Ponto de Exu - Exú Veludo
Juliana D Passos
The Mystical Arrival of Exu Veludo
“Ponto de Exu - Exú Veludo” by Juliana D Passos is a song deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, specifically those of Umbanda and Candomblé. The lyrics celebrate the arrival of Exu Veludo, a spiritual entity known for his protective and transformative powers. The repeated line, “Galo cantou na encruzilhada” (The rooster crowed at the crossroads), signifies a moment of spiritual awakening and the presence of Exu, who is often associated with crossroads, a place of decision and change in many African diasporic religions.
Exu Veludo is depicted with his iconic top hat and cape, symbols of his authority and mystique. The song emphasizes his role in overcoming obstacles and defeating enemies, as seen in the lines, “Vencendo as demandas, Desmanchando as bruxarias” (Overcoming challenges, undoing witchcraft). This highlights Exu’s function as a guardian and protector, capable of breaking through barriers, both physical and metaphysical, to safeguard his followers.
The imagery of the rooster crowing at midnight and noon underscores the timeless and ever-present nature of Exu’s power. The rooster, a symbol of vigilance and the herald of new beginnings, combined with the crossroads, creates a powerful metaphor for transformation and protection. Juliana D Passos uses these elements to convey a sense of reverence and trust in Exu Veludo’s abilities to guide and protect, making the song a potent invocation and celebration of this spiritual entity.