Yoruba Mythology

The Gods of Yorubaland (Nigeria, Benin and Togo)

YEMAYA

Yoruba Childbirth Goddess

Also known as Iamanjie, Yemanja, Yemayah, Yembo, Yemoja, Yemonja, Yemowo

The Mother of Water and Childbirth

Her stylish blue and crystal skirts billow in wave-like motions. One of the Orishas, she is a sensuous, slow-moving figure, just like the water she represents. Very calm and soothing for birthing situations. But she has a curious aversion to salt — so she will float over the ocean but not in it.

Yemaya is also a Moon Goddess and the number seven has special significance for her.

We don’t like to gossip, but her husband Obatala has a shady past — he created mankind under less than reputable circumstances. Still, that’s all water under the bridge now.

Yemaya Facts and Figures

Name: Yemaya
Pronunciation: Coming soon
Alternative names: Iamanjie, Yemanja, Yemayah, Yembo, Yemoja, Yemonja, Yemowo

Gender: Female
Type: Goddess
Area or people: Yoruba people of Nigeria and Benin
Celebration or Feast Day: Unknown at present

Role:
In charge of: Birth
Area of expertise: Childbirth

Good/Evil Rating: GOOD, quite approachable
Popularity index: 33680

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Article last revised on May 19, 2019 by Rowan Allen.
Editors: Peter J. Allen, Chas Saunders

References: Coming soon.

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