Sacrificial Ceremonies of Santería

“The Lucumi faith - better known to non-initiates as ‘Santería’ - has been one of the most misunderstood and maligned subjects in Western history. The good news is that this is finally changing. The importance of Sacrificial Ceremonies of Santería cannot be overstated. For those inside the religion, it will doubtlessly be a useful textbook - containing not only the sacrificial rituals, but also information on the Orishas. For those outside the religion, this book is an absolute must-read! You will find here secrets never before revealed to the outside world. But, more importantly, you will find a detailed history of the origins of the Lucumi faith, the rise of ‘Santería’ in Cuba and its further migration into the U.S. and beyond. And, best of all, you will finally learn the true meanings and motivations behind the often-demonized practice of animal sacrifice. You don't have to practice it, nor even agree with it, to come to a better understanding of a religious mystery that has such profound and moving significance for those in the Lucumi faith. Ócha’ni Lele has provided us with yet another magnum opus in his ever-growing library of Lucumi textbooks, instruction manuals and mystical explorations. If you study religious movements here in the West, you simply cannot ignore this book.”

“…very useful to students of religion, history, and folklore, as well as general readers eager to know more about this complex religion. It will be a welcome addition to academic and public libraries.”

“This book is an important work that can dispel the fears and false assumptions about animal sacrifice held by the general public and he chronicles in great detail the struggle for Santería to be recognized as a legitimate religion by the Supreme Court. Practioners of the Yoruba, Santería, Candomble, and Lucumi traditions will better understand their common origins and practices after reading this book; and it will serve as a text for the thousands of initiates in priestly training. This book is fully researched, the information is balanced and integrated, and his writing voice is clear, humble, and humorous. It is an excellent delineation of the deeper meanings secured within the sacred Orature of the tradition.”

“Lele offers every reader insight into ceremonial sacrifice by opening the door to a secret world of the Santeros. He challenges us to both understand and practice authentic sacrifices through ritual and accomplishes a rapport with the reader right from the start. Lele shows how nothing is wasted in a life that includes spiritual sacrifice. And Lele wastes nothing in this beautiful, intelligent and researched presentation of the sacrificial ceremonies of the Santeros. This book brought me a deeper appreciation for the necessary sacrifices in my own spiritual practice and for the unique heritage of his Lucimi faith. A book I would highly recommend for anthropologists and spiritual seekers who want an in-depth look into this remarkable ceremony.”

“Written in equal parts journalistic/academic style and personal account, Lele gives clear historical and political context for the development of Santeria and explains how ancestor worship factors into animal sacrifice. The account is thorough and gives the Santeran side of conflicts over sacrificial practices. He even digs into Santeran folklore, providing a complete context for these practices...Highly recommended.”

“Finally we have an author willing to serve up the spiritual beauty of ancient Africa at the table of the modern world. Clearly, there is a legacy beginning to unfold.”