Yemọja: The Great Mother of Salt Waters and All Heads
Main Domain
Sacred Symbols
Colors and Day
Greeting
1. Introduction: The Principle of Universal Motherhood
Yemoja is the great mother, the queen of all salt waters. If Ogum represents the body of the world and Oshun the blood, Yemoja is the amniotic fluid that generates and nourishes all life. She is the protector of the family, of fishermen, and, above all, the mistress of all heads (Ori), for she is the one who shapes the heads of children in the womb, defining part of their destiny. She is the archetype of the nurturing mother, welcoming, but also stern when necessary.
2. Fundamental Myths (Itan)
An Itan tells of Yemoja having so many children that her breasts grew enormously from breastfeeding, becoming a symbol of universal nourishment. Tired, she fled and, when pursued, fell backward. From her split breasts sprang two great rivers that formed the oceans, and from her womb were born many of the Orishas, including Xango and Oxóssi, cementing her as the mother of all.
3. Domains and Symbols
Her domain is the seas and oceans. Her symbols are the silver Abebé (different from Oshun's golden one), which represents the moon and the vastness of the sea, and silver tools reminiscent of a queen's utensils. Her colors are white, silver, and all shades of sea blue and green.
4. Archetype and Personality
Yemanjá's daughters are maternal, protective, generous, and enjoy caring for everyone around them. They are serious, imposing, and dislike being contradicted. They can be very stubborn and resentful when hurt. They enjoy luxury, order, and having their family together. They are excellent stewards of the home and family.
5. Syncretism and Qualities (Paths)
In Brazil, she was syncretized with Our Lady of Navigators and Our Lady of Glory. Her qualities reflect different aspects of the sea: Yemoja Asessu (the one who lives in the murky waters where the river meets the sea, older and more severe), Yemoja Ogunté (the warrior who lives near the beaches, wife of Ogum), and Yemoja Sobá (linked to the foam of the sea, younger and more vain).