Pombagira | |
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A representation of Pomba Gira | |
Pombagira are human spirits that are in a degree next to Exu and act mainly in the heart and in the mind of those who are in a way to allow it to be imprisoned in their own torments. Pombagira isn’t consort of Exu, she is another group of human spirit that suffered its fall, redeemed and works in the darkness of light in the pursuit of its evolution in the aid of the human beings incarnate. | |
Venerated in | Umbanda, Quimbanda |
Patronage | Love, Freedom, Empowerment, Feminine energy, desire, fire. |
Pombajira is the name of an Afro-Brazilian spirit evoked by practitioners of Umbanda and Quimbanda in Brazil.[1][2] She is the consort of Exu, who is the messenger of the Orixas in Candomblé. Known by many names, or avatars, Pombajira is often associated with the number seven, crossroads, graveyards, spirit possession, and witchcraft.
While Exu represents male sexuality, fertility and strength, Pombajira personifies female sexuality, beauty and desire.[3] She is depicted as a beautiful woman who is insatiable. Pombajira is venerated with great respect and care because of her reputation for possessing great wrath. She is often invoked by those who seek aid in matters of the heart and love.[4]
Pombajira is noted for her connection with both transgender women and effeminate male worshippers and is reputed to possess both.[5] [6] Some representations of Pombajira display the characteristics of being promiscuous, talkative and vulgar. However she has many avatars, and will be more or less inclined towards that behavior depending on how she manifests herself.
Pombajira manifests in the following forms: