kid, learned some stuff from the book, its an OK book
Not bad but not amazing either. Had to knock some stars off for the crap chapter talking about Vodou and the bizarre idea that there aren't many books on Lucumi around. Sound advice in terms of looking for a godparent and not rushing into anything though, beware as there are many who will take people for a very expensive ride. Educate yourself as much as possible before committing.