Ponto de Bejada - Papai Ogum Mandou / Papai Me Solte Um Balão

Juliana D Passos' song "Ponto de Bejada - Papai Ogum Mandou / Papai Me Solte Um Balão" is a vibrant and spiritually rich piece that draws from Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, particularly Candomblé and Umbanda. The song is a celebration of innocence, joy, and the divine protection offered by Ogum, a powerful orixá (deity) in these religions. Ogum is often associated with war, iron, and labor, but here, he takes on a more nurturing role, commanding the children to play and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

The repetition of the phrase "Papai Ogum mandou as crianças brincar" (Father Ogum commanded the children to play) emphasizes the importance of play and joy in the spiritual and physical well-being of children. The imagery of children playing with seashells by the sea, as mentioned in "Olha brinca, Bejada, com as conchinhas do mar," evokes a sense of innocence and connection to nature. This connection is a common theme in Afro-Brazilian spirituality, where nature is seen as a manifestation of the divine.

The second part of the song, "Papai me solte um balão," shifts the focus to a more celestial realm, asking for a balloon to be released with all the children in heaven. This imagery suggests a bridge between the earthly and the heavenly, a common motif in spiritual songs that seek to connect the material world with the divine. The repeated mention of sweets in the garden, "Tem doce mamãe, tem doce lá no jardim," adds a layer of sweetness and abundance, symbolizing the rewards and joys that await in the spiritual realm. Overall, the song is a beautiful blend of cultural, spiritual, and emotional elements, celebrating the joy of childhood under the watchful eye of a protective deity.