Yoruba Myths

In fluent narratives, José Beniste presents legends that clarify the complex mythical universe of Candomblé.

Yoruba Myths is another work by the author renowned for the quality of his research and works on Afro-Brazilian Religious Culture (such as The Waters of Oxalá, Jogo de Búzios, and Órun-Àiyé: O Encontro de Dois Mundos). It features 34 stories, accompanied by explanatory notes at the end of each story, which address life examples, ethical guidelines, and power struggles, and features characters from the various Orishas of the African pantheon.

Beniste explains in detail why: Erinlé only dresses in leather; the settlements of Omolu and Exu must remain in time, that is, outside, in the open air, unlike other Orishas, who require a "house" of their own to be revered; the lamb is Xango's votive food, but is repelled by Yansam. The myths also clarify how the Earth was created and why Oxalá received this title; they explain the importance and danger of Iya mi Oxoronga and the Egungun cult; they decipher the full story of Xango and his dispute with Ogum for Oya's love; they reveal the reason for Exu's obligation to oversee the axés, provoke Orunmila, and create conflicts between Yemanjá, Oxum, and Yansam.

With Yoruba Myths , José Beniste offers readers delightful and enchanting stories, with his unique didactic style, which follows the line of publications that strive for clarity and fluency. This has made the author quite prominent in religious circles as an upstanding participant and highly regarded researcher of Candomblé.