Santería: The Beliefs and Rituals of a Growing Religion – Miguel A. De La Torre – 1999
What the Book Explores
Miguel A. De La Torre’s Santería: The Beliefs and Rituals of a Growing Religion provides a comprehensive overview of the Santería religion, also known as Lucumí. The work delves into the historical origins of the faith, tracing its roots to the Yoruba people of West Africa and its subsequent development through the transatlantic slave trade in Cuba. De La Torre meticulously examines the core beliefs of Santería, including its pantheon of Orishas (deities), the concept of aché (divine life force), and the significance of ancestor veneration. A substantial portion of the book is dedicated to detailing the ritual practices of Santería, covering initiation ceremonies, divination methods, animal sacrifice, and healing practices. The author also addresses the ways in which Santería has adapted and evolved in modern contexts, particularly within the United States, and explores the ethical considerations surrounding some of its practices.
Historical / Cultural Context
Santería emerged as a syncretic religion amongst enslaved Yoruba people in Cuba during the 19th century. Facing suppression of their traditional beliefs by colonial authorities, practitioners cleverly masked Yoruba deities behind the facade of Catholic saints – a practice known as syncretism. This allowed them to continue their religious observances while outwardly appearing to adhere to the dominant Catholic faith. De La Torre’s book is crucial for understanding the resilience of African religious traditions in the face of oppression and the creative ways in which enslaved people maintained their cultural identity. Published in 1999, the work benefits from decades of scholarly research on Afro-Cuban religions and offers a nuanced perspective on a faith often misrepresented in popular culture. The book arose within a period of increasing academic interest in diaspora religions and a growing awareness of the contributions of African cultures to the Americas.
Who This Book Is For
This book is geared toward a broad audience, including students of religion, scholars of African and Afro-Caribbean cultures, and anyone interested in learning more about Santería. De La Torre’s writing is accessible to readers without prior knowledge of the subject, while still maintaining academic rigor. It’s particularly valuable for individuals seeking a balanced and informed perspective on a religion that often faces misunderstanding or sensationalism. The book serves as a solid foundation for further research and exploration of related topics.
Further Reading
- Oshun: The Divine Feminine by Maria Rodriguez – Explores a specific Orisha within the Santería pantheon.
- Santería Aesthetics in Contemporary Cuba by Judith Bettelheim – Focuses on the artistic and cultural expressions of Santería.
- Afro-Cuban Religions by Joseph M. Murphy and Margaret E. Crahan – A broader overview of Afro-Cuban religious traditions, including Santería.
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