Salve As Folhas (feat. Sandra de Sá)
Maria Bethânia
The Spiritual Essence of Nature in 'Salve As Folhas'
The song 'Salve As Folhas (feat. Sandra de Sá)' by Maria Bethânia is a tribute to the spiritual and essential role that nature, specifically leaves, play in our lives and dreams. The lyrics emphasize the importance of leaves by repeating the phrase 'Sem folha não tem...' which translates to 'Without leaves, there is no...' followed by words like 'dream,' 'life,' 'party,' and 'nothing.' This repetition serves to underscore the belief that leaves are fundamental to existence and celebration, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all life.
The character mentioned in the song, Aroni, is a reference to a figure in Candomblé, an Afro-Brazilian religion. Aroni is a mystical being that dwells in the forest and is the guardian of leaves, which are crucial in the practice of Candomblé for their use in rituals and as a medium for spiritual energy. By identifying with Aroni, the singer expresses a deep connection with the spiritual essence of nature and the power it holds.
The chant 'Cosi euê, Cosi orixá, Euê ô, Euê ô orixá' is a call to the orixás, the deities of Candomblé. This chant further reinforces the song's spiritual context and the reverence for nature as a divine creation. The song, through its lyrics and references to Afro-Brazilian spirituality, invites listeners to recognize and respect the sacredness of nature, and to consider the profound impact it has on our lives and cultural practices.