Casa de Guerreiro
Carlos Buby
A Spiritual Journey in the House of the Warrior
Carlos Buby's song 'Casa de Guerreiro' is a profound homage to Ogum, a revered deity in Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda. Ogum is known as the god of war, iron, and labor, often invoked for protection and strength. The song's repetitive invocation of Ogum's name underscores the deep respect and reliance on this powerful figure. The lyrics reflect a pilgrimage to a sacred space, a 'house of the warrior,' where the singer has come to pray and seek blessings for the sick, guided by faith in Obatalá, another significant deity representing purity and wisdom.
The song also highlights the teachings of 'Preto Velho,' a spirit of an old African slave who is venerated in these religious traditions for his wisdom and kindness. The 'cartilha de Aruanda' refers to the spiritual lessons from the ancestral homeland, Aruanda, a mythical place of peace and enlightenment. The mention of Ogum not forgetting 'como vencer a demanda' (how to overcome challenges) emphasizes the deity's role in providing guidance and strength to face life's battles.
The imagery of sadness being driven away by the warrior's sword and the light of dawn breaking in the 'terreiro' (sacred ground) symbolizes hope and renewal. The repetition of 'Ogum, meu pai' (Ogum, my father) and 'Ogunhê' (a salutation to Ogum) reinforces the personal and communal connection to the deity, invoking his presence and blessings. The song is a powerful expression of faith, resilience, and the enduring hope that comes from spiritual devotion and the protection of the warrior god, Ogum.