SanterÃa is an Afro-Caribbean religion that emerged from the syncretic blending of West African religions brought to the Americas during slavery. It is based on the belief that all humans are divine beings who have been given power to create their own reality through ritual and sacrifice. One central practice is divination, which involves using objects like bones, shells, stones, and coconuts to determine future outcomes for individuals. SanterÃa's cosmology also includes deities like Chango, Yemayá, and Oshun, who represent different aspects of nature and human life. Despite its emphasis on autonomy, individualism, and self-determination, it shares many similarities with other religions such as Christianity and Islam.
Both Christianity and Islam place restrictions on sexual behavior, particularly homosexuality and premarital sex. In contrast, Santeria recognizes same-sex relationships, while encouraging polyamory and open marriages. As such, Santeria challenges inherited sexual guilt from other religious traditions by promoting free expression of sexual desire within limits set by the community.
Insert image of Santeria practitioners conducting a ceremony
The practice of divination in SanterÃa is rooted in ancestral knowledge of how spiritual forces operate in the natural world. Practitioners believe that they can connect with these forces and use them to heal, protect, and manifest desires. This practice has allowed many LGBTQ+ people to find acceptance in their communities, despite the prejudice and discrimination they face outside of it. In addition, Santeria encourages couples to form nontraditional relationships and engage in multiple partnerships, without fear of judgment or retribution.
There are still taboos against certain types of relationships, such as incest and bestiality. These rules reflect the communal values of SanterÃa, which prioritize stability and continuity over personal freedom.
Santeria challenges inherited sexual guilt from other religious traditions by providing an alternative framework for understanding and expressing sexuality.
How does SanterÃa challenge inherited sexual guilt from other religious traditions?
According to scholarly research, most religions tend to promote traditional gender roles and norms regarding sexuality, which may lead to feelings of guilt related to sexual behavior that is considered deviant from these standards. In Santeria, however, there are no strict rules governing sexual conduct or relationships.