E Lá Na Mata Eu Vi

The song "E Lá Na Mata Eu Vi" by Umbanda is a rich tapestry of spiritual and cultural references, deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian traditions. The lyrics describe a mystical encounter in the forest, a place often associated with spiritual significance and natural beauty. The forest, or 'mata,' serves as a sacred space where the protagonist witnesses a hunter from Jurema, a reference to a spiritual practice involving the use of the Jurema tree, known for its hallucinogenic properties and its role in indigenous and Afro-Brazilian rituals.

The hunter is identified as 'seu Cobra Coral,' a figure that likely symbolizes a spiritual entity or guide. In Umbanda, a Brazilian religion that blends African traditions with Catholicism, Spiritism, and Indigenous beliefs, entities like Cobra Coral are often revered as protectors and guides. The hunter's tools, a feathered slingshot ('bodoque de pena'), symbolize a connection to nature and traditional ways of life. These elements highlight the importance of maintaining a harmonious relationship with the natural world and the spiritual realm.

The song emphasizes the hunter's motto: 'Amor e benevolência' (Love and benevolence). This message underscores the core values of Umbanda, which include compassion, kindness, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. The hunter's presence in the forest and his dedication to these principles serve as a reminder of the virtues that guide the followers of this spiritual path. Through its vivid imagery and profound message, the song invites listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys and the values that guide them.