Elegua Tribute

The Orisha Elegua is the gatekeeper between heaven and earth.

Elegua represents the beginning and end of life, and, the opening and closing of paths in life.  A powerful warrior saint, Elegua must always be paid tribute before and after any ceremony or celebration, since he is the divine messenger for all of the Orishas and the medium between the physical and spiritual realms. 

Elegua’s colors are red and black. His number is 3, or any multiple of 3. His day of the week is Monday, and the 3rd day of every month.  Traditionally, the 6th of January and the 13th of June are recognized as his “saint’s days” in Cuba. On these days, a feast may be given in his honor.  In Cuba, Elegua is syncretized with the following Catholic Saints: The Holy Child of Atocha.  Elegua is very close with Ochún (The Virgin of Charity – The Patron Saint of Cuba), they are considered very good friends.

 

ORACION A ELEGUA

Dime Echú de los caminos
Elegguá pequeño Santo
tú me abres los caminos,
se lo cierras a los contrarios.
Traigo oñí para endulzarte
maíz seco y bien tostado,
epó para envadurnarte
y todo lo de tu agrado.
Como ardimú te daré,
carritos, trompos y dados.
Toda clase de juguetes,
caballitos y soldados.
Elegguá de la manigua
escondido en un guayabo
contestame con el coco,
si te pongo un garabato.
Yo te cubriré de plumas.
No me cubras tú de llanto.
Elegguá grande y chiquito
te pago con tres centavos.
Salve a mi niño de Atocha,
salve al San Benito Amado,
que viva el ánima sola y los
egguns venerados.