Created from cowrie shells and seed beads, the Macuto is an amulet prepared for the Orisha, a spirit or deity in the Santeria or Yoruba system of beliefs. Generally representing the colors of this Orisha. Take the love, power and protection of your Orisha with you, so you may walk with the Guidance of your Orisha in every footstep. When not carried with you make sure to keep it in on your altar where it will be fed when you are not using it. May feed with Power Waters or colognes or an Offering. These amulets are designed to be carried and not worn. Each amulet is hand made and therefore varies slightly.
Obatala is the elder of the Orishas, the owner of the white cloth, the king of peace and logic. He encourages us to use diplomacy and reason when acting and is often the Orisha who mediates disputes between the other Orishas. He encourages us to be patient and to handle matters with calm and reason. Obatala is actually an androgynous Orishas where half of his avatars are male and the other half are female. His shrine is placed higher than the other Orishas shrines out of respect for his statue as their elder. He is often depicted as an elderly black man with chalk white hair dressed in white robes. Obatala’s color is white. His number is 8.
Obatala Prayer: “Obatala please guide and protect me. Open the doors of opportunity by removing obstacles from my path. Give me courage to overcome my problems and defeat my enemies. Bring justice and balance to my life by bestowing your wisdom upon me. With your powers please give me the strength to fight and win my daily battles. I am ready for your winds of change that bring prosperity to my realm. AMEN.”
Orishas are spiritual beings who have been tasked with maintaining this Earth, watching over the affairs of humanity and each has dominion over a portion of nature. Each Orisha is identified with natural forces as well as with human interests or endeavors. These Orishas are mediators between humanity and the Supreme Being.
Pray to Orishas because they are already in heaven, and they can intercede for you. In moments of anxiety, you need to hope and believe in something that helps you recover faith and maintain peace in your life.
Approximate size is 1-1/8 inches tall (29mm) and 23mm wide (~7/8 inches) from cowrie to cowrie.
