Cordeiro de Nanã
Dienifer de Oxum
A Celestial Connection: The Spiritual Journey in 'Cordeiro de Nanã'
“Cordeiro de Nanã” by Curimba de ACEUCOM is a song deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian spirituality, particularly the Candomblé religion. The lyrics reflect a profound connection with the divine, invoking the orixás, which are deities in the Candomblé pantheon. The song begins with the narrator looking up to the sky and asking Oxalá, the father of all orixás, for stars to illuminate their path. This request symbolizes a desire for guidance, enlightenment, and protection from the divine realm.
The appearance of an angel who identifies as being from Nanã, another orixá, adds a layer of spiritual depth. Nanã is often associated with wisdom, the earth, and the waters of life and death. The repetition of “Sou de Nanã êua, êua, êua ê” emphasizes a strong identification with this deity, suggesting a sense of belonging and spiritual kinship. The angel’s message serves as a reminder of the ever-present influence and support of the orixás in the believer’s life.
The song’s repetitive structure and chant-like quality are characteristic of traditional Candomblé music, which often uses repetition to induce a trance-like state, facilitating a deeper spiritual connection. The use of simple, yet powerful imagery, such as stars and angels, helps convey the song’s themes of faith, divine guidance, and the interconnectedness of the spiritual and earthly realms. Through its lyrics and musical style, “Cordeiro de Nanã” invites listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the divine forces that guide them.