Oxossi Sao Sebastiao

The song 'Oxossi Sao Sebastiao' by Umbanda is a rich tapestry of spiritual and cultural references deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian traditions. The lyrics transport the listener to the heart of the forest, where two names are carved into a tree stump: Mata Virgem and Cobra Coral. These names are not just random; they represent powerful spiritual entities or 'caboclos' in the Umbanda religion, which is a syncretic Brazilian religion that blends African traditions with Catholicism, Spiritism, and Indigenous beliefs.

Oxossi is a significant figure in Umbanda, often associated with the forest, hunting, and abundance. He is a protector of nature and a provider for his people. The mention of 'Mata Virgem' (Virgin Forest) and 'Cobra Coral' (Coral Snake) symbolizes the untouched, pristine nature and the mystical, protective forces within it. The forest is a sacred space where these spiritual entities reside and communicate, often in the Tupi-Guarani language, which is a nod to the Indigenous roots of these beliefs.

The song's imagery of the forest and the caboclos speaking in Tupi-Guarani highlights the deep connection between the natural world and the spiritual realm in Umbanda. It emphasizes the importance of preserving nature and respecting the spiritual entities that inhabit it. The use of the Tupi-Guarani language also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and the blending of different traditions that form the foundation of Umbanda. This song is a celebration of the spiritual guardians of the forest and a call to honor and protect the natural world they inhabit.