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Òsùmàrè (also spelled Osunmare) is a popular Orisha in Yoruba spirituality, widely recognized as the deity of the rainbow, continuity, and the unbroken cycle of life. Among the Yoruba, Òsùmàrè symbolizes the link between heaven and earth, serving as a divine messenger that connects human existence with spiritual forces. His presence is associated with wealth, prosperity, fertility, balance, and the constant renewal of life’s cycles.
Regarded as a serpent-rainbow deity, Òsùmàrè embodies duality: the rising and falling of rain, the unity of male and female, and the circulation of fortune. In Yoruba belief, Òsùmàrè plays an essential role in ensuring balance in creation and continuity in the affairs of humanity.
Characteristics of Òsùmàrè
• Rainbow and Renewal:
Òsùmàrè is primarily associated with the rainbow, symbolizing beauty, connection, and hope after rainfall.
• Wealth and Prosperity:
This Orisha governs material and spiritual wealth, bringing abundance to those who honor him.
• Dual Nature:
Òsùmàrè embodies both masculine and feminine energy, representing wholeness and completeness in creation.
• Continuity and Cycle of Life:
He represents the constant movement of life, ensuring the circulation of energy, fortune, and fertility.
• Serpent Symbolism:
Òsùmàrè is often depicted as a serpent, symbolizing transformation, eternity, and the unending cycle of existence.
Worship and Rituals of Òsùmàrè
Devotees of Òsùmàrè honor him through rituals that focus on continuity, balance, and abundance. Offerings often include colorful items, rainbow-themed decorations, kola nuts, palm oil, and foods associated with wealth. His worship emphasizes gratitude for blessings received and petitions for continued prosperity.
In Yoruba traditional worship, Òsùmàrè is believed to work closely with Olódùmarè and other Orishas, ensuring harmony in the universe. His devotees often seek his favor during ceremonies for fertility, rain, economic prosperity, and spiritual alignment.
Symbols and Sacred Items of Òsùmàrè
• Rainbow –
his primary symbol, representing connection and beauty.
• Serpent –
symbolizing eternal cycles and transformation.
• Colors –
multiple colors of the rainbow, used in his shrines and rituals.
• Palm Oil and Kolanut –
offerings used to honor his spiritual power.
Oríkì Òsùmàrè (Praise Poetry of Òsùmàrè)
This section is dedicated to Oríkì Òsùmàrè.
Eepa osunmare
Osunmare ti gboju olodunmare
Oku ejo n jo were
Aaye ejo n jo were
Oku ejo n jo were
Aaye ejo n jo were
Oku ejo n jo were
Aaye ejo n jo were
Biwo biwo koko ro biwo biwo
Biwo biwo koko ro biwo biw
Kokoro warun warun
Oku ejo n jo were
Aaye ejo n jo were
Biwo biwo koko ro biwo biwo
Biwo biwo koko ro biwo biwo
Kokoro warun warun
A belorun ejo su
A n belorun osunmare
A belorun ejo su
A n belorun osunmare
Conclusion
Òsùmàrè has a unique place in Yoruba spirituality as the divine force of the rainbow, continuity, and renewal.
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