Babá Alapalá

Gilberto Gil's song 'Babá Alapalá' is a profound exploration of ancestry, spirituality, and cultural heritage. The lyrics invoke the names of Xangô and Aganju, deities from the Yoruba religion, which is deeply rooted in African traditions and has a significant presence in Brazilian culture. Xangô is the god of thunder, fire, and justice, while Aganju is associated with the earth and volcanoes. The repetition of 'Alapalá' serves as a chant, creating a rhythmic and spiritual atmosphere that underscores the song's themes of reverence and connection to the divine.

The song's narrative structure involves a series of questions about the whereabouts of ancestors, starting from the son asking about his grandfather and moving up the generational ladder to the great-great-grandfather. This progression highlights the importance of lineage and the continuous search for understanding one's roots. It reflects a deep respect for the wisdom and presence of forebears, suggesting that each generation is linked through an unbroken chain of memory and spirit.

The mention of 'egum,' which refers to ancestral spirits, and the imagery of a 'machado alado' (winged axe) and 'machado astral' (astral axe) further enrich the song's spiritual dimension. These metaphors symbolize the power and protection of the ancestors, as well as their elevated status in the spiritual realm. The 'corpo preservado' (preserved body) and 'embalsamado em bálsamo sagrado' (embalmed in sacred balm) evoke the idea of eternal life and the nobility of the ancestors, particularly the 'rei nagô' (Nago king), Xangô. Through these vivid images, Gilberto Gil pays homage to the enduring legacy and spiritual guidance of his ancestors, weaving a tapestry of cultural pride and spiritual depth.