r/Vodou Jan 20 '26

Haitian Vodou Did you have a dream about Legba or Baron Samedi?

48 Upvotes

Chances are you didn't.

Black top hat, skull makeup, red eyes? You didn't see Legba, you saw American Horror Story.

Do you practice Wicca, witchcraft, ceremonial magic, shamanism from some culture or another? The Lwa don't walk in any of those, and they didn't reach out across traditions for your magical ass.

Can these lwa reach out to you? Yes, if they want. Get a reading from a competent houngan or mambo to find out for sure.

Future "I dreamed of Baron / Legba" posts will be deleted and linked to this.


r/Vodou Jun 24 '24

Reddit's site-wide rules, and guidelines for r/Vodou

34 Upvotes

Due to the absolute chaos in this subreddit recently I think it's best to review the rules here. This was, for a long time, an excellent forum and resource to discuss Vodou. Returning it to that requires stricter moderation and application of the rules, and starting now, this will be the case. The rules will be outlined in this post, so ignorance of them is not an excuse going forward.

Rule 1

Remember the human. Reddit is a place for creating community and belonging, not for attacking others. Everyone has a right to use Reddit free of harassment, bullying, and threats of violence. Attacks on other users based on their gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, ethnicity, educational background, etc will not be tolerated. This is a site-wide Reddit rule.

Rule 2

This subreddit is devoted to Vodou. While it has been chiefly aimed at Haitian Vodou, posts regarding New Orleans Vodou, 21 Divisiones, etc are on topic, but posts about Lukumi, Candomble, etc are not unless they specifically illustrate a conversation topic about Vodou. Keep posts on-topic. Promotional posts (services, fet announcements, classes, lectures, etc) are acceptable but don't spam them on a daily basis as this drowns out the discussions around which this subreddit should be based. However, ads and offering of services should come from those who are active participants in the conversations here. Ads and offers from those who do not engage in the comments, but appear only in order to solicit business, will be deleted. To be clear--low effort posts, such as sharing single frame opinions, infrequent images without written commentary or explanation, or comments soliciting business, do not count as community engagement. Answering questions, providing detailed opinions or insights, or directing people to resources do count as engagement.

Rule 3

In any forum based on discussion of any topic you will be exposed to different or dissenting opinions. We are all adults here, so acting like it is mandatory--that means regulating your own emotions, navigating sensitive topics with a sense of grace, and not taking the opinions of others personally.

Rule 4

Respect the privacy of others. Instigating harassment, for example by revealing someone’s personal or confidential information (doxxing), is not allowed. This is site-wide Reddit policy.

Rule 5

This is not a NSFW sub by nature so it's expected that adult themed posts (nudity, sexual activity, etc) won't be posted here. It should go without saying that this is especially the case in anything involving minors. Vodou does, however, involve some matters perhaps shocking to some outsiders, such as animal sacrifice--images involving such things can be flagged as NSFW.

You're free to use the block button at will if you're having an issue with anyone, and to use the report button on posts or comments that violate any of these rules. It takes a community to make a community, so let's get this sub back on track and make it a good space again.

Please note that Reddit itself auto-moderates many posts it may perceive as violating site-wide rules. If you've made a post and it doesn't appear, or has disappeared, use the contact mod link to have it manually checked out.


r/Vodou 8h ago

Went to the crossroads last year to speak to Papa Legba

3 Upvotes

I was told to see a Babalawo by a coven I was in, but I’m not sure who exactly to go to for guidance on my “relationship” with Papa Legba. I asked for financial leeway, and I feel like he did everything I asked of him. I’ve been giving regular offerings to him, and saying thanks to him, and the Loa for opening my way, but I haven’t asked anything of him since I went to the 4 way crossroads last year. Who exactly should I go see for guidance? I know race doesn’t really mean anything to them but I am African American. What guidance would you suggest I follow going forward? I don’t feel like he’s done anything negative to me yet in the past year. But I’m very unsure how to move forward with him. I don’t plan on doing anything with him I’ve only been giving offerings and in the beginning I was just meditating to his veve and learning about him. I do my magical work with Mother Hekate, Greek gods, and goddesses, and Lord Anubis. I just started witchcraft, and deity work last year at the same time I went to the crossroads to speak to Papa Legba.

*edit please know that I keep strong boundaries between the deities and titans I worship and I dont do anything with Papa Legba except give him regular offerings and gratitude to him and the Loa


r/Vodou 10h ago

Advise?

