How Do You Do the Voodoo That you Do?

 

  

The people of Benin do not believe their religion is a dark mystical force, its simply a legitimate religion (a 'normal' religion).  It even has it's own Pope that apparently drives around the streets in his SUV.  Voodoo has strong religious beliefs and traditions that embrace a way of life including how to raise children, a notion of what education means and an awareness of politics.  The religion appears to evolved from ancient traditions of ancestor worship and animism.  Once banned, Voodoo is now officially recognized as a religion in Benin.  National Voodoo Day in Benin is Jan 10th :).Voodoo is widely regarded as a mysterious and sinister  practice that is taboo in many cultures.  It conjures images of bloody animal sacrifices, sticking dolls with pins, possessed dancers in drum circles and evil zombies.  Apparently there are many misconceptions about the religion :). Voodoo (aka Voudon) is a complex relgion and much more than this blog can handle.  Like most religions it seems to have some problems with corruption and yes,  the do sacrifice animals, however they honor them as well.  So much to learn about the people we share life with on this planet.

The temple of Pythons

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