Yemọja

/yeh-moh-JAH/

Definition

The mother of the Òrìṣà, patron of the Ogun river, and embodiment of maternal care, fertility, and the nurturing aspects of water.

Mother of All

Her name literally translates to 'Mother whose children are like fish.' Yemọja is fiercely protective, infinitely nurturing, and represents the sustaining power of life. Many Òrìṣà are considered her children.

Associations

Associated with rivers in Yorùbáland (and later synchronized with the ocean in the diaspora), she governs mysteries, childbirth, and profound emotional depth. Where there is water, there is life, overseen by Yemọja.

Topics

deitymaternalwater

Related Terms

Òrìṣà

Deities & Spirits

Divine emissaries and forces of nature that intermediate between Olódùmarè and humanity, governing specific domains of the cosmos and human experience.

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Yorùbá Version Available

Yemọja

Iyaa àwọn Òrìṣà pọ̀ jùlọ; tí a mọ si obìnrin to mọ́wó odo Ọgùn pẹ̀lú irú ikẹ àwárí bíyán gbé omọ àti alaabo wó omi.

Ẹ ka ní Yorùbá →

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