HISTORY OF YEWA

Who Is Yewa?

Yewa is a major Orisha who lives within the cemetery, among the graves and the dead — she is responsible for delivering bodies to Oya. She is considered ancient, virgin, and chaste, holding an extremely strict standard for her children: no involvement in matters of the flesh is permitted. In her presence, no one may undress, engage in love affairs, argue, speak loudly, or behave rudely. Her servants are traditionally elder, virgin, or barren women.

Yewa rarely rises during ceremony. When she does, her presence is marked by movements mimicking the wind, or by winding string into a bundle through rotating motions of the arms. She is deeply respected for her oracular power, and her children live under some of the most rigid discipline among all the Orishas. She is particularly venerated in Santiago de Cuba.

Sign, Day, and Colors

In the Diloggún, Yewa always speaks alongside Obba and Yansa (Oya), through Osa (9), Okana (1), and Oyekun. Her number is 11, her day is Friday, and her color is pink.

Attributes

Yewa is represented by an otá stone, a doll, or a small jar (tinajita) — though she is far from being the same as Oshun, despite some surface similarities. She dwells among mother-of-pearl and cowrie shells.

Necklaces and Clothing

Yewa's necklace is strung in pink matipó beads. She is dressed in a pink, belted robe, trimmed with a strip of matching fabric, and wears a crown adorned with many cowrie shells.

Traditional Offerings

Offerings to Yewa include young goats, and owl bones — fitting for one who walks by night — along with doves and guinea fowl.

Herbs for Yewa

Traditional herbs associated with Yewa include marilopé and panetela.

Honor Yewa

Whether you're beginning your path with Yewa or deepening a lifelong devotion, Nelstar Services has provided authentic Santeria and Lucumı́ supplies since 2003. Explore our Caracoles & Piedras collection, or find full guidance in our Orisha Center.