Oxalá
BRAZA
Seeking Guidance and Self-Discovery in 'Oxalá' by BRAZA
In 'Oxalá,' BRAZA delves into themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the quest for personal truth. The song opens with the protagonist climbing a staircase to seek blessings and guidance from Oxalá, a deity in Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda. This act symbolizes a search for spiritual clarity and protection. The lyrics also mention consulting the stars and undergoing a baptism in the sea during a full moon, further emphasizing the connection to natural and cosmic elements in the journey toward self-understanding.
The song explores the internal struggle between moral imperatives and spiritual needs. Phrases like 'Habeas Corpus moral' and 'apneia mental' suggest a conflict between societal expectations and personal mental freedom. The lyrics highlight the importance of self-awareness, stating that only the individual can truly know themselves, their balance, and their truth. The trinity of 'you, your angels, and your demons' encapsulates the idea that self-discovery involves confronting both positive and negative aspects of one's personality.
As the song progresses, it questions the purpose and direction of life, pondering actions and their consequences. The lines 'Lambendo a carne viva com o dedo na ferida' and 'Tacou pedra, finto a pedra. Tacou flores, voltam flores' illustrate the pain and healing process, as well as the principle of reciprocity. The song also touches on the delicate balance between right and wrong, suggesting that what is morally correct may not always feel good, and vice versa. Ultimately, 'Oxalá' emphasizes the importance of faith, not just in a religious sense but as a form of trust and confidence in oneself and the unknown. The song concludes with a message of humility and the belief that self-discovery is a personal responsibility, not something that can be handed down by a savior.