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Elegua (Yoruba: Èṣù-Ẹlẹ́gbára, also spelled Eleggua; known as Eleguá in Latin America) is an Orisha of roads in the religions of Santeria, Candomble, and in Palo Mayombe. He is syncretized with either Saint Michael, Saint Anthony of Padua, or the Holy Child of Atocha.
Contents
Elegua is sometimes viewed both as an orisha and an Ajogun.
Santeria
Ellegua is depicted in the Yoruba religion of Santeria, which is also known as the Regla de Ocha in Cuba, as the Orisha, or God, of the caminos or roads. All ceremonies/rituals done in the religion of Santeria, must first have approval by Ellegua before progressing.
There is a Pataki, also known as a story in Santeria, in which Olodumare, gives Ellegua the keys to the past, present, and future; for this reason, Ellegua is often depicted holding a set of keys.
In Africa
Ellegua also makes an appearance in the Yoruba religion before the religion of Santeria was formed.
Depictions
Ellegua is usually depicted as a young boy, or in some caminos, an old man. His object of power is the garabato.