1. Introduction: The Principle of Loyalty and Sacrifice

Obà is the Orisha of self-sacrificing love, extreme loyalty, and feminine strength that rivals masculine strength. She is one of Xango's wives, and her story is one of the most dramatic in the pantheon, teaching the consequences of envy, rivalry, and unrequited love. She represents the strength contained in turbulent waters and whirlpools.

2. Fundamental Myths (Itan)

Her best-known myth recounts her rivalry with Oshun for the love of Xango. Oshun cunningly tricks Obà, telling her that the secret to securing Xango's love was to cut off her own ear and serve it in his food. Obà, in her blind love, does just that. When Xango discovers the ear on her plate, she is horrified and disgusted, banishing Obà from her life. Devastated, Obà weeps so much that her tears create a river, and she becomes the Orisha of turbulent waters, hiding her face and her severed ear with a shield.

3. Domains and Symbols

Her domain is turbulent waters, rivers that meet with force, and whirlpools. Her symbols are the copper shield (to defend herself and hide her wound) and the Ofá (bow and arrow), as she is also a skilled hunter. Her main color is coral red or brown.

4. Archetype and Personality

Obà's daughters are strong, hard-working, objective, and extremely loyal women. They are very radical in their positions and have difficulty forgiving. They dedicate themselves body and soul to their relationships and family, often sacrificing themselves excessively. They can be very jealous and possessive. They prefer the company of men and do not do well in environments with a strong female presence, due to their archetypal rivalry.

5. Syncretism and Qualities (Paths)

In Brazil, she has been syncretized with Saint Martha (for her strength in taming the dragon) or Joan of Arc (for her warrior nature). Obà possesses no distinct qualities. Her story and energy are so striking and specific that she is worshipped as a single deity, the warrior queen whose power is born of pain and sacrifice.