Oya, among other things, is the Yoruba Orisha who is the keeper of the gates of cemeteries, assisting those making the transition across to the Unerworld, and giving guidance on the ghost roads. Her powers over transformation and change can support us in our lives, assisting us as we move forward toward achieving that which is necessary for our betterment, but nonetheless painful, and that which is more difficult to get through. Some see Her as the Crone in the trilogy which includes Her younger sisters, Yemaya and Oshun.
I include Oya here, during Hallowstide because of Her relationship to cemeteries, the resting places of the dead, and Her abilities to hold back or call forth the Spirits of the dead. Oya is one of the Queens of the Dead. She does not live in the cemeteries, but at the gates. There is much more to Her than what I have written here, Oya is a fascinating and complex Orisha.
Blessing dark and deep!
this is so very special.....thanks, Oma Linda
ReplyDeletePrayer to Oya
ReplyDeleteThe winds of change are blowing. Storms are building in the sky.
I step outside to feel the breeze and listen to the distant thunder.
It is you, Goddess Oya, who has come once again to make me aware
that changes in my life are near.
But change is never easy, so I hesitate. The fear inside is trapping me in this state
of anguish and sorrow that I live with each day, yet I hesitate.
Then the winds blow stronger and a soft voice whispers in my ear "you don't have to live like this! You have the power to change your fate. You need to accept that it is time
to reclaim your life and to live it!".
A tear runs down my face and a smile forms on my lips. I recognize your haunting voice, Oya. The One of wisdom, strength and truth I have heard so many times before. I thank you for reminding me once again that change is necessary, to be embraced and not feared.