Orishas of Trinidad

by Monique Joiner Siedlak

Orisha is a colorful and misunderstood religion practiced in Trinidad and Tobago with ties to the Yorba culture of Nigeria. A spiritual tradition with celebrations of food, drums, dance, and prayer, Orisha has millions of followers in the world. Orishas of Trinidad, by Monique Joiner Siedlak, explores this African-routed tradition starting with a look at the roots of this vibrant and colorful tradition and how it evolved to where it is today. This fascinating book covers topics such as the past persecution of Orisha followers, the religion’s deities, practices, ceremonies, and ties to aspects of the Catholic Church. Monique brings light to the fact that there are those who, in their ignorance, still demonize this religion. The truth is, there is nothing demonic about Orisha. While it is a non-Christian religion, it shares the ideas of baptism and one supreme God — Oludumare. Readers will love reading about the Orisha spirits, equated with Christian saints, and seen as messengers between man and Oludumare’s divine Kingdom. For example, Osain, the Yoruba god of herbal medicine, healing, and prophecy associated with St Francis, and Shakpana, a healer of children’s diseases related to St Jerome. Then there is Ogun, the warrior god of iron and steel, associated with St Michael. Order your copy of Orishas of Trinidad by Monique Joiner Siedlak today, and introduce yourself to a rich and fascinating African-rooted tradition called Orisha. You will enjoy reading about this extraordinary tradition.

124 pages, Paperback

Published April 21, 2020

Reviews

[Chrissy Loves Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

[Elle · Rating 3 out of 5]

2h 53m

Chp 1: The History of Trinidad & Tobago
Chp 2: Roots of the Religion
Chp 3: The Shango Religion
Chp 4: Obeah
Chp 5: Spiritual and Healing Practices
Chp 6: Ajaja O Mama Loatie
Chp 7: Olorun
Chp 8: Possession
Chp 9: Serving the Orishas
Chp 10: The Feast Season
Chp 11: Religion Today
Chp 12: Practices
Chp 13: Celebrations
Chp 14: Ritual Music
Chp 15: The Evolution of the Orisha Religion System

[AVALON MILLER · Rating 1 out of 5]

Very superficial

I was excited to get some additional information to supplement my knowledge. This book was a disappointment. The knowledge provided was superficial at best and highlightedthe possibility that the author may not be a practioner or was simply gatekeeping.

[Steven Rivera Camacho · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book. I liked it. I like how the book showed the evolution of religion in the island of Trinidad I would’ve liked more in-depth information about Tobago too. I did like how the author connected how other Caribbean religions has influenced Trinidad religion.

[Charles · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting to hear of a connection to Scottish settlers. Disappointed by multiple mispronunciation errors.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction to the Orisha. One or two things needed fact checking but it was good nevertheless.

[Terissa Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative