THE SACREDNESS OF THE VOICE: THE POWER AND FORCE OF LANGUAGE IN UMBANDA TERREIROS

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.5585112523074

• Palavras-chave: Sacredness; Language; Afro-Brazilian religion; Spirituality.

• Keywords: Sacredness; Language; Afro-Brazilian religion; Spirituality.

• Abstract:

  The sacredness of the voice and the power of language in Umbanda terreiros reveal the connection between practitioners and the spiritual world. Umbanda, an Afro-Brazilian religion, values oral tradition through chants and prayers, which are essential for invoking spiritual entities. This study analyzes the role of voice and language in Umbanda terreiros, discussing the importance of chants and prayers in rituals and how these practices structure religious experiences. The research highlights that voice and language in terreiros are crucial for invoking spirits and creating a sacred atmosphere. The chants, elaborated for specific functions, act as mantras that mobilize forces of nature and facilitate the incorporation of entities. Oral tradition, through musicality and chants, guarantees the transmission of knowledge and the continuity of religious practice, allowing for a constant renewal of the connection with the divine. The conclusion is that voice and language are transformative and vital elements for spirituality in Umbanda.