Escrevi Um Pedido Na Areia
Umbanda
A Spiritual Plea to the Ocean's Embrace
The song 'Escrevi Um Pedido Na Areia' by Umbanda is a heartfelt spiritual plea that delves into themes of faith, trust, and divine intervention. The lyrics are a tribute to Iemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, who is revered in the Umbanda religion. The singer expresses a deep connection to the ocean, symbolized by Iemanjá, and finds solace and hope in her presence. The repeated act of writing a plea in the sand signifies a ritualistic approach to seeking help and guidance from the divine.
The song's imagery of the ocean waves and the infinite horizon serves as a metaphor for life's challenges and the boundless possibilities of spiritual support. The singer's request to Zambi, another name for God in the Afro-Brazilian religious context, highlights the syncretism in Umbanda, where African deities are often intertwined with Christian elements. However, it is Iemanjá, the 'mãe d'água' or 'mother of water,' who ultimately answers the plea, emphasizing her nurturing and protective nature.
The lyrics also convey a message of resilience and the importance of maintaining faith during difficult times. The singer learns that 'todo mal não dura para sempre' (all evil does not last forever) and that peace is a seed that needs to be sown. This reflects a broader spiritual teaching about the transient nature of suffering and the enduring power of hope and faith. By opening their heart to Iemanjá and entrusting their path to her, the singer finds a more beautiful and fulfilling world, symbolizing the transformative power of spiritual belief and the comfort found in divine connection.