Exú Não Brinca, Exú Não É de Brincadeira

The song 'Exú Não Brinca, Exú Não É de Brincadeira' by Umbanda delves into the profound and serious nature of Exú, a significant deity in Afro-Brazilian religions such as Umbanda and Candomblé. The repetition of the phrase 'Exú não brinca, Exú não é de brincadeira' emphasizes that Exú is not to be taken lightly. This deity is often misunderstood due to his association with crossroads, communication, and the material world, but the song underscores his importance and the respect he commands.

The lyrics describe a scenario where a banana tree is planted at eleven o'clock, bears fruit at midnight, but the bananas do not ripen, leading Exú to uproot the tree. This metaphorical narrative illustrates Exú's role in overseeing the natural order and ensuring that things progress as they should. If something is not right or does not fulfill its purpose, Exú intervenes decisively. This action reflects his authority and the idea that he maintains balance and order, even if it means taking drastic measures.

Culturally, the song serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted beliefs in the power and presence of Exú within the Umbanda tradition. It highlights the respect and reverence practitioners must have for this deity, acknowledging his influence over both the spiritual and physical realms. The song's repetitive structure and simple yet powerful lyrics make it a potent chant, reinforcing the message that Exú's role is crucial and not to be underestimated.