Nkisi Matamba

Characteristics and Attributions

Matamba is the Nkisi of the winds in Bantu tradition, mistress of storms and warrior of the air. She governs the winds, sudden changes, and the transformative power of storms.

Correlation with Yoruba Tradition

In the Bantu tradition, Matamba establishes a direct correspondence with Iansã, maintaining similar characteristics but with specificities specific to Angolan cosmology. This correlation demonstrates the mutual influences between African religious traditions in Brazil.

Sacred Elements and Symbols

Fans, objects that move with the wind, light feathers, flowing fabrics, miniature swords, copper, palm oil, honey, yellow and red candles, and symbols of movement and war.

Traditional Offerings

Acarajé, black-eyed peas, palm oil, honey, yellow fruits, beer, sparkling wine. Offerings are placed in high, well-ventilated places, preferably during windy weather.

Rituals and Ceremonies

Rituals include warrior chants, dances with rapid movements that mimic the wind, offerings at high places, and invocations during storms. Matamba is invoked for courage and change.

Academic References

Robert Slenes, in “Na Senzala, uma Flor” (1999), documents Matamba as Nkisi of the Bantu tradition. Juana Elbein dos Santos, in “Os Nagô e a Morte” (1986), establishes correlations between Matamba and Iansã. Pierre Verger, in “Orixas” (1981), analyzes the correspondences between Bantu and Yoruba traditions.

Legacy and Continuity

The Matamba cult represents the continuity of ancestral Bantu wisdom, preserved through generations in Angolan tradition. This devotion keeps alive the connection with the spiritual and cultural roots of the peoples of Angola and Congo.