Paths of Elegua: The Multiple Avatars of the Orisha Guardian

Known for its diversity, Elegua is presented as the divine messenger, the arbiter of destinies and the protector of the paths. This tour highlights the various paths of Elegua, from the cunning Laroye to the intuitive Alakentu, each with their own distinctive stories, lessons, and powers.

Index

What are the 21 roads of Elegua?

Elegua Laroye: Distinctive for his mischievous and communicative nature.
Eleggua Afra (Eshu Afra): Linked to health and defense against diseases.
Agbanukue: Celebrated as the custodian of the Ilé of Osha.
Eleggua Agongo Ogo: Notable for its defensive and aggressive stance.
Allah Ilú (Eshu Allah Le Ilú): An Elegua endowed with profound wisdom and divination abilities.
Allah Lu Banshe: It influences destiny and dreams.
Elegua Akarajeu: Faithful protector and ally of Oya.
Choose Baralayiki: Master of the unexpected, he brings twists of fortune.
Aselu: Acts at the service of the older Orishas.
Eleggua Alaguana (Eshu Alaguana): Associated with sorcery and commerce.
Choose Aganika: Known for his malevolent propensity.
Awo Bara: The protector of the Babalawo's abode.
Elebara Abalonke: Called the Eshu of death.
Choose Aroni: Magic and mysticism in the depths of the forest.
Elegua Agrillelu: Guardian of Olófin.
Agogo: Regulator of the day and night cycle.
Choose Alakentu: Ambassador of sensuality and companion of Oshún.
Elegua Aye: Symbolized by a sea snail, advocate of justice.
Choose Eshu Bi: A quarrelsome and protective warrior in the jungles.
Elegua Odara: Facilitator of changes and new directions.
Kaminalowa: Spiritual guide of souls, facilitates vital transitions.

Each Elegua path opens a portal to different dimensions of the human and spiritual experience, offering believers divine guidance to navigate life's challenges with wisdom, courage, and compassion. The veneration of this deity in its various ways reflects the richness and complexity of Yoruba religious practice, inviting a continuous journey of discovery, protection and blessings.

Get to know Elegua: Its symbolism, rituals and meaning in our complete guide.

Deep Exploration of the Paths of Eleguá

Entering the vast universe of Eleguá, each path reveals a unique facet of this orisha, unraveling stories, symbolism and practices that resonate with the spirituality and daily lives of its devotees. Next, we explore in detail each of the previously selected paths, starting with Eleguá Laroye and continuing with other notable avatars.

Elegua Laroye

Eleguá Laroye is distinguished by his lively and communicative spirit, an aspect of Eleguá that personifies the joy of life and childlike cunning. This path invites us to remember the importance of adaptability, effective communication and a sense of humor in our lives.

A central figure in numerous anecdotes, Eleguá Laroye is famous for his pranks and his ability to teach valuable lessons through direct experience. His presence is said to be especially strong at crossroads, where he can offer guidance and protection to travelers and those facing important decisions.

Predominantly associated with the colors red and black, Eleguá Laroye symbolizes the opening of paths and overcoming obstacles. His favorite offerings include candy, toys, and any object that denotes joy and fun, reflecting his playful nature and his love for life's simple pleasures.

Devotion to Eleguá Laroye underscores the value of curiosity, openness to learning, and the importance of maintaining a connection with our inner child, essential aspects to successfully navigate the challenges of existence.

Eleggua Afra (Eshu Afra)

Elegua Afra, an arará manifestation of Elegua, is associated with protection against diseases and epidemics. This path highlights the importance of health and spiritual cleansing, standing out as a healer among the paths of Elegua.

Elegua Afra is Asojano's companion, dedicated to the cure of contagious diseases such as measles and smallpox. Together, his presence is a constant in hospitals and healing places, protecting the sick and promoting recovery.

Represented with black and white colors, it symbolizes the duality of life and death, illness and health. He prefers offerings of red wine, symbolizing blood and life, differentiating himself from other manifestations of Elegua that accept brandy or palm wine.