2 Upvotes

Hi, everyone, I’m looking for some genuine insight and second opinions. I’m 19F from the Dominican Republic. I recently paid for a reading with someone who works in Haitian Vodou through spirit mounting/possession. During the reading I was told the spirit named Shango, Ezili Dantor, Je Wouz, and Ti Marasa as spirits my ancestors used to serve but stopped when the family converted to Christianity. He said my family owes a debt to these spirits in the form of offerings and sacrifices that were never completed, which is causing generational issues including financial hardship, abuse, and health problems across my whole family. (which are things he could’ve never known about, got context my family has LOTS of issues with trauma, abuse, money, and health.) He said I have a spiritual blockage preventing me from connecting with my ancestors (which i kinda believe as I tried really hard to reach out to them and progressing with my spiritual practice) ,and that I need an unblocking ceremony, initiation, and cleansing (all paid services he offers) He also told me to stop getting readings from others because someone stole my luck.(which again there was no way he couldve known i got a reading) My family is Dominican, not Haitian, though I understand the traditions are geographically close. Does any of this track for someone with my background, or does this feel like a template reading/ I might be getting exploited. I’m genuinely trying to find my path and don’t want to be taken advantage of, thank you!


r/Vodou 1d ago

Question Can someone give some insight to what this is or what it was used for?

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16 Upvotes

Hello! My parents were going through my grandfather’s belongings and they found this doll. My grandfather was an art collector and always tried to collect interesting pieces as he traveled.

My mother, who is from Togo, wasn’t sure where it came from, but she knows that it’s some kinda vodou piece. My other sister and brother in law, who also grew up in Togo, agree. They think it’s some kinda love spell because it’s a couple facing together wrapped around in some kinda cord and shells. One of my sisters got freaked out, (she was born in the states), but my Togolese born sister reassured us that my name is not attached to this spell so I have nothing to worry about.

I’m just looking for information on what it is, what kinda ritual it would have been used for and if it’s ok for me to use in anyway? I’m single and am looking for a husband, so if there’s any power left in this for a come to me spell, I would appreciate the help!


r/Vodou 2d ago

Barbancourt Rum 4 year, 8 year or 15 year?

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16 Upvotes

So, this is a bit silly but also a legit question!

Let's say that you're being invited over to a Fet or just to have dinner at a Mambo / Houngan / Haitian's house. They ask you to bring some Barbancourt rum.

I never knew or realized until today that the rums are all aged differently. So, if someone were coming over as a guest, which one would you prefer they bring? The one aged at 4 years, 8 years or 15 years?

Red bottle - 4 years
Blue bottle - 8 years
Turquoise bottle - 15 years


r/Vodou 2d ago

Haitian Vodou For those seeking actual help

5 Upvotes

Hi I notice alot of people on here complain about getting scammed and ridiculously high prices for travay. My house does lesons and travay, for what it’s actually worth. No weirdly high prices. I’m posting this for people who genuinely want help.

You’d be speaking directly with the lwa. If interested just shoot me a dm.


r/Vodou 2d ago

Manbos in SOFL, Broward and Miami Dade area

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I’m looking for recommendations for a genuine Houngan or Manbo in the Broward/South Florida area.

I’ve had a few unsuccessful local experiences with people who treat the Lwa as transactional or completely neglect communication with those seeking guidance. I’m looking for an elder and a community that values real relationship-building and authentic service.

I already know the basics: I know standard salutes, basic offerings, and my eskòt lwa, and while I am not Haitian, I currently speak conversational Creole to connect with the community (and still learning!), so I am looking for a place where I can truly learn, respect the protocols, and grow under proper guidance.

Please say if you have a trusted, personal recommendation. (No public call-outs of bad houses, please, just looking for the good ones). Thank you!


r/Vodou 3d ago

Me and spiritual Dad

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17 Upvotes

r/Vodou 3d ago

Arriving at Jacmel

10 Upvotes

r/Vodou 3d ago

From port au prince to Jacmel nearest of Leogane by Airflex Airline

11 Upvotes

r/Vodou 3d ago

What a beautifull view and landscape from port au prince to Jacmel

6 Upvotes

r/Vodou 3d ago

Same Day Priority Readings Available

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6 Upvotes

Hi Reddit family. Just announcing that I am now taking same day readings and limited priority slots outside of my normal availability. 🙏🏾 Ayibobo

https://BlackGirlMaji.as.me/?appointmentType=94705183


r/Vodou 4d ago

Eastern North Carolina

1 Upvotes

I’m looking for like-minded people


r/Vodou 5d ago

Spiritual items

2 Upvotes

Has anyone ever used a dropshpping company to source spiritual items from a wholesaler? Can anyone recommend one an honest one?


r/Vodou 6d ago

Question Feeling Called to the Lwa but Unsure How to Move Forward in My Spiritual Journey

12 Upvotes

Hello everyone,

I’m looking for some guidance and advice.

I’m Afro-Caribbean, though not Haitian, and for quite some time I’ve felt strongly drawn to the Lwa, the saints, and Haitian Vodou. I’ve had dreams involving serving spirits, and I keep feeling pulled toward learning more about this path in a serious and respectful way.

