Santeria
Definition of Santeria as it relates to Cultures, African Culture, Spirituality
Santeria, also known as Regla de Ocha or La Regla Lucumí, is an Afro-Cuban religion that blends elements from West African Yoruba culture and Roman Catholicism. It is a complex spiritual system based on reverence for ancestors and the worship of deities called Orishas, who serve as intermediaries between humans and God. Practitioners engage in rituals involving drumming, singing, dance, and animal sacrifice to communicate with the Orishas and seek their guidance. Santeria emphasizes moral conduct, personal responsibility, and community service as essential components of spiritual growth and development.