Agbanukue

Known as the "Messiah of Ifa" and the "prince of the Eshu", Agbanukué stands out as guardian of the Ilé of Osha, protecting the religious houses with his vigilance and wisdom.

Born to the Odu of Ifa Baba Ejiogbe, Agbanukué is revered for his ability to protect religious houses from evil intentions, being a crucial ally for the Babalawos and practitioners of the religion.

This path is associated with protection and revealing hidden secrets. He carries an arrow on his forehead, symbolizing his role as a guardian and his ability to point toward truth and ward off danger.

Elegua Agongo Ogo

Elegua Agongo Ogo, recognized for its defensive and aggressive posture, symbolizes protection against adversity and attacks. This path brings out strength and courage, serving as a fierce guardian to those under its care.

It is said that Agongo Ogo never backs down from a challenge, using his great club to defend his devotees from any danger. His presence is especially invoked in situations where protection is vital, guaranteeing security and strength in the face of adversity.

The club carried by Agongo Ogo is not only a weapon, but also a symbol of determination and the ability to face and overcome obstacles. His offerings usually include elements that reinforce bravery and protection, such as metal objects and firm rocks.

Allah Ilú (Eshu Allah Le Ilú)

Alá Ilú, known as Eshu Alá Le Ilú, represents ancestral wisdom and divination, an orisha of great hierarchy who advises and guides through the mysteries of life. This path emphasizes respect for knowledge and the importance of seeking understanding and clarity.

It is said that Allah Ilú has deep knowledge of the secrets of the universe, granted directly by Olodumare. His ability to divine the future and reveal hidden truths makes him an essential consultant for those seeking direction and understanding in their lives.

This path is associated with divination instruments, such as the opelé and Ifá ikines, and is usually represented with a divination staff, symbolizing its connection with divine wisdom. Offerings to Allah Ilú include sacred herbs, books or manuscripts, and water, which he purifies and carries his blessings.

Allah Lu Banshe

Allah Lu Banshe focuses on power over destiny and dreams, influencing all plans and actions. This Eleguá path reminds us of the interconnection between our decisions and the universe, and how our choices can align with our destiny.

Narratives about Allah Lu Banshé describe him as a guardian of destiny, one who knows the paths that each person must take to achieve their true purpose. He is revered for his ability to offer wise advice and for his influence at critical moments in life.

Often depicted alongside symbols of paths and crossroads, their offerings include items that symbolize guidance and clarity, such as candles to illuminate the path and mirrors to reflect the truth. Allah Lu Banshé especially appreciates offerings that promote introspection and personal understanding, such as apples, guavas, and sweet and sour sweets, along with tobacco and cane liquor to facilitate spiritual communication.

Elegua Akarajéu

Elegua Akarajéu, the brave friend and protector, is characterized by his ability to intercept and return negative energies, as symbolized in the legend of capturing and returning lightning. This path stands out for its boldness and its ability to protect its devotees from external harm.

Akarajéu is described as the hero who, during a conflict between Oya and Shangó, caught a lightning bolt thrown by Shangó and returned it, thus protecting his followers and demonstrating his immense power and bravery. His action not only saved those involved but also impressed the orishas, establishing his reputation as a formidable protector.

Elegua Akarajéu is frequently associated with storm elements, such as lightning and thunder, symbolizing his connection with the forces of nature and his ability to handle them. Their offerings include objects that represent power and protection, such as lightning stones and amulets. In addition, he can be offered tobacco and brandy, elements that facilitate communication with the spiritual world and reinforce his role as guardian.

Elegua Baralayiki

Elegua Baralayiki is characterized by its turbulent and festive nature, personifying the unpredictability of life and the importance of adapting to unexpected changes. This path teaches us to accept surprises and twists of fate with grace and resilience.

Baralayiki is known for its sudden appearances and disappearances, reminding us that life is full of surprises and that we must be prepared for any eventuality. His stories often involve mischief that results in valuable lessons about accepting and enjoying the mysteries of existence.

