And lit again! Now the machete is passed repeatedly back and forth through the glowing blue and bursting yellow flames.
back and forth
The music and dance continued, strengthening all the time, while the chanting continued to invite the Loa into our presence. When a Loa has actually arrived, He or She will begin to take possession of one of the members, so the priesthood is very attuned to any tell-tale signs that this is happening. The Loa are also called the Divine Horsemen, because they "ride" those chosen.
This woman is showing growing signs of possession, whether you believe this is an internal psychological event or an external spirit possession. She has already had several fainting spells.
Yes, she is the one, and the sombrero and red scarves are secured to her. Red has its own potent symbolism in Vodou.
She is transforming in character before our very eyes.
She is handed a cigar, a favorite implement of the Loa in Vodou, with its intoxicating tobacco.
I don't know which Loa has possessed her, but she has now passed through the Crossroads and is in touch with the Divine. All the members now line up to receive her blessings.
She blesses each individual, one by one, advising, even lovingly scolding some of them for infractions. She blesses all three of us as well.
Another blessing.
Now, after the blessings, the ceremony turns to more frenzied dance, more free form, with more chanting of course.
The woman in the black dress with white trim truly danced with abandon.
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