Afoxé de Oxalá

Roberta Nistra's song 'Afoxé de Oxalá' is a profound spiritual invocation that draws heavily from Afro-Brazilian religious traditions, particularly Candomblé. The lyrics are a heartfelt prayer to Oxalá, a major deity in the Candomblé pantheon, often associated with creation, peace, and wisdom. The song opens with a plea for protection and mercy, highlighting the singer's deep reverence and dependence on Oxalá's divine guidance. This sets the tone for a spiritual journey, where the singer seeks solace and strength from a higher power.

The lyrics further describe Oxalá as a multifaceted deity, embodying both the wisdom of the elderly and the vigor of youth. This duality is emphasized through metaphors such as 'the air that feeds the fire' and 'the rain that wets the earth,' illustrating Oxalá's omnipresence and essential role in the natural world. The mention of 'cajado e opaxorô' (staff and scepter) symbolizes authority and leadership, reinforcing Oxalá's position as a guiding force. The singer's request for relief from pain while Oxalá 'pila o pilão' (pounds the pestle) suggests a process of transformation and healing, where suffering is alleviated through divine intervention.

The song also features a 'cortejo funfun,' a white procession, which is significant in Candomblé rituals as white is the color associated with Oxalá. The 'ijexá' rhythm mentioned is a traditional Afro-Brazilian beat, often used in religious ceremonies to invoke deities. The lyrics culminate in a unifying chant, 'Orun ye, Alá, Alá, Orun Alá,' which can be interpreted as a call to the heavens, reinforcing the communal and transcendent nature of the prayer. Through its rich cultural references and spiritual depth, 'Afoxé de Oxalá' serves as both a personal plea and a collective invocation, celebrating the enduring power and presence of Oxalá in the lives of the faithful.