February 2nd is the day of Iemanjá
February 2nd is the day of Iemanjá, and is one of the most important religious festivals for followers of Afro-Brazilian religions, such as Candomblé and Umbanda. The date brings together thousands of believers and supporters who pay homage to the deity known as the Queen of the Sea, protector of fishermen and symbol of fertility, love and generosity.
Rituals and Traditions
The celebrations of Iemanjá Day include the delivery of offerings such as flowers, perfumes, mirrors and jewelry, which are deposited in the sea in decorated boats or left on the beaches. These gifts represent requests for protection, thanks and wishes for prosperity.
Coastal cities, especially Salvador (BA) and Rio de Janeiro (RJ), become centers of celebration, where thousands of people dressed in white or blue participate in processions, songs and dances in praise of the orisha.
The Meaning of Iemanjá
Iemanjá, in the Afro-Brazilian pantheon, is one of the most revered orishas. She is associated with the element water and is considered the mother of all orishas, a symbol of welcome and protection. In many traditions, she is also seen as the patron saint of fishermen, being syncretized with Our Lady of Navigators in popular Catholicism.
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