Represented by the duality of colors and elements that symbolize chaos and harmony, Baralayiki favors offerings that reflect the diversity of life, such as varieties of food and drink. Its focus is on celebrating life in all its forms, promoting an attitude of openness and enjoyment of the unknown.

Elegua Aselu (Eshu Aselu)

Elegua Aselu stands out as the servant of the older Orishas, reflecting humility, service and protection. This path emphasizes the importance of respect and devotion towards elders and deities.

History and Legends:
Aselu is known for his tireless work in the service of the Orishas, demonstrating that true strength lies in the ability to serve and protect. His energy is invoked to maintain harmony and order within religious houses and among practitioners.

Characteristics and Symbolism:
Aselu attributes include palm oil and honey, which are offered to sweeten relationships and promote peace. His clothing and tools are often modest, symbolizing his focus on service over power or authority.

Elegua Alaguana

Elegua Alaguana is distinguished by his mastery over commerce and his ability as an exceptional magician, especially in the management and protection of the Egungun (spirits of the ancestors). This path emphasizes the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, and its influence on everyday affairs.

It is narrated that Alaguana has the power to navigate between worlds, facilitating communication between the living and the dead. His presence is crucial in rituals involving the ancestors, ensuring that the Egungun are properly honored and that their wisdom is accessible to future generations.

Symbolized by the guava stick doodle, an object that represents his ability to traverse and unite different realms. Offerings for Alaguana include elements of nature and objects that have deep spiritual meaning, such as seeds, soil, and river water, symbolizing life, death, and renewal.

Eleggua Aganika

Eleggua Aganika is known for his cunning and often malicious nature, representing the trials and difficulties that must be overcome in life. This path teaches about the duality of existence and the need to always be prepared to face unexpected challenges.

Tradition has it that Aganika is the master of deception, capable of testing the faith and strength of individuals through complex situations. His lessons, although harsh, are valuable for personal and spiritual growth, teaching his followers to be resilient and wise.

Symbols associated with Aganika include objects that embody cunning and survival, such as the knife and the net. The offerings often consist of spicy foods and strong drinks, reflecting their intense and challenging nature.

Awó Bara

Awó Bara, the fortune teller and protector of the Babalawo house, is revered for his profound wisdom and his ability to strengthen the ties between humans and the Orishas. This path highlights the importance of spiritual knowledge and divine guidance in everyday life.

Awó Bara is said to have incomparable knowledge of the secrets of Ifá, offering advice and predictions that guide people towards their destiny. His role is fundamental in the preservation and transmission of ancestral teachings, ensuring that the wisdom of Ifá continues to guide future generations.

Depicted with the opelé and the Ifá board, essential tools for divination, Awó Bara emphasizes the connection with ancestral knowledge. Offerings typically include kola nuts, honey, and water, symbolizing the purity, sweetness, and clarity needed to interpret divine messages correctly.

Elebara Abalonke

Elebara Abalonke, known as the "Eshu of death", represents the transition and guidance of souls to the afterlife. This path emphasizes the importance of respecting the cycle of life and death and the connection with ancestors.

Stories are attributed to him where he acts as the messenger between the world of the living and the world of the dead, facilitating communication with ancestors and ensuring that souls find their way after death. His presence is especially significant in funeral rituals and ceremonies dedicated to honoring those who have passed away.

Elebara Abalonke is associated with symbols of transition, such as the pumpkin (representing the world) and the staff (symbolizing support on the journey). Offerings to this path usually include elements that facilitate passage and communication between worlds, such as candles, water and food that were dear to the ancestors, reinforcing the bond between generations.

Elegua Aroni

Elegua Aroni, a powerful witch and healer who resides in the forests, embodies the deep knowledge of the secrets of nature and medicinal herbs. This path highlights the connection with the natural environment and the ability to heal.

Aroni is said to have an exceptional understanding of the healing properties of plants and is able to cure illnesses and ailments using his ancient wisdom. His figure is often invoked by those seeking natural remedies and protection against illness.

