Shango: Powerful Thunder God And Symbol Of Kingship Among Yoruba People Of West Africa

A. Sutherland - AncientPages.com - In Yoruba mythology, kingship and weather are closely linked. According to their myths and legends, Shango, the greatest warrior-king, became the god of thunder, lightning, and storms after he died.

Among the Yoruba, he is generally known as an ancient king of Oyo and as the grandson of Oduduwa, who is also revered today as the hero, warrior, leader, and father of the Yoruba race.

Image credit: Cliff1066 - CC BY 2.0 and figure of Shango on Horseback, by Yoruba carver Toibo. Image credit: CC BY 3.0

Shango – Most Powerful Nature God

In Yoruba belief, Shango is the most powerful nature god. He is still celebrated in certain parts of the world. Shango has followers and priests responsible for burying anyone killed by lightning. They may also inspect a property struck by lightning to locate the lightning strike.

His sanctuaries are decorated with statues of women, mothers, and children. Shango has sole control over the thunder and presides at births. His followers believe he advocates justice. His anger reaches everyone who offends him.

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See also: 

Obatala ‘King Of The White Cloth’ And Creation Story Of Yoruba People

Golden Stool Of Ashanti People And Legend Of The Black Cloud Appearing In The Sky

Eshu The Trickster: Mischievous Mediator Between Heaven And Earth In Beliefs Of Yoruba People

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