POMBAGIRA
neutralSeduction, vengeance, freedom, femininity
Pombagira, also written Pomba Gira, is a feminine entity of the Afro-Brazilian religions Umbanda and Quimbanda. Her name, of Kimbundu origin, is often linked to the idea of the crossroads, and her figure is knotted around Exu, of whom she is the feminine counterpart. Where Exu embodies virility, force and fertility, Pombagira personifies feminine sexuality, beauty and desire. She is frequently described as the spirit of deceased women, sometimes marginalised in their lifetime, and she is invoked in matters of the heart, of seduction and of personal power. She manifests through trance during the ceremonies and unfolds into many named figures, such as Maria Padilha or the Rainha do Cemitério. She is associated with crossroads, cemeteries and the number seven. Her roots mingle European currents, the pan-African figure of Iyami Osoronga and the Kongo and Yoruba inheritance bound to Exu.
Powers & Attributes
Role in the ROHO universe
A reflection of the Fire of free will, keeper of women's choices.
Sacred Mask
A red and black mask with golden lips — a symbol of sensuality, power and independence.
Era
1800–2000 — Cycle of Shadows and Desires
Spiritual Lesson
To learn to respect the freedom of souls and not to judge passion.
Words of the Spirit
“Lightning does not strike at random.”
Frequently asked questions
Who is Pombagira?
A feminine entity of Umbanda and Quimbanda, the feminine counterpart of Exu, bound to sexuality, beauty and desire.
How is she honoured?
Through trance and possession during the ceremonies. She is often called upon in matters of love and self-assertion.
Where does she come from?
From the meeting, in Brazil, of European, Yoruba and Kongo influences around the figure of Exu. She unfolds into many figures, such as Maria Padilha.
Related spirits
Sources and references
- Wikipedia, article Pomba Gira
- World Religions and Spirituality Project (WRSP), notice Pombagira