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Monday, June 21, 2010

SARAVÁ PRETO VELHO PAI GUINÉ



Pai Guiné is a preto velho ("old black man") spirit of the Afro-Brazilian tradition of Umbanda:

Preto Velhos are spirits of old slaves who died in captivity or after being beaten or flogged by their masters. They are wise, peaceful and kind spirits that know all about suffering, compassion, forgiveness and hope. They also often prescribe herbal remedies. The female counterpart of this spirit is the Preta Velha ("old black woman") who demonstrates maternal compassion and concern.

In Umbanda, "Saravá" is used as a greeting possessing the sense of "Save your strength!" It acknowledges the force of God and Nature that are within the person, as does the Indian mantra "namaste", which means the God that is within me salutes the God that is within you.

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