Caribbean Indigenous Religions: Orisha, Spiritual Baptist, Revivalism and Vodun — CSEC Religious Education
These are African-derived religions that developed in the Caribbean from the heritage of enslaved Africans, often blended with Christianity.
Orisha (Shango)
- Has its roots in the Yoruba traditions of West Africa.
- The orishas are divine spirits/deities who act as intermediaries to a supreme God (Olodumare).
- Worship involves drumming, dancing, singing and spirit possession, with offerings to the orishas.
Spiritual Baptist
- A Caribbean religion that blends Christianity with African religious traditions.
- Historically called "Shouters" in Trinidad because of their expressive, vocal worship.
- Features bell-ringing, candles, hand-clapping and "mourning" (spiritual journeys).
Revivalism (Revival / Pukkumina)
- Developed in Jamaica, blending Christianity with African spirituality.
- Known for lively worship with drumming, dancing and spirit possession.
Vodun (Vodou)
- Most associated with Haiti, with roots in West African religion.
- Belief in a supreme God and many spirits (lwa) who are served through ceremonies.
Syncretism
The blending of African and Christian elements in these religions is called syncretism. Common features include drumming, dancing and spirit possession, and a belief in a supreme God served through intermediary spirits.
Exam tips
- These religions come from the heritage of enslaved Africans, blended with Christianity (syncretism).
- Orisha = Yoruba/West African; Vodun = Haiti; Revivalism = Jamaica.
- Spiritual Baptists were known as "Shouters".
- Common features: drumming, dancing and spirit possession.