Represented by forest elements, such as sticks, leaves, and dirt, Elegua Aroni favors offerings that reflect his mastery over healing and knowledge of nature. Herbs, seeds and spring water are commonly offered to honor him, symbolizing health and well-being.

Elegua Agrillelu

Elegua Agrillelu is the guardian and protector of Olófin, symbolizing loyalty and commitment to protecting the most sacred spiritual truths. This path reflects devotion and service to the divine, maintaining order and sanctity of spiritual spaces.

Agrillelu is renowned for his tireless vigilance and his role as a defender of the divine principles established by Olófin. His dedication is an example of the importance of faith and respect for the spiritual laws that govern the universe.

This path is associated with objects that represent protection and holiness, such as sacred amulets and talismans. Offerings to Agrillelu include doves, which symbolize peace and purity, and water, which cleanses and renews spiritual energy.

Elegua agogo

Elegua Agogo stands out for its control over time and cycles, symbolizing constant change and transition. This path reminds us of the importance of adaptability and the recognition that each moment has its own purpose and power.

Agogo is said to be able to speed up or slow down the flow of time for mortals, teaching lessons about patience and timing. His influence extends to ensuring that events occur at the divinely appointed time, maintaining cosmic balance.

Symbolized by the bell tower and the bells (agogo), which are used to mark the passage of time and call attention to what is imminent. Offerings to Elegua Agogo include stopped clocks or bells, which represent the desire to better understand and use time to our advantage. Candles and water are also offered to you, symbolizing light and fluidity as essential elements in navigating the cycles of life.

Elegua Alakentu

Elegua Alakentu, closely linked to Oshún, symbolizes sensuality, fertility and love. This path stands out for its influence on matters of the heart and personal harmony.

Alakentu is Oshún's faithful companion, working together to promote beauty, love and prosperity. His presence is invoked in love and fertility rituals, strengthening emotional and family ties.

It is associated with sweetness and attraction, using offerings of honey, cinnamon and eggs to attract love and harmony. Its colors, yellow and gold, reflect the light of the sun and the richness of life.

Eleggua Aye

Elegua Aye, represented in a sea snail, is the custodian of justice and moral balance. This path teaches us the importance of honesty and integrity, always acting fairly.

Aye collaborates closely with Olokun, the orisha of the deep sea, revealing hidden secrets and promoting justice. Her connection to the sea grants her access to deep truths and the power to cleanse the soul.

The snail, its main symbol, represents the connection with the vast emotional and spiritual world hidden beneath the surface. Offerings to Aye include sea water and objects that come from the ocean, symbolizing cleansing and spiritual renewal.

Elegua Eshu Bi

Elegua Eshu Bi, the quarrelsome and protective warrior who resides in the mountains, personifies tenacious defense and justice for those under his guard. His presence is a reminder of fierce protection against adversity and evil.

It is said that Eshu Bi, with his combative nature, protects corners and roads, confronting any entity that seeks to harm his charges. Legends of him often reveal how his intervention has saved communities and devotees from imminent dangers.

Characterized by his preference for wild areas and his affinity with nature, Eshu Bi takes pleasure in offerings left at crossroads or in the mountains, such as tobacco, brandy, and small animals. His symbols include sharp and natural objects, highlighting his connection to the land and his readiness for battle.

Eleggua Odara

Elegua Odara, known as the facilitator of change and new directions, represents the capacity for transformation and renewal. This path encourages its followers to embrace change as an opportunity for personal growth and evolution.

Odara is revered for his ability to open new paths and close cycles that no longer serve, allowing individuals to move towards their true destiny. His legends often illustrate how obstacles can become doors to new experiences and wisdom.

Symbolized by the door that opens to multiple paths, Odara favors offerings that symbolize the beginning and the end, such as ancient keys or seeds ready to germinate. These elements emphasize the importance of being open to possibilities and prepared for the changes that life presents.

Eleggua Kaminalowa

Eleggua Kaminalowa is the guardian of spiritual paths, facilitating the transition of souls and ensuring that each being finds its place in the afterlife. This path emphasizes compassion and care for those who have departed.

