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'''[[Divination]]''' is the attempt to gain insight into a question or situation by way of an [[occult]]ic, standardized process or ritual. Used in various forms throughout history, diviners ascertain their interpretations of how a querent should proceed by reading signs, events, or omens, or through alleged contact with a supernatural agency.
'''[[African diaspora religion]]s''' are a number of related beliefs that developed in the Americas as a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade. These belief systems are derived from traditional African religions mixed with influences from the more widespread organized religions. However, unlike [[Abrahamic religion]]s, African religions are not idealizations; instead, they seek to come to terms with reality.


Divination was a central component of ancient Mesoamerican religious life. Many Aztec gods, including central creator gods, were described as [[Clairvoyance|diviners]] and were closely associated with sorcery. [[Tezcatlipoca]] is the patron of sorcerers and practitioners of [[ritual magic|magic]]. His name means "smoking mirror," a reference to a device used for divinatory [[scrying]]. In the Mayan Popol Vuh, the creator gods Xmucane and Xpiacoc perform divinatory hand casting during the creation of people.
Because there are so many varied African diaspora religions and such diverse groups who contributed to their development, it is difficult to generalize about their beliefs and rituals. Also, none of these religions have a centralized authority who can dictate how devotees worship. Afro-American religions tend to involve ancestor veneration and include a creator deity along with a pantheon of divine spirits such as the Orisha, Loa, Vodun, Nkisi, and Alusi, among others.


Particular divination methods vary by culture and religion.
In addition to the religious syncretism of these traditions, many also incorporate elements of [[Christianity]], including reverence of Catholic [[saint]]s. Other major influences include: Native American religions, [[Spiritualism|Spiritism]], and [[shaman|Shamanism]] (sometimes including the use of [[recreational drug|entheogens]]).


'''([[Divination|Full Article...]])'''
'''([[African diaspora religion|Full Article...]])'''

Revision as of 18:17, 24 March 2025

Maria-Lionza-Ritual.png

African diaspora religions are a number of related beliefs that developed in the Americas as a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade. These belief systems are derived from traditional African religions mixed with influences from the more widespread organized religions. However, unlike Abrahamic religions, African religions are not idealizations; instead, they seek to come to terms with reality.

Because there are so many varied African diaspora religions and such diverse groups who contributed to their development, it is difficult to generalize about their beliefs and rituals. Also, none of these religions have a centralized authority who can dictate how devotees worship. Afro-American religions tend to involve ancestor veneration and include a creator deity along with a pantheon of divine spirits such as the Orisha, Loa, Vodun, Nkisi, and Alusi, among others.

In addition to the religious syncretism of these traditions, many also incorporate elements of Christianity, including reverence of Catholic saints. Other major influences include: Native American religions, Spiritism, and Shamanism (sometimes including the use of entheogens).

(Full Article...)