Ògún: The Lord of Iron, War and Technology
Main Domain
Sacred Symbols
Colors and Day
Greeting
1. Introduction: The Principle of Action and Progress
Ògún is the Orisha who represents brute strength, determination, and the human capacity to shape the world. He is the lord of iron (irin) and, by extension, of everything made with it: the knife that sacrifices, the hoe that cultivates, the weapon that defends, and the technology that builds. Ògún is the pioneer, the one who blazes trails in the forest with his machete, symbolizing progress and civilization advancing over the wild.
2. Fundamental Myths (Itan)
The most important myth of Ògún tells how he was the first Orisha to descend to Earth. The path between Orun (heaven) and Aiye (earth) was an impenetrable forest. All the Orishas tried to pass, but failed. Ògún, with his iron machete, opened a path so that they could all pass. For this act, he was acclaimed "Osin Imolè" (The first among the Orishas) and earned the right to receive the first offerings in many rituals, right after Exu.
3. Domains and Symbols
His domain is the railroads, machine shops, barracks, and any place where iron and technology are present. His symbols are iron tools (anvil, hammer, knife), the iron chain, and the Mariwô (a shredded palm leaf), which he uses to dress and mark his sacred territories. His color is dark blue, the color of tempered steel.
4. Archetype and Personality
Ogum's children are direct, determined, impatient, and extremely hard-working. They don't like to beat around the bush and solve their problems directly, which can sometimes be mistaken for aggression. They are protective, loyal to friends, but ruthless with enemies. They have a strong, explosive temperament, but they calm down just as quickly. They are natural leaders in crisis situations.
5. Syncretism and Qualities (Paths)
In most Brazilian states, Ogum has been syncretized with Saint George, due to his warrior image. His qualities are many and represent different aspects of his energy: Ògún Onirè (the hunter and king of the city of Ire), Ògún Wari (linked to metallurgy and fire), Ògún Xoroquê (a fearsome quality, linked to Exu, representing the uncontrollable fury of war), among many others.
