FAQ v1.0

Is Vodou a type of magic?

No. Haitian Vodou is a religion combining African animism with Catholicism. In North America, Higher Magic systems like Hermeticism (Golden Dawn) are incorporated to understand Vodou ritual.

Why do you spell it 'vodou'? I thought it was voodoo?

There is Haitian Vodou and New Orleans Voodoo. Therefore voodoo is the Americanized tradition.

What is the difference between Lwa and Loa?

There isn't. Lwa is just a more Creole form. (Also written L'wha).

Are the lwa deities?

Not at all. In fact it would be blasphemous to consider them deities or gods. Haitian Vodou is monotheistic. One god named Bondye. After the syncretism with Catholicism, he is viewed as Jesus Christ. The lwa are spirits of African tribes. They are treated like saints & worked with via Higher Magick ritual.

What is a veve?

A veve is a sigil like signature associated with a lwa. They are like calling cards that are activated by pouring rum on them.

Can you teach me how to curse people with voodoo dolls?

Contrary to popular belief, voodoo dolls are closer to Hoodoo than Vodou. Roots are more commonly baptised and used rather than poppets. Also "poppets" are not readily used or curses. It is a misunderstanding of the use of pins. Just because it looks like infliction of pain is the intent, it is not usually the case.

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Wonderful post Bianca. :)

Isn't a use of the pins to basically pinpoint an specific spot or area that is to be healed?

Basically, yes. But its not limited to healing. It really depends what's on the point of the pin. Peppermint oil inserted into the head of a poppet could be used to heal a headache for example.

Wonderful post Bianca!
I got a question for you. What good introduction books on Vodou would you recommend?