SHAKPANAAlso known as SHANKPANA, SOPONNA, SHONPONNO
Plague God of Smallpox and Insanity
He is mad, bad, and dangerous to know. The son of YEMAYA, he's one of the ORISHAS, but not a very nice one to be on the wrong side of. An old hobbling figure, he is responsible for inflicting smallpox and madness. Not at the same time. We think. Of course if you really piss him off, there's no telling what he might do.
And whatever you do, avoid sesame seeds — these are cursed with his disease-ridden spirit. Yes, sesame seeds. Why do you think they look just like smallpox spots? If you bring sesame seeds into your house you are doomed. What a terrible plight for the inhabitants of Sesame Street.There does not seem to be a cure for him. All we can advise is to consult his Orisha associate Dr BABALU-AYE who may be able to perform a sesameseedectomy.
Historical update: In 1979 the World Health Organization declared that smallpox had been totally eradicated from this planet. Little do they know that SHAKPANA is working on a brand new version called largepox. He has already been blamed for the creation of AIDS, and he's not one to be discouraged — his madness department has never been busier.
Authors: Peter J Allen and Chas Saunders
References: Coming soon.
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Godchecker's article on Shakpana is based on material from ancient texts, original references and our own research. We strive for accuracy and update regularly with new information. If you spot a mistake please contact us and we'll try to fix it.
Area or people : Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin
Location : Africa
Gender : Male
Type : Deity
Celebration or Feast Day : Unknown at present
Good/Evil Rating : BAD, best avoided
Pronunciation : Coming soon
Alternative names : SHANKPANA, SOPONNA, SHONPONNO
Popularity index : 579
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