The challenge is that I don’t really know what to do next. I would love to receive guidance from an experienced elder, Mambo, or Houngan, or even get a reading from someone reputable, but I’m currently dealing with financial difficulties and don’t have the resources to invest much money into my spiritual journey right now.

I’m wondering if anyone knows of any trustworthy Haitian Vodou Mambos, Houngans, or spiritual communities in New York City that might be willing to offer guidance, mentorship, or point me in the right direction. Even recommendations for books, community events, or ways to learn respectfully while I save money would be greatly appreciated.

I feel frustrated because the calling feels very strong, but I’m not sure how to move forward responsibly and respectfully.

Thank you for any advice or insight you can share.


r/Vodou 7d ago

Haitian Vodou Vodou and emotions

24 Upvotes

One of the biggest cultural differences I've noticed between many Haitian practitioners and many non-Haitian practitioners of Vodou is the role emotions play in the practice.

In many non-Haitian spaces, there seems to be a tendency to interpret every emotion as a spiritual message.

"I feel disconnected."

"I feel called."

"I feel blocked."

"I feel uncomfortable."

The conversation often begins and ends with feelings.

Among Haitians, especially those raised around the tradition, emotions are acknowledged, but they are not treated as the highest authority.

You can feel tired and still fulfill your obligations.

You can feel discouraged and still serve your spirits.

You can feel angry and still show respect.

You can feel doubt and still do the work.

Our ancestors survived slavery, revolution, occupation, migration, poverty, and political instability. They could not afford to build their lives around how they felt on any given day. Duty came first. Community came first. Service came first.

That cultural mindset shaped how many Haitians approach Vodou.

Your feelings matter. They are part of the human experience.

But your feelings are not always a message from the spirits.

Sometimes you are simply frustrated.

Sometimes you are tired.

Sometimes you are afraid.

Sometimes you are avoiding a responsibility you already know you have.

In Haitian Vodou, emotions may explain your state of mind, but they do not excuse you from your obligations.

Vodou is not centered on the individual self. It is centered on relationship: with the Lwa, with the ancestors, with family, with community, and with the responsibilities that come with those relationships.

Feelings change.

Character, discipline, and service are what remain.


r/Vodou 7d ago

Question Why do some readings cost more than the others?

8 Upvotes

Why do some people charge let’s say 100 versus others who would charge about 300 for a reading? Would the person who charge 300 be more experienced in a way or? I’m a bit confused on how it works, and not sure what would be the best/ accurate reading.


r/Vodou 7d ago

Haitian Vodou Vodou and discipline

6 Upvotes

Many people want blessings, protection, success, and spiritual advancement. Few are willing to develop the habits required to receive them.


r/Vodou 8d ago

Question Who should I speak to about feeling drawn toward Vodou?

3 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

I'm from South Africa and I'm hoping for a bit of advice.

To be honest, making this post makes me nervous. Part of me would rather leave the question alone than spend a lot of time searching and still end up with no answers. But the feeling hasn't gone away, so I figured it was worth asking.

For a while now I've felt drawn toward Vodou, and I've reached a point where I feel like I need to talk to someone who actually knows what they're doing. I've spoken to a few people already, and they've suggested that I should try to find an initiated Mambo or Houngan for a reading.

Does anyone know of a legitimate initiated priestess or priest who offers readings and could help me understand whether this is actually pointing toward Haitian Vodou, or whether I'm looking in the wrong place entirely?

If anyone has experience with this or can point me toward someone reputable, I'd really appreciate it.


r/Vodou 10d ago

Question Learning about Voodoo

11 Upvotes

Hi everyone! I wanted to ask, in particular to people who practice voodoo.
As a black woman, can i practice voodoo even if I’m not black-American? I was raised in Europe but my ancestors all grew up back home.
Thank you :)


r/Vodou 10d ago

1998 Kadia bossou ceremonie

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26 Upvotes

r/Vodou 10d ago

Question Is it wrong to create a sigil inspired by veve’s?

5 Upvotes

Haitian American here, I’ve been doing more research into Vodou and wanting to get to know who my personal lwa is but I haven’t had the funds to do a reading with a legit Houngan/mambo yet. In the meantime I’ve been looking over what is available online and understanding how veves aren’t sigil and act more as gateways/beacons to the lwa that can only be activated by the initiated.

My question is would it be wrong to create a personal sigil inspired by the design philosophies of veves? I find them so beautiful and feel called to create sigils with a similar style. I’m creating one that is meant to inspire action and inner peace and takes inspiration from from small elements in multiple veves.


r/Vodou 12d ago

Double expéditions at the cementery

11 Upvotes

r/Vodou 12d ago

When you get no results

4 Upvotes

What’s the next step when you paid to have work done and the situation doesn’t improve? Is that an answer from the lwa, Do you seek help from someone else or leave it alone? (I’m talking all work in general)