Clareia o Sol (Pombagira Sete Saias)
Umbanda
The Mystical Dance of Pombagira Sete Saias
The song 'Clareia o Sol (Pombagira Sete Saias)' by Umbanda is a rich tapestry of spiritual and cultural references deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian religious traditions. Umbanda is a syncretic religion that blends African traditions with Catholicism, Spiritism, and Indigenous beliefs. This song specifically invokes the presence of Pombagira Sete Saias, a powerful female spirit in the Umbanda pantheon known for her connection to love, desire, and the material world.
The lyrics repeatedly mention the sun and the moon, symbolizing the balance between day and night, light and darkness, and the cyclical nature of life. The phrase 'São sete noites de luar' (There are seven nights of moonlight) emphasizes the mystical and sacred number seven, which is often associated with spiritual completeness and perfection. The repetition of 'É ela quem vai girar' (She is the one who will spin) suggests a ritualistic dance or movement, a common practice in Umbanda ceremonies where spirits are believed to 'girar' or spin to manifest their presence.
The mention of 'As sete covas se abriram' (The seven graves opened) adds a layer of depth, possibly referring to the opening of spiritual realms or dimensions. This line, coupled with the request for permission to enter ('Peço licença pra entrar'), indicates a respectful approach to the spiritual world, acknowledging the power and presence of Pombagira Sete Saias. The invocation 'Laroyê Exu, Mojubá Exu!' at the end of the song pays homage to Exu, another significant deity in Umbanda, known as the messenger between the human and spiritual worlds. This highlights the interconnectedness of the spiritual entities within the Umbanda tradition, creating a rich, multi-layered spiritual narrative.