Kaminalowa is said to possess the ability to see the thread of every life, guiding lost souls to the light. Her presence is especially requested in funeral rituals and ceremonies dedicated to honoring ancestors, where her guidance is indispensable.

Symbols associated with Kaminalowa include stone paths and water, representing life's journey towards eternity. The offerings are usually natural elements such as flowers, water and stones, which symbolize respect and love towards the souls it guides.

Other paths, facets or avatars of the Orisha Elegua

Añaki or Añagui: Considered the mother of all Eleguas, she is the guardian of Odduduwa and its secret. She stands out for her bravery and healing ability, preferring to live in the forest and representing victory and determination.
Dance: It acts as a messenger and intermediary, facilitating communication and development within the houses of Osha. He is identified by his ability to receive, translate and transfer the ebboses to their final destination.
Akeru: Its main function is to transfer messages and objects from one place to another, fulfilling an essential role in communication and exchange within religious practice.
Akesan: This path belongs to the land of Oyó and is characterized by its importance within the Yoruba tradition, symbolizing connection and tradition.
Aphrodite: Originally from the kingdom of Arará, he specializes in service to Ifá, demonstrating the interconnection between different practices and traditions within the Yoruba religion.
Abanunkue: He functions as the guardian or protector of the house, living inside a clay pot and belonging to the land of Arará. His presence ensures protection and security for the home and its inhabitants.
Aberu: This path is responsible for receiving the offerings or sacrifices, playing a crucial role in the practice of Santeria by ensuring that the offerings are correctly delivered and received by the orishas.
Agomeyo: Belonging to the land of Oyó, this path highlights the cultural and spiritual richness of this region, reflecting the diversity within the practice of Santeria.
Agongo Olo Onya: It is known for its residence on the sides of the road, symbolizing the constant and protective presence of Elegua in all of life's journeys and transitions.
Eshu Eleggua Ananaki: Related to loneliness and soul alone, this path reflects moments of sadness and depression, as well as the importance of reflection and self-knowledge.
Awala Boma: Known as "he who descended like a star to the ceiba tree," he handles the odus of itá imale during the consecration of new initiates, symbolizing illumination and spiritual guidance.
Bara Dage (Eshu Bara Dage): It works with snakes and is associated with protection in the fields and savanna, being a faithful companion of Oggún and symbolizing transformation and renewal.
Elewa Beleke: Described as a mischievous and restless child, this path emphasizes the importance of guarding and protection, as well as deep knowledge of herbs and their medicinal use.
Batye: It does not recognize obstacles and specializes in overcoming any type of damage or setback, highlighting resilience and the ability to adapt.
Elegba Biri: It has quarrelsome and evil characteristics, enjoying causing accidents and challenges, especially around corners. It symbolizes testing and protection against adversity.
Elegua Barakikeño (Eshu Barakikeño): Mischievous child with a tendency to do mischief, emphasizing the need to be alert and protected against mischief and unexpected challenges.
Winery: He acts as Eggun's guardian and companion, showing the interconnection between the living and the ancestors and ensuring that the respect and memory of those who have passed on to the next world is maintained.
Choose Diki: It fosters bonds and friendships, inspiring unity and empathy between people. Their presence encourages social gatherings and the formation of community bonds.
I'll give: It functions as a messenger, facilitating the reception of blessings sent by Olodumare to humans and orishas, reinforcing divine connection and spiritual communication.
Elegua Elegbara (Eshu Elegbara): Responsible for monitoring and controlling the ebbo and the sacrifices, ensuring that the messages and offerings reach their desired destination and act for the benefit of the community.
Elufé: It represents one of the oldest paths in Elegua, standing out for its wisdom and its deep connection with the oldest and most sacred traditions of the Yoruba religion.
Elephant: This path is distinguished as one of the oldest existing paths, emphasizing the importance of experience and tradition in religious practice.
Echenike: A close friend of Osayín, this path delights in the use of the hookah filled with aromatic herbs, symbolizing the deep connection with nature and herbal knowledge.
Ekuboro: It navigates between life and death, offering unique perspectives on the cycle of life and the inevitability of death, reminding us of the importance of living with purpose and respect.
Ekiley: Wise and knowledgeable, this path stands out as an excellent fortune teller and guide for those in search of knowledge and deep understanding about their lives and destinies.
Igide (Eshu Igide): He specializes in opening paths in the thick of the mountains and in making witchcraft, especially moorings, demonstrating the interaction between nature, knowledge and spiritual practice.
gogo: He is dedicated to working with justice, taking care of payments and debt collections between humans and orishas, underlining the importance of responsibility and righteousness.
Elewa Isheri: It bestows ashé on herbs during the dew of dawn, highlighting the optimal time to collect plants for spiritual and medicinal use, underscoring the connection between time, nature and spirituality.
Idea: It is made with a mount that includes jet, ivory and other elements, symbolizing protection, wisdom and connection with the orishas through sacred objects.
Ijelu (Eshu Ijelu): Related to music and drums, this path emphasizes joy, sadness and the release of tension through music, facilitating communication with deities.
Elegguá Lode (Eshu Lode): Considered an Eshu of the streets and the outside world, this path symbolizes adaptability, protection and hunting, showing the importance of survival and independence.
Elewa Loboni: Messenger of Oshún, he lives in the river and is always attentive to his surroundings, reminding us of the importance of active listening and effective communication in our relationships.
Eleggua Mansaquio (Eshu Mansaquio): Identified with the Holy Child of resolution, this path helps make difficult decisions, underscoring wisdom, hard work and divine guidance in problem solving.
Elegba Male: It teaches Orunmila about the corners, symbolizing guidance, knowledge and protection on the paths of life.
Elegbara Okada: He prefers to live in garbage dumps, symbolizing transformation, renewal and the importance of clearing out the old to make room for the new.
Choose Opin: With power over the territorial, this path establishes limits and borders, teaching us about the importance of personal and community spaces in our lives.
Ogong: It lives mounted on cemetery soil, symbolizing the connection with ancestors and the importance of remembering and honoring those who have passed on to the afterlife.
Eleggua Asokere: Talking mat, symbolizing wisdom, reflection and the importance of clear and precise communication.
Wara (Eshu Wara): It is in charge of personal relationships and family structure, emphasizing harmony, understanding and care in interpersonal relationships.

