Preceito

Toninho Geraes' song 'Preceito' delves into the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of Afro-Brazilian religions, particularly Candomblé. The term 'preceito' itself refers to a precept or a rule, often of a religious nature, that must be respected and followed. The song opens with a warning to 'Malungo,' a term that can mean a close friend or companion, to heed the 'barra-vento,' a type of wind or spiritual force, and the sound of 'aguerê,' a rhythm associated with the orixás, or deities. This sets the stage for a narrative about the importance of respecting spiritual foundations and traditions.

The lyrics emphasize the consequences of not respecting these sacred traditions. The line 'A força do preceito lhe pegou' suggests that the power of the precept has caught up with the person who failed to honor it. This is further illustrated by the mention of 'mironga,' a term that refers to secret knowledge or magic within Afro-Brazilian spiritual practices. The song warns that one must be knowledgeable and respectful when dealing with such sacred matters.

The song also touches on the specific rituals and offerings in Candomblé. The lyrics mention the preparation of food for the orixás, highlighting the importance of knowing how to properly prepare these offerings. The mistake of giving 'dendê' (palm oil) to Oxalá, a deity who is traditionally offered white foods, and placing white food at the 'peji de beira-mar' (a sacred space by the sea) are cited as errors that have serious spiritual repercussions. The song concludes with a lesson learned the hard way, emphasizing that these mistakes are not to be repeated.

Toninho Geraes uses 'Preceito' to convey a deep respect for the traditions and rituals of Candomblé, illustrating the importance of knowledge, respect, and adherence to spiritual precepts. The song serves as both a cautionary tale and a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Afro-Brazilian spirituality.