Lukumi: meaning, definitions and examples
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Lukumi
[ luːˈkuːmi ]
religious practice
Lukumi refers to a religious tradition that originates from the Yoruba people of Nigeria and has been practiced in various forms in the Americas, particularly within the Santería and Candomblé religions. It encompasses a set of beliefs, rituals, and practices that revolve around the worship of Orishas, which are deities that govern various aspects of the world.
Examples of usage
- The Lukumi community celebrates their festivals with vibrant dances.
- She was initiated into the Lukumi tradition after years of study.
- Lukumi rituals often involve offerings to the Orishas.
- The teachings of Lukumi emphasize the importance of ancestors.
Etymology
The term 'Lukumi' is derived from the Yoruba language, which is spoken by the Yoruba people of West Africa, particularly Nigeria. The Yoruba religious and cultural practices were brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans during the transatlantic slave trade. In the New World, particularly in Cuba, these indigenous beliefs blended with elements of Catholicism and other African traditions, giving rise to the syncretic religions such as Santería and Candomblé. The word 'Lukumi' itself means 'friend' or 'brother' in Yoruba, reflecting the communal and familial aspects of the traditions, as practitioners seek to build relationships both within the community and with the divine. As these practices migrated and evolved, the Lukumi tradition maintained a focus on spiritual connection, ritualistic expression, and the community’s ancestral ties.