For those seeking to deepen their spiritual connection through prayer, the Prayer to Elegua It stands out as a powerful form of communication with the Orisha of paths and opportunities. Discover how this prayer can strengthen your relationship with Elegua and open new paths in your life

Final Thoughts: A Continuing Journey of Faith and Discovery

The figure of Elegua, at the intersection of the divine and the earthly, emerges as a fundamental pillar in the Yoruba worldview, guiding believers through the complexity of life with wisdom and compassion. The 21 paths of Elegua, and the many more that extend beyond, embody the diversity of human experiences, from moments of joy and prosperity to inevitable challenges and adversities.

To honor Elegua through rituals, offerings and prayers is to participate in a sacred dialogue with the divine, a practice that enriches the lives of devotees with balance and harmony. This spiritual journey is not only an exploration of faith, but also a journey toward self-knowledge and personal transformation, marked by Elegua's comforting presence every step of the way.

Devotion to Elegua teaches us that every decision opens new routes of possibility, and that at the intersection of the known and the unknown lies the promise of growth and renewal. Thus, the study of the paths of Elegua transcends the spiritual sphere, reflecting our own journey through life, illuminated by the wisdom and love of this Orisha.

Finally, the paths of Elegua invite us to fully embrace the multiplicity of our existence, facing each day with the hope and courage of those who understand that behind every challenge there is an opportunity for blessing, and that each end is simply the threshold. of a new beginning. In this sense, the exploration of the paths of Elegua is more than a religious practice; It is an affirmation of the rich tapestry of life, woven with threads of faith, diversity and unity.