Ponto de Oxumarê - Choveu, Choveu
Juliana D Passos
The Divine Dance of Rain and Renewal in 'Ponto de Oxumarê - Choveu, Choveu'
Juliana D Passos' song 'Ponto de Oxumarê - Choveu, Choveu' is a beautiful homage to the Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, particularly Candomblé. The lyrics tell a story of a relentless seven-day rain that floods everything, symbolizing a period of emotional or spiritual turmoil. The rain is described as the tears of Oxalá, a major deity in Candomblé, representing purity and creation. This deluge prompts the singer to seek guidance from Babalaô (a priest) and the Orixás (deities) to find a solution to end the rain.
The song's narrative takes a turn when the singer consults the Ifá divination system, a traditional Yoruba practice, and discovers that a beautiful offering must be made to Oxumarê, the deity associated with rainbows, transformation, and renewal. The offering includes an alguidar (a clay bowl) filled with cowries and adorned with ribbons, which is to be placed at a waterfall. This act of devotion and respect towards Oxumarê is a plea for intervention and balance.
As the offering is made, the rain ceases, and the sun shines brightly, revealing a radiant rainbow in the sky. This rainbow signifies the presence and blessing of Oxumarê, symbolizing hope, renewal, and the cyclical nature of life. The repeated invocation of 'Arroboboi Oxumarê' is a call for the deity's protection and assistance, emphasizing the deep spiritual connection and reliance on divine forces in times of need. The song beautifully encapsulates the themes of faith, resilience, and the transformative power of nature